With an ever-increasing number of watch brands to choose from, finding a watch that fits right can be daunting – especially if you buy it online. Fortunately, there is a trick to finding the right-sized watch for you. Read on to find out how.
Why do measurements matter? The importance of a proper fit
Whether you wear a watch for function or style (or both), you want it to fit comfortably on your wrist so you’re eager to put it on every day. A loose-fitting watch can be annoying and may convey a careless look, not to mention it can make the watch more susceptible to hard knicks, knocks and costly repairs. Conversely, a too snug watch may leave indentations on your skin and be downright uncomfortable to wear. So, how do you find the sweet spot? It ultimately comes down to your personal style and comfort level, but certain key measurements can serve as a helpful guide.
How to measure your wrist for a watch – what you’ll need
Before rolling up your sleeves and measuring, you must first decide what hand you want to wear your watch on. Believe it or not, your wrists may not be the same size. Then, gather a few basic everyday household tools:
- soft, flexible tape measure (the one that looks like a ribbon, probably buried in your junk drawer)
- piece of string and a ruler
- pen or pencil (to record your measurements)
Tip: If measuring in centimeters, note that 1 cm=10 mm. If measuring in inches, 1 in=25 mm.
Wrist measuring techniques
Here are four easy ways to measure your wrist:
- Soft tape measure
- Turn your hand over with your palm facing upward and fingers gently outstretched.
- Place the end of the measuring tape on the part of your wrist where your watch will sit (on, above or below the wrist bone) and wrap the rest of the tape around to meet it. Pull at a comfortable tension – not too tight or too loose.
- Take note of the measurement in inches or centimeters where the two ends overlap, as this is the circumference of your wrist.
Piece of string and a ruler
Don’t have a measuring tape? No problem! Just grab a piece of string, a ruler, and a pen.
- With your palm facing upwards, wrap the string around your wrist as you would put on a watch.
- Mark where the two ends overlap.
- Lay the string on a flat surface and use a ruler to measure the length up to the mark to get the circumference of your wrist.
Printable wrist size
Another way to measure your wrist size is by using Jewelers Mutual’s printable watch strap sizing guide. Download, print and cut out the wrist sizer. Ensure you print the page at 100% scale and set the page scaling to "none" in the print dialog box.
- Turn your hand over, palm face up and wrap the sizer around your wrist (numbers facing you) like you’re putting on a watch. Adjust for desired fit.
- Note the measurement at the point where it overlaps.
Visit a jeweler
If you’re not a crafty DIY-er or just prefer the certainty of a more guaranteed fit, visit your local jeweler to get professionally sized for a watch. Visiting a jeweler gives you the added benefit of trying on different watches in person, giving you an accurate feel for how a watch wears on your wrist.
How to convert your wrist size into a watch strap size
When you know your wrist measurement, you'll be better equipped to determine your watch strap size. Use the watch size chart below to match your wrist measurement with the suggested strap length. Please note that this chart is based on averages and should only be used as a general guideline. The standard length of a watch strap can vary depending on the brand, manufacturer, wrist shape, style and strap thickness.
Watch strap size guide
- 5.5–5.8 in (140–149 mm): 100 mm/60 mm
- 5.9–6.2 in (150–159 mm): 105 mm/65 mm
- 6.3–6.6 in (160–169 mm): 110 mm/70 mm
- 6.7–7 in (170–179 mm): 115 mm/75 mm
- 7.1–7.4 in (180–189 mm): 125 mm/75 mm
- 7.5–7.8 in (190–199 mm): 130 mm/80 mm
- 7.9–8.2 in (200–209 mm): 135 mm/85 mm
- 8.3–8.6 in (210–219 mm): 145 mm/85 mm
How to adjust your wrist measurement for different watch straps
An important factor in choosing the right watch strap length is which strap you choose. Different straps fit differently on the wrist. Here are three tips for adjusting your wrist measurement to fit a metal, leather, rubber, or NATO strap.
- If you’re buying a watch with a metal bracelet, add about a half inch to your original wrist size for a comfortable fit. Metal bands tend to be worn a little loosely to prevent them from pinching the skin.
- If you’re buying a leather or rubber strap, add about three-quarters of an inch to your wrist size. This type of band is meant to be more close-fitting.
- If you’re buying a watch with a NATO or fabric strap, add a full inch to your wrist size. This is to accommodate the raised watch face design and extra strap fabric that make NATO watches a bit bulkier.
How watches can be resized
If you buy a watch that doesn’t end up fitting, don’t despair! Most watch straps can be resized to fit your desired length. While you may be able to resize a watch band on your own, it’s generally recommended to get it serviced by a watch repair shop or reputable jeweler (ideally, one who is an authorized retailer of your watch brand). They have specialized tools to make the process easier and more efficient, with minimal risk of damaging your watch. Here are a few different resizing techniques professionals use for metal bracelets, leather and rubber straps.
Resizing a metal watch strap
If your metal watch strap is “swimming” on your wrist, links can be removed to make it smaller. Conversely, links can be added to make it larger if it's impossibly tight. This can be done using the spare links that came with your purchase. If you don’t have spare links, you will likely need to buy them from your watch’s respective brand.
Resizing a leather watch strap
If your leather strap is too big for your wrist, a jeweler can punch more holes into the watch strap for a tighter fit. If the strap is too tight, the leather may be able to be stretched, although it’s more likely you’ll need to get a new strap.
Resizing a rubber watch strap
A rubber strap that is too long can be cut to a size that fits your wrist.
When you find the right-sized watch, protect it by obtaining personal jewelry insurance through Jewelers Mutual. It’s an affordable option that covers theft, loss, and damage. You can check your rate by clicking the button below.
