Are you planning to replace your watchband and don't know what size to choose? This comprehensive guide is designed to help you avoid measurement errors. It will help you determine the ideal strap size, whether for a leather, stainless steel, plastic or silicone model. With our advice, you'll be able to choose the perfect strap for your Swatch, Casio, Tissot, Festina, Breitling, or any other watch model for men or women. This practical guide requires no watchmaking experience and will help you get the right dimensions for an optimal fit.
How to measure a watchband
By the end of this guide, you'll know exactly how to measure your watchband. So you can easily choose the right strap for your watch. For this tutorial, you'll need a caliper. If you don't have one, a ruler may suffice. If you don't have either, download our free printable graduated ruler in our "Measuring your wrist" section.
How to measure your watchband?
To get an accurate measurement, it's essential to measure the width of your watch's lugs. This point is where the strap bar (pump) attaches, not at a random point on the strap. Follow the steps below to obtain a correct measurement.
Step 1: Measuring the horn gap
Place the caliper or ruler at the lugs, where the strap attaches to the watch. Measure in millimeters for greater accuracy. This measurement is essential to ensure compatibility with the new bracelet.
Step 2: Record the measurement
Note this width. This is the dimension you'll use to buy a new watchband. It must correspond perfectly to the size of the lugs for an optimal fit.
Step 3: Measure the length of the bracelet
If you want to measure the length of the bracelet, lay it flat and measure it from end to end, not including the clasp. This will help you choose a bracelet that fits perfectly on your wrist.
Step 4: Check wrist compatibility
To check that the bracelet is compatible with your wrist, use a tape measure or our wrist measurer. Simply take the circumference of your wrist, then compare this measurement with the total length of the bracelet.
Step 5: Adjusting a leather strap
If your watch has a leather strap, make sure it's neither too tight nor too loose. Leather adapts to the shape of the wrist, but the wrong size could alter its comfort and durability.
Step 6: Adjusting a metal bracelet
For metal bracelets, make sure that the width is compatible with your watch and that the overall length can be adjusted by adding or removing links.
Choosing the right watch strap is essential for a perfect fit and optimum comfort. Whether you opt for a cowhide, stainless steel, silicone or nylon strap, make sure you know the right measurements to avoid having a strap that's too wide or too narrow. Use a tape measure, a caliper or our graduated ruler to take the exact dimensions of your watch. Also check that the bracelet fits snugly between the lugs for a strong, durable hold.
If you own a men's or women's watch from brands such as Casio, Tissot, Breitling or Festina, always check the sizes indicated in our size chart. Whether you're looking for a classic leather strap, a metal mesh bracelet or a rubber strap for sports watches, you'll find all the information you need to make the right choice. Measuring the length of the strap is just as important, especially for models with folding clasps or pin buckles, as it must fit your wrist without being either too tight or too loose.
With our advice, you can be sure to select the ideal size for your watch and enjoy optimum comfort, while preserving the appearance and functionality of your timepiece. Find all our strap sizes and watch accessories in our online store, and feel free to consult our detailed guides to find out more.