Buying a watch strap in the wrong size is one of the most frustrating mistakes you can make.

You've found the perfect leather.

You've got the correct lug width.

But then the strap arrives — and it's either too short, too long, or simply doesn't fit the way you expected.

Here's how to avoid that.

M vs L: What's Your Real Wrist Size?

You've nailed your lug width.

Great.

But there's a second measurement that determines whether your watch strap actually fits comfortably on your wrist.

That number is your wrist circumference.

And this is where things can get confusing.

Why "M" and "L" Aren't Enough

Many brands label their watch straps as S, M, L, or XL.

The problem?

Those letters don't mean exactly the same thing across every brand.

One brand's M might be another brand's L.

That's why the most reliable measurement is your actual wrist circumference in millimetres.

Forget the letter.

Measure your wrist.

📏 How to Measure Your Wrist

Measuring your wrist is simple.

You just need a soft tape measure — or a strip of paper and a ruler.

1. Get a Soft Tape Measure

Use a flexible tape measure if you have one.

Don't have one?

A strip of paper or a piece of string works too.

2. Wrap It Around Your Wrist

Place the tape around the part of your wrist where you would normally wear your watch.

Usually, this is around the wrist bone.

Make sure the tape sits naturally around your wrist rather than higher up your arm.

3. Keep It Snug — Not Tight

The tape should sit comfortably against your skin.

Don't pull it too tightly.

You should be able to fit approximately one fingertip between the tape and your wrist.

This gives you a more realistic measurement for everyday watch wear.

4. Record Your Measurement

Note the measurement in millimetres (mm).

For example:

16 cm = 160 mm

17.5 cm = 175 mm

18.5 cm = 185 mm

This is the number you'll want when checking your watch strap size.

📐 HMS Watch Strap Size Guide

As a general guide:

These ranges are a general guide, and the ideal size can also depend on the strap length, watch case size, buckle position, and your preferred fit.

If you're between sizes, check the specific strap's measurements before ordering.

💡 HMS Tip: No Tape Measure? No Problem.

You don't need special equipment to measure your wrist.

Simply:

1. Take a strip of paper.

2. Wrap it around your wrist where you normally wear your watch.

3. Mark the point where the paper overlaps.

4. Lay the paper flat against a ruler.

5. Measure the length in centimetres or millimetres.

That's your approximate wrist circumference.

Simple.

Wrist Size vs Lug Width: Don't Mix Them Up

This is one of the most common mistakes when buying a watch strap.

Lug width and wrist circumference are two completely different measurements.

Lug Width

Determines whether the strap physically fits between the lugs of your watch.

For example:

20mm lug width → 20mm strap at the watch case

Wrist Circumference

Helps determine whether the strap length is suitable for your wrist.

You need both measurements before ordering:

Lug width = the right width.

Wrist circumference = the right fit.

Get both right, and you're much more likely to get a comfortable fit straight out of the box.

What If I'm Between M and L?

Don't automatically choose based on the letter alone.

Check the actual strap length and buckle position.

A watch strap's total length can vary between brands and designs, and different watches can also affect how much strap length you need.

If you're close to the boundary between two sizes, consider:

• Your exact wrist circumference
• The strap's total length
• The length of the long and short sides
• Your watch case size
• Your preferred fit

A snug fit and a relaxed fit can require different strap lengths even on the same wrist.

The Golden Rule

Before ordering a new watch strap, remember:

Measure your wrist.

Check your lug width.

Check the strap length.

Three simple details that can save you from ordering the wrong size.

Because the perfect watch strap isn't just about looking good.

It should feel good too.

Find Your Perfect Fit with HMS

Looking for a leather watch strap that fits your wrist comfortably?

Explore the HMS collection of genuine leather watch straps and check the available strap measurements before choosing your size.

Visit HMS.Watch

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