Watch Strap Sizing & Installation Guide
How to Measure, Size, and Install Your Watch Strap
Getting the right watch strap fit can be tricky. Choosing the correct width and length, and installing safely, ensures comfort and protects your watch from damage.
This guide walks you through:
- Measuring strap width (lug size)
- Measuring strap length for wrist comfort
- Tools needed for installation
- Step-by-step strap installation
- Common mistakes to avoid
Find Your Perfect Strap Fit
Two measurements are essential for a proper fit: the strap width and length. If you plan to replace the buckle or add a deployant clasp, you’ll also need the strap’s taper or buckle end width.
Step 1: Measure Watch Strap Width
The strap width must match your watch’s lug width to prevent shifting or gaps.
- Use a caliper or ruler to measure the inside distance between the lugs.
- Common widths: 18mm, 20mm, 22mm.
- A strap that’s too narrow will shift; too wide won’t fit.
Pro Tip: Shop straps by width to match your measurement exactly.
Step 2: Measure Watch Strap Length
Length determines how comfortably the strap wraps around your wrist.
- Check if the strap comes in short, standard, or long lengths.
- Measure your wrist circumference where the watch sits using a flexible tape.
- Compare your measurement with the strap specifications before purchasing.
Pro Tip: Shop straps by length for a perfect fit and proper buckle overlap.
Step 3: Gather Installation Tools
Before installing, make sure you have:
- Spring bar tool (essential for removing and installing bars safely)
- Soft cloth or mat to protect your watch and work surface
- Optional: tweezers or spare spring bars for replacements
Step 4: Install the Strap or Buckle
- Place your watch face down on a soft cloth.
- Insert spring bars into the ends of the strap.
- Fit one end of the spring bar into the lug hole.
- Compress the opposite end with the spring bar tool and slide it into place.
- Check for a secure fit by gently wiggling the strap until you hear or feel a click.
Step 5: Understand Strap/Buckle Taper
Most straps taper from the lug end to the buckle end. Always match the buckle to the strap’s narrow end, not the lug width:
- A 22mm strap tapering to 20mm requires a 20mm buckle.
- A 22mm buckle on that strap will not fit.
When using a deployant clasp or replacing a buckle, always check the strap’s taper measurement. Holben’s lists both lug and buckle widths for every strap to make this easy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using an incorrect width strap
- Scratching lugs with metal tools
- Reusing bent or worn spring bars
- Skipping wrist measurements and guessing strap length
Once installed, enjoy your new strap. Questions? Contact us for assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I install a strap without special tools?
- It’s possible, but not recommended. A spring bar tool makes the process safer and easier, reducing the risk of scratching your watch or bending the bars.
- Are straps interchangeable between all watches?
- No — straps must match your watch’s lug width and attachment style to fit properly.
- How do I know if I need a long strap?
- If your wrist measures over 7.5 inches (190mm), consider selecting a long strap option for comfort.
