Understanding Watch Strap Taper
Taper is the change in width from the lugs to the buckle end of a strap. It affects appearance, comfort and buckle compatibility. Use this guide to understand how taper works and what to check before reusing an existing buckle or deployant clasp.
Taper does not determine whether the strap fits between your watch's lugs; strap width does.
Not sure where to start? See the full strap sizing guide.
What taper means
Taper is written as two numbers: lug width followed by buckle width. For example, a 20/16mm strap starts at 20mm at the lugs and narrows to 16mm at the buckle.
Examples include:
- No taper: 20/20mm
- 2mm taper: 20/18mm
- 4mm taper: 20/16mm
- 6mm taper: 20/14mm
How to choose taper
Choose taper based on the proportions of your watch, the look you prefer and any buckle or deployant clasp you plan to reuse.
More taper
A greater difference between lug width and buckle width creates a slimmer appearance toward the buckle and reduces the amount of strap material under the wrist.
Less taper
A smaller difference between lug width and buckle width creates a more substantial appearance and keeps more of the strap's width through its full length.
No taper
A straight strap remains the same width from the lugs to the buckle. This is common on some sport, dive and military-style straps.
About buckle compatibility
Buckle width is determined by the strap's buckle-end width. A 20/16mm strap requires a 16mm buckle. If you are replacing a buckle or adding a deployant clasp, match the hardware to the buckle-end width, not the lug width.
Common questions
How do I know the taper of a strap?
Check the product specifications for the lug width and buckle-end width. A strap listed as 20/16mm is 20mm wide at the lugs and 16mm wide at the buckle.
Does taper change strap length?
No. Taper affects width, not length. Choose length based on wrist circumference.
Will my existing buckle work with a new strap?
Only if the buckle width matches the strap's buckle-end width. For example, a strap that measures 18mm at the buckle requires an 18mm buckle.
Need help with another measurement? See our Strap Width Guide or Strap Length Guide.
