Watch Strap Size Guide: How to Measure Your Watch

Choosing the right watch strap starts with one measurement: the lug width of your watch. This guide explains how to measure your watch, choose the correct strap width, and avoid the most common sizing mistakes.

How to Find Your Watch Strap Size

Your watch lug width should match your strap width. Measure the inside distance between the two lugs where the strap connects to the watch case. Measure in millimeters (mm).

How to measure watch lug width and choose the correct watch strap size

Step 1: Measure the Lug Width

Use a ruler or, for better accuracy, a caliper. Measure straight across from the inside edge of one lug to the inside edge of the opposite lug. Do not measure the outside of the lugs or the width of the watch case.

If the distance is 20mm, choose a 20mm watch strap. If it is 22mm, choose a 22mm strap.

Measured Lug Width Strap Width to Choose
18mm 18mm watch strap
20mm 20mm watch strap
22mm 22mm watch strap
24mm 24mm watch strap

Watch lug width measurement guide for choosing 18mm 20mm or 22mm watch straps

Step 2: Check Your Existing Strap

If you already have a strap that fits your watch, check its underside near the end that connects to the watch. Many straps have their width stamped or embossed in millimeters. A marking such as 20 or 20mm usually indicates a 20mm strap.

Watch strap underside showing a 20mm width marking

Watch Strap Width vs. Wrist Size

These are two different measurements. Strap width determines whether the strap fits between your watch lugs. Strap length determines whether the strap fits around your wrist.

First choose the correct lug width. Then check the length or recommended wrist range shown on the individual product page, because strap lengths and adjustment ranges can vary by design.

Do Not Measure the Buckle

The size used when buying a replacement watch strap refers to the width at the watch end, not the buckle end. Some straps taper toward the buckle, so a 20mm strap can have a narrower buckle width and still be the correct strap for a 20mm lug width.

Common Watch Strap Sizes

Common replacement strap widths include 18mm, 20mm, 22mm and 24mm. Do not choose a strap based only on the watch brand or case diameter. Different models from the same brand can use different lug widths, so measuring your own watch is the safest method.

Watch Strap Size FAQ

How do I know what size watch strap I need?

Measure the inside distance between your watch lugs in millimeters. Match that measurement to the strap width. For example, a 20mm lug width requires a 20mm watch strap.

Is watch strap size the same as wrist size?

No. Watch strap size usually refers to the strap width where it connects to the watch. Wrist size helps determine the strap length you need.

Can I put a 22mm strap on a 20mm watch?

For a proper fit, choose a strap width that matches the watch's lug width. A 22mm strap is designed for a 22mm lug opening, while a 20mm watch should use a 20mm strap.

Where is the watch strap size measured?

Measure at the watch end of the strap, where the spring bar sits between the lugs.

What if my measurement falls between two sizes?

Measure again with a millimeter ruler or caliper and check the watch manufacturer's specifications if available. Avoid forcing a strap that is wider than the lug opening.

Still Not Sure?

If you are unsure which strap width fits your watch, contact us with the watch brand and model or send us a clear photo of the watch and its lugs. We will help you identify the appropriate size before you order.

Email us at ibenifitstrap@163.com.

Once you know your lug width, explore IBENIFIT watch straps and choose the matching size on the product page.