How to Measure Your Wrist
Accurate measurement is the foundation of good watch fit. Here's how to do it properly:
Method 1: Flexible Measuring Tape
Wrap a flexible measuring tape around your wrist, just below the wrist bone where you'd normally wear a watch. Keep it snug but not tight. Read the measurement in inches or centimeters.
Method 2: Strip of Paper
Wrap a strip of paper (or string) around your wrist. Mark where it overlaps. Lay it flat and measure with a ruler. This is your wrist circumference.
Measure at the end of the day when your wrist is slightly larger. Measure twice to be sure.
Wrist Size to Watch Size Chart
Use your wrist circumference to find your ideal case diameter range:
| Wrist Size | Recommended Case Size | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Under 6" (15cm) | 34-38mm | Vintage styles, women's watches, small wrists |
| 6" - 6.5" (15-16.5cm) | 36-40mm | Classic proportions, versatile sizing |
| 6.5" - 7" (16.5-18cm) | 38-42mm | Most popular range, suits most styles |
| 7" - 7.5" (18-19cm) | 40-44mm | Sport watches, modern styling |
| Over 7.5" (19cm+) | 42-46mm+ | Large sport watches, bold designs |
These are guidelines, not rules. Personal preference matters most—try watches on whenever possible.
Key Measurements Explained
Case Diameter
Measured across the face of the watch, excluding the crown. The most common sizing metric. Modern men's watches range from 36-44mm; women's from 26-36mm.
Lug-to-Lug Distance
The distance from the top of the upper lugs to the bottom of the lower lugs. This is crucial—if the lugs overhang your wrist, the watch is too big regardless of case diameter. Ideal: equal to or less than your wrist width.
Case Thickness
How tall the watch sits on your wrist. Under 10mm is slim (dress); 10-13mm is average; over 14mm is chunky (dive/sport). Thinner watches slip under cuffs easier and wear more elegantly.
Strap/Bracelet Width
The width where the strap meets the lugs (lug width). Common sizes: 18mm, 20mm, 22mm. Important for strap replacement compatibility.
How a Watch Should Fit
A properly fitted watch should:
✓ Lugs Don't Overhang
The lugs should not extend past the edges of your wrist. If they do, the watch is too large.
✓ Bracelet/Strap Has Correct Tension
You should be able to fit one finger between the bracelet and your wrist. Too tight restricts blood flow; too loose and the watch slides around.
✓ Watch Sits Flat
The case back should rest flat on top of your wrist without tilting or rocking.
✓ Comfortable Throughout the Day
A well-fitted watch becomes unnoticeable after wearing for a while. If you're constantly aware of it, something isn't right.
Size Trends Over Time
Watch sizes have fluctuated throughout history:
| Era | Common Size | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1950s-1970s | 34-36mm | Elegant, understated sizing |
| 1980s-1990s | 36-38mm | Slight increase, still classic |
| 2000s-2010s | 40-44mm | Peak "big watch" era |
| 2020s | 36-40mm | Return to classic proportions |
The trend is moving back toward smaller, more elegant sizing. When in doubt, go smaller—you're less likely to regret it.
Special Considerations
Integrated Bracelets
Watches like the Rolex Datejust, AP Royal Oak, or Tissot PRX have bracelets that are part of the design. These can wear larger than their case size suggests due to the visual extension of the bracelet.
Cushion Cases
Square or cushion-shaped cases (like the Cartier Santos) are measured differently—they often feel smaller than their stated dimensions suggest.
Digital/Tool Watches
G-Shocks and tool watches are designed to wear large. A 45mm G-Shock doesn't have the same presence as a 45mm dress watch—adjust expectations accordingly.