How to Measure Watch Lug Width & Strap Size

How to Measure Your Watch for a Custom Strap: Start With These 5 Measurements

Ordering a custom watch strap with spring bar system should be simple, but getting the measurements right is essential. A difference of just 1 mm can affect whether a strap fits properly between the watch lugs or connects correctly to the buckle.

Before ordering a custom watch strap, we recommend confirming these 5 key measurements:

Watch lug width – the distance between the inside edges of the watch lugs.
Buckle width – the inside width where the strap connects to the buckle.
Long-side strap length – the length of the strap section with the adjustment holes.
Short-side strap length – the length of the strap section with the buckle.
Wrist size – especially important when you do not have the original strap to measure.

If you already have a well-fitting watch strap, you can use it as a reference. If you are ordering a completely new strap, you can measure the watch case and your wrist instead.
Pro Tip: Always use millimeters (mm) when measuring a watch strap. Do not use an inch ruler because watch straps are normally manufactured according to millimeter measurements.
If you are unsure about your measurements, simply place your ruler next to the part you are measuring and take a clear photo. You can send the photo to us, and we can help you read the measurement before you place your order.

1. How to Measure Watch Lug Width

What Is Watch Lug Width?

Watch lug width is the distance between the inside edges of the two lugs where the watch strap attaches to the watch case.

A common mistake is measuring the outside of the lugs instead of the space between them. For strap fitting, you need the inside-to-inside measurement.

How To Measure Lug Size And Length Wrong Demo

How To Measure Lug Size And Length Right Demo

This is why we may ask for your watch model, measurements, photos, or original strap details before making your order.

For watches with unusual lug shapes, curved ends, integrated connections, or proprietary attachment systems, lug width alone may not be enough.

If your watch uses a special lug adapter or proprietary strap connection, make sure you confirm compatibility before ordering.

Check Your Existing Watch Strap

If your watch already has a leather strap, measuring the existing strap can sometimes be easier than measuring the watch itself.

Remove the strap and measure the width at the end that attaches to the watch.

You can also check the strap markings. Some watch straps have their size printed or stamped on the underside.

For example, a marking such as:

20/16

usually indicates:

20 mm at the watch lug

16 mm at the buckle

However, do not rely on markings alone if you are unsure. It is better to physically measure the strap.

An old strap is particularly useful because it can also provide information about the strap length.

How to Measure Buckle Width

Buckle width refers to the width of the strap opening where the watch strap connects to the buckle.

This measurement is especially important if you want your custom strap to work with your existing original buckle or folding clasp.

Different buckle sizes will also display different strap styles

How to measure wrist size for watch?

What if your original strap is a metal bracelet and you cannot measure the strap length?

In that situation, your wrist circumference is very useful.

Use a flexible measuring tape and wrap it around the wrist where you normally wear your watch.

Make sure the tape is:

Comfortable

Not excessively tight

Not hanging loosely from the wrist

Record the measurement where the tape meets the zero point.

If you want to customize Velcro watch straps, you can refer to our strap guide for velcro strap: Custom Rubber Velcro Watch Guide

If you are unfamiliar with these terms, read our Leather Watch Strap Parts Name Guide before measuring your strap.This can help you understand exactly which part needs to be measured.

Custom Leather Watch Straps for Luxury Watches

Once the measurements are confirmed, you can personalize more than just the size.

Our custom handmade leather watch straps can be customized according to your requirements, including:

Lug width
Buckle width
Strap length
Leather material
Leather color
Stitching color
Strap thickness
Taper
Lining
Other design details

We make custom leather watch straps for a wide range of luxury watch brands, including Audemars Piguet, Blancpain, Breguet, Bvlgari, Breitling, Cartier, Chopard, Corum, Franck Muller, Glashütte, Graham, Hamilton, Hermès, Hublot, IWC, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Omega, Oris, Panerai, Patek Philippe, Piaget, Rado, Richard Mille, Rolex, Tudor, Ulysse Nardin, Vacheron Constantin, Zenith, and more.

Because every exotic leather hide is naturally unique, no two straps will have exactly the same grain or pattern. This natural variation is part of the character of genuine leather and exotic skins.

All of our custom leather watch straps are handmade to order, allowing you to personalize the details according to your watch and wearing preferences.

Please note: We are an independent aftermarket/custom watch strap maker and are not affiliated with the watch manufacturers mentioned above.

FAQ

Q:What if I cannot tell whether my lug width is 20 mm or 21 mm?

A:Do not guess. Take a clear photo with the ruler positioned across the inside of the lugs and send it to us. We can help you check the measurement.

Q:Does a 1 mm difference really matter?

A:Yes. A 1 mm difference can affect how the strap sits between the lugs. For custom straps, accurate measurements are important for both appearance and fit.

Related Watch Strap Guides

If you are planning to order a custom watch strap, these guides may also help

Watch Lug Adapter Compatibility: Why Genuine Watches Matter – Learn why some watches require specific lug adapters and why compatibility should be confirmed before ordering.
Luxury Leather Watch Bands Guide – Learn about leather types, construction, colors, styles, and how to choose a luxury leather watch strap.