Everything you need to know to get the perfect watch fit today:

If you’re in the market for a new watch, you’re probably wondering how is a watch supposed to fit? Choosing a brand-new wristwatch is always exciting, but you need to make sure it fits right. Is the strap comfortable? What sized watch-face should you go for?

The right wristwatch accessory can empower you to feel more confident and self-assured, whilst also ensuring you’re on time for your commitments. A watch is a classic accessory that often becomes a must-have accessory for any outfit, so it’s essential that you get the right fit for your new wristwatch.

So, how is a wristwatch supposed to fit? Let’s take a look at everything you need to know to find the right watch fit for you.

Basic guide to watch fit:

It’s best to start with the basics when trying to find the right watch fit for you. Ideally, a watch should fit snugly enough to prevent it from sliding around on the wrist while in motion, yet loose enough not to leave any noticeable impressions.

It’s important to note that watch fit is subjective, and some people may like a looser fit, while others may prefer a larger watch face and tighter fit.

There are other aspects you need to pay attention to when shopping for a wristwatch to ensure you get the right fit. The watch case and watch strap need to sit correctly for your wristwatch to look right. This guide is comprehensive and will outline everything you need to know about how a wristwatch is supposed to fit, so that you can shop for your next watch with confidence.

How to find the right watch case fit:

The watch case refers to the area of the watch that contains the dial and hands. The case is the protective covering that ensures your watch face, and its features are protected from the elements. As the watch case is an attention-grabbing aspect of your wristwatch, it’s vital that you make sure it fits right.

An incorrect watch case fit can result in you wearing a watch that dominates your arm and looks unsightly, or you may end up wearing a watch that is too small and looks more like a child’s bracelet than a watch.

When eyeing up the watch case fit, you need to pay attention to three things:

Case depth: this refers to the thickness of the watch case.

Case diameter: this measures the length of the watchcase horizontally, not including the crown.

Lug-to-lug size: measurement from the tip of one lug to the other. This is the largest area of the watch to measure and is arguably one of the most important.

Wrist sizes and watchcase fit:

Here are some size guidelines for matching your wrist size to your watchcase size:

Small wrist – 6 inches. A case diameter of 34mm – 38mm is right.

Average wrist -7 to 7.5 inches. Case diameters between 39mm and 42mm will fit the best.

Large wrist – 8 inches +. 44mm-46mm or even 47mm cases will give wearers a better proportional look.

What about the case depth and lug-to-lug size recommendations?

Small wrist (6 inches+): The case depth should be thin. 6mm – 10mm is perfect, but you can get away with wearing up to 12mm case depth. The recommended lug-to-lug size is under 42mm.

Average wrist (7-7.5 inches): The ideal case depth is 12mm to under 14mm. Lug-to-lug size should be above 46mm and below 50mm.

Large wrist (8 inches+): Look for a case depth of above 10mm. Depending on your preferred shape, it’s probably best to stick between the 10mm-18mm depth range. A good lug-to-lug size for this sized wrist is anything over 46mm.

How to find the right watchstrap fit:

The second key consideration you need to make about your wristwatch is the watchstrap. Finding a watchstrap that suits your wrist is the key for pulling your watch accessory together.

You can find the perfect watch face and case for your wrist, but if the strap doesn’t fit right? It will end up sliding around everywhere, leaving indentations or constantly turning, which is a nuisance.

So, how do you find the right watch strap fit?

Honestly, strap fit is subjective, and all comes down to personal preference. It’s likely that you will be wearing your watch for many hours of the day, so comfort is king. As a rule of thumb you want to make sure that your watch strap is tight enough to keep your watch secured in place with the face upwards whilst you’re moving, but not so tight that it leaves indentations in your skin.

You want to be able to fit one finger underneath your watch strap to make sure it has the right amount of slack. You may need more slack depending on the material of the watch strap. Softer materials like leather and cotton will break if secured too tightly and may cause skin irritation.

Is my watch too small?

Now, let’s take a look at how to tell if a watch is too small. In terms of the strap, your watch strap is too small and tight if there is any skin irritation, unsightly skin rolls or pain where your watch sits.

Watch size is subjective, and many people prefer to wear smaller watches as dress watches. However, if the lug of your watch is more than 1cm (about 0.39 in) away from your wrist, it may be too small. At the end of the day, you should always prioritize your comfort. If small watches make you feel confident? Wear them as often as you’d like!

Is my watch too big?

Your watch may be too big if the lugs extended significantly past your wrist. If you view your watch from the side and it looks like it’s raised from your wrist, it’s likely too big.

The same thing goes for case depth. If your watch is too thick, it can dominate your wrist and look unsightly. It’s best to use the aforementioned measurements as a guide and try on multiple sizes and styles to see what you prefer.

Concluding thoughts:

Huguenot Watches is an Irish watch company founded from a passion for classic watches and contemporary design. Shop our full range here or visit our website to take advantage of our great, free watch articles and resources.