Watch Size Guide: How to Choose the Right Watch for Your Wrist

Choosing the perfect watch isn’t just about the dial design or the materials—it’s about how the watch fits your wrist. Watch sizing impacts comfort, appearance, and wearability. Whether you’re shopping for a luxury watch or exploring vintage pieces, understanding how to measure your wrist and match it to a watch case size is essential.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to measure:

• Watch case dimensions
• Irregular-shaped cases
• Crowns and Complications
• Bracelet styles and fit
• Your wrist size—and match it to the ideal watch diameter

Measuring the Watch Case

Getting the Base Size

To measure a watch accurately, you’ll need a caliper with millimeter readings (preferably digital) and plastic jaws to prevent scratching. Here’s how to measure:

• Case Diameter (Base Size): Measure from the 8 to 2 o’clock position, avoiding the crown. This is the primary watch size most manufacturers list.
• Case Thickness: Use the caliper across the case height (excluding the crystal) to determine how tall the watch will sit on your wrist. Most watches are between 8mm and 14mm thick.

A watch can be measured diagonally, typically across the 8 to 2 marks while avoiding the crown and any other case features. This measurement is going to give you the base size, but you will want to do further measurements a complete sizing.

Measuring Unusual Watch Cases

Watches with cushion, rectangular, or tonneau shapes wear differently than traditional round cases. For consistency:

• Measure across the narrowest point for a base size
• Note the widest point for reference

Recording both can be helpful, especially when reselling or comparing models like the Patek Philippe Nautilus or Cartier Tank.

Watch Case Thickness

Something not often considered when looking at watches and how they best fit is the case thickness. Most watches are between 8-12mm thick. Thin and ultra-thin watches measure less than 8mm, while thick watches measure over 14mm.

A thicker watch, or even a NATO strap sitting under the case can make a watch look even larger, even if the case size is on the smaller size. A more slender case can make a watch wear smaller on the wrist.

Lug Width and Lug-to-Lug Measurement

These measurements affect how the watch sits on your wrist:

• Lug Width: Measure the distance between the inside of the lugs. This determines the correct strap or bracelet size (e.g., 20mm).
• Lug-to-Lug Distance: Measure from the tip of one lug to the other. This determines how long the watch will span across your wrist, which is crucial for comfort, especially on smaller wrists.

Crowns, Pushers & Complications

Chronograph pushers, crown guards, or helium escape valves add to the watch’s effective width and can alter its wearability.

A 40mm case with prominent complications can wear closer to 42mm. Always account for these when determining fit.

Bracelet Style and Fit

• Integrated Bracelets: Found in models like the Royal Oak, they flare outward and can wear larger than their size suggests.
• Straps vs. Bracelets: NATO and rubber straps add height under the case, making the watch wear thicker. Metal bracelets add heft and can affect fit.

Example: A 41mm Royal Oak may wear larger than a 40mm Submariner due to the bracelet design.

What Size Watch Should I Wear?

Knowing your wrist size is step one. Use a measuring tape or download our wrist size guide.

Wrist Size Watch Chart:

Pro Tip: For a sleek, dressy look, go down 1–2mm in size. For sportier watches, go up 1–2mm.

Tips for Finding the Best Fit:

1. Proportion is key: A small wrist with an oversized case can look out of place. Similarly, large wrists often make smaller cases appear delicate.
2. Case thickness matters: Thin watches (<8mm) suit dress occasions, while thick watches (>14mm) feel more rugged.
3. Wear location: Most watches are worn just below the wrist bone on the non-dominant hand. Measure there.
4. Style preference: Leather straps often wear smaller, while steel bracelets and sport models wear larger.

40mm Rolex Milgauss on a 6-inch ladies wrist

Watch Size For A 7in Wrist

A 7-inch wrist is the average wrist size for a male. A case size between 38–42mm is typically ideal. For a slimmer look, 36–38mm works well; for sportier appeal, try 40–42mm.

Explore Watches by Fit

At The 1916 Company, we offer a virtual try-on experience through website and our app. Look for the “Try It On” badge while browsing to see how a watch will appear on your wrist. Every piece is authenticated and backed by a 2-year warranty.

Still unsure? Explore our other buying guides or speak with one of our expert Client Advisors to find the perfect match based on your wrist size, style, and preference.