How to measure wrist size for watches

 

Knowing how to measure your wrist size is an essential part of the watch-buying process. After all, you want your watch to fit properly, especially if you’re investing in a luxury timepiece or one with sentimental value. A watch that’s too tight can be uncomfortable and leave marks on your skin, while one that’s too loose can slide around annoyingly or even fall off.

Though most watchmakers and specialist jewellers will offer wrist measurements as part of the service when buying a watch, it’s still helpful to know how to do it yourself at home. Being able to measure your wrist quickly can be useful when buying watches online, adjusting straps, or simply comparing different styles to see what suits you best.

In this blog, we’ll look at how to measure your wrist size for a watch, both with a traditional tape measure and some alternative methods you can try if you don’t have one handy. We’ll also explore some key considerations when it comes to watch sizes that go beyond basic measurements.

 

Why wrist measurements matter

The size of your wrist doesn’t just determine how a watch fits. It can also play a big role in how it looks. Wearing a watch that’s too big on a smaller wrist can look bulky or awkward, while a dainty watch may get lost on a larger wrist.

Understanding your wrist size can also help you:

• Choose the right watch case diameter (usually between 34-50mm)
• Select the right strap or bracelet length
• Adjust or resize metal bracelets
• Make better decisions when shopping online or second-hand

 

Using a tape measure to find your wrist size

 

By far the simplest and most accurate way to measure your wrist size is with a soft, flexible tape measure. Here’s how to do it properly.

 

1. Rotate your arm outward with your palm face up and open your hand

It’s important to measure your wrist when it’s at its largest, as this will ensure the best possible fit for your watch.

Generally speaking, your wrist is at its largest when your arm is rotated outward, your palm is faced up, and your hand is open. If your wrist is facing inward or you’re making a fist, you’ll get a smaller reading and could therefore risk getting a watch that’s too tight.

 

2. Place the end of the tape measure in the middle of your wrist

Position the end of the tape measure roughly where you’d wear your watch, in the middle of your wrist.

 

3. Wrap it around your wrist and take the measurement

Wrap the tape measure around your wrist once and take note of the measurement where it meets the end-point of the tape in the middle of your wrist.

You should wrap the tape firmly so that it fits snugly around your wrist, but it shouldn’t be tight. If your skin is bulging out the sides of the tape, then you’ve wrapped it too tight.

 

How to measure wrist size without a tape measure

If you don’t have a tape measure, fear not. There are several creative (and accurate) ways to measure your wrist using everyday household items. You’ll just need a straight-edged ruler to get the final reading.

Here are three DIY options:

String or yarn

Use a piece of string to wrap around your wrist in the same way you’d use a tape measure. Then, lay the string flat next to a ruler to find the length. This is one of the easiest and most common alternatives.

Paper strip

Cut a thin strip of paper and wrap it around your wrist. Grab a pen and mark where the end overlaps, then measure the marked paper against a ruler.

Garden or cable tie

If you’re into gardening or DIY, you might have a soft garden tie or plastic cable lying around somewhere. These can be used in the same way as string (just make sure they’re flexible and not too thick).

If you decide to use something slightly bulkier, like a garden or cable tie, be mindful that it could add a few millimetres to your reading. Where possible, stick to thin, flexible materials for the most accurate measurement.

 

Watch size guide: what to do after measuring your wrist

Once you’ve got your wrist size, you’re in a great position to start shopping for a watch or resizing one you already have. Here’s how wrist measurements typically translate into watch size categories:

• Under 6 inches (15.2cm): Extra Small
• 6-6.5 inches (15.2-16.5cm): Small
• 6.5-7 inches (16.5-17.8cm): Medium
• 7-7.5 inches (17.8-19cm): Large
• Over 7.5 inches (19+cm): Extra Large

Note: These categories are guidelines only. Always check the watch manufacturer’s sizing chart when buying a specific model.

 

Key considerations when measuring wrist size

Although measuring your wrist is straightforward, there are a few extra things worth keeping in mind.

 

Time of day matters

Your wrist can slightly swell during the day due to your body’s water retention, heat, or physical activity. For the best results, measure your wrist in the late afternoon or evening, when it’s likely at its largest.

 

Hand and wrist position can affect accuracy

As mentioned earlier, always measure your wrist with your palm facing up and hand relaxed. If you’re holding tension in your hand or measuring at an awkward angle, you could end up with a reading that’s too small or inconsistent.

 

Different watch brands have different fits

Although this is more of a factor when you’re actually buying a watch, it’s still worth keeping in mind when taking your measurements. A ‘medium’ in one brand may feel smaller in another. This is especially true for bracelets and integrated strap models.

 

Strap material can affect fit

If you choose a metal strap, it’s usually a good idea to add around 1cm to your wrist measurement to account for it. On the other hand, if you go for a leather strap, you may want to add 2cm. This is due to the stiffness of the materials and the impact that it can have on the fit.

Rubber or silicone straps tend to be more flexible and, therefore, may not require any additional allowance.

 

Your wrist shape

Not all wrists are the same shape. Some are more round, while others can be more oval or even flat. Your wrist shape can affect how a watch sits and feels.

For example, round wrists tend to wear most watch styles well. On the other hand, flat wrists might suit watches with curved lugs or shorter lug-to-lug distances better, and wider wrists are more able to handle larger watch faces (e.g. 44mm+).

 

Specialist watch insurance through Ripe

Once you’ve measured your wrist and found your correct size, you might want to consider financial protection for your investment.

Specialist watch insurance through Ripe can cover your watch against theft, loss and damage in the UK and worldwide. Get a quote online in minutes and see how Ripe could help you.