When looking to buy the perfect watch, it's important to get the right size that will not only look good on your wrist but also match your style and make you feel comfortable.
We will take you through everything you need to know when choosing the perfect watch for your wrist including how to measure your wrist, the right case size and what will work best with your lifestyle.
1. Measure Your Wrist
The first thing to do before purchasing any watch is to measure your wrist.
Use a measuring tape to wrap around your wrist just below the bone. Make sure that it is not too tight.
If you don't have a measuring tape then simply wrap a piece of string around your wrist and mark where the two ends meet. Then measure this with a ruler.
Size Guide:
- Small wrist: Less than 6 inches
- Small/Medium wrist: 6-6.5 inches
- Medium wrist: 6.5-7 inches
- Medium/Large wrist: 7-7.5 inches
- Large wrist: Over 7.5 inches
This is a general rule of thumb and how the watch will look on your wrist will depend on your wrist shape, personal preference and watch design.
2. What Case Size?
Case size is the overall width of the watch (in mm) without the crown.
If the watch is too big it can hang off the edge of your wrist. If the watch is too small it can look out of balance depending on your personal preference.
Size Guide:
- Less than 6 inches: 34-38mm
- 6-6.5 inches: 36-40mm
- 6.5-7 inches: 38-42mm
- 7-7.5 inches: 40-44mm
- Over 7.5 inches: 42-46mm
This is a general guideline. For example a 42mm watch can look perfectly balanced on one persons wrist but oversized on another persons wrist. This can depend on the shape of the case, width of the bezel and lug design.
3. Lug to Lug Measurement
Many beginners only look at case size and forget about lug to lug measurement.
Lugs are the small bits on either side of the case. The lug to lug measurement is how long it is from one end of the lugs to the other.
This measurement is important to know as it tells you how much space the watch will take up on your wrist.
Ideally you want to avoid having lugs that hang off the edge of your wrist. This can make the watch look oversized.
If you have a smaller wrist then getting a watch with shorter lugs can really make a difference.
4. Thickness
Thickness is how thick the watch is from the front crystal to the back of the case.
Thicker watches tend to look bold and sporty whereas thinner watches generally look more sleek and elegant.
If you have a small/slim wrist then getting a very thick watch can look bulky. It can also cause discomfort when wearing long sleeved shirts or smart clothes.
A moderately thin watch is often a good choice if you're looking for a watch to wear everyday. However if you're into sports watches or diving watches then a thicker case might be perfect for you.
5. Strap Type
The strap of your watch is another important factor to consider. Even if your watch is the right size, if the strap doesn't fit you will feel uncomfortable.
There are a few types of straps:
Leather
Leather straps give a classic and elegant look. They are great for wearing to formal events, in the office and with traditional outfits. Black or brown leather straps are a great versatile choice.
Metal
Metal bracelets are a great versatile and durable option. Stainless steel can be worn with casual or formal outfits. They come in various designs such as Oyster, Jubilee and Mesh.
Rubber
Rubber straps are popular in sports and diving watches. They are generally waterproof, flexible and easy to clean. If you have an active lifestyle then a rubber strap can be a great choice.
Nylon/Fabric
Nylon straps are light weight, comfortable and casual. NATO straps are a popular choice. They are great for everyday wear and come in lots of colours and patterns.
6. Lifestyle
The perfect watch should match your lifestyle. Just because it looks good doesn't mean it will be the best option.
Office/Formal
If you often attend meetings or work in a professional environment then a simple dress watch would be a great choice. Watches with simple dials, slim cases and leather straps are perfect.
Everyday
Choose a versatile watch that can be worn with various outfits. A stainless steel watch with a simple dial is a great choice. It can be worn in more casual and semi formal situations.
Sports
If you enjoy sports, hiking, swimming or outdoors then a sports watch would be a great choice. Look for a durable watch with comfortable straps, easy to read and the right level of water resistance.
Minimalist
If you like clean and simple watches then a minimalist watch would be a great choice. Avoid overly complicated watches and oversized designs. A simple dial with subtle markings will give an elegant look.
7. Watch Types
There are various watch types to choose from.
- Dress Watches – Simple and elegant watches for formal situations.
- Dive Watches – Sporty watches for use in water. Generally have a high level of water resistance and rotating bezel.
- Field Watches – Functional watches inspired from military designs. Usually have easy to read dials.
- Chronograph Watches – Watches with a stopwatch function and extra dials.
- Digital Watches – Watches with digital numbers.
- Smartwatches – Electronic watches with helpful features such as notifications, fitness tracker and app compatibility.
Knowing the different watch types will help you choose the right watch for your needs.
8. Dials
The dial is the most noticeable part of the watch. The colour, markings, hands and overall design can make a big difference.
Black and white dials are a great versatile choice. Black dials often give a bold look whilst white or silver dials give a clean look.
Blue dials are also a popular choice. They give a good balance between elegant and casual.
If you're buying your first watch then it's generally a good idea to go for a neutral coloured dial. It will be easier to match with various outfits.
9. Movement Type
The movement is the mechanism inside the watch that makes it keep time. Knowing the basic types can help you make a more informed purchase.
Quartz
Quartz watches use a battery and quartz crystal to keep accurate time. They are generally an affordable, reliable option with minimal maintenance.
Automatic
Automatic watches use the movement of your wrist to wind the mainspring. They generally don't need a battery however if they are not worn for a long period of time they can stop.
Mechanical
Mechanical watches use a manually wound mainspring. Watch enthusiasts love these as they are traditional.
It will depend on your budget, how much maintenance you want and if you're interested in watch making.
10. Budget
One of the biggest mistakes people make is thinking that the more expensive the watch, the better it will be for them.
Decide how much you are willing to spend on a watch. There are amazing choices in all price ranges.
Compare the watches by:
- Quality and materials.
- Movement.
- Brand reputation and customer service.
- Warranty and repair.
- Comfort and design.
- Features.
Don't waste your money on a famous brand. Focus on the features and quality you want.
11. Common Mistakes
Despite knowing the right sizes and types many beginners make a few common mistakes.
- Getting an oversized watch. Whilst it might look impressive in photos it can be uncomfortable on a smaller wrist.
- Not considering lug to lug. Case size isn't everything.
- Buying based on brand. Just because it's a famous brand doesn't mean it will fit your wrist.
- Not comfortable. You should feel comfortable wearing your watch for long periods of time.
- Water resistant. Just because they have a water resistant rating doesn't mean they can all be used for swimming/diving.
- Going with trends. Choose a design you like!
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect watch for your wrist requires more than just looking at the brand, price and style. Measuring your wrist, getting the right case size, lug to lug measurement, thickness, strap material and considering your lifestyle is all important.
Start by measuring your wrist and knowing what case sizes will probably be best for you. Consider the design, movement, comfort and purpose of the watch.
Most importantly there is no one size fits all. The perfect watch for you will be one that fits your wrist comfortably, matches your personal style and works for your everyday needs.
A great watch should be one you enjoy wearing everyday.
FAQs
1. What watch size is best for a small wrist?
A watch with a case size of 34-38mm is often a good place to start. However, lug to lug and case design is also very important.
2. Will a 42mm watch be too big for a small wrist?
It can look oversized however it depends on the lug to lug, thickness and design.
3. How tight should your watch be?
Your watch should sit comfortably without being too tight. It shouldn't slip too much however you should still be able to move your wrist comfortably.
4. What strap is best for everyday use?
Stainless steel, leather, rubber and nylon can all be great choices. It depends on what you're comfortable with, your lifestyle and personal preference.
5. Should your watch go over the wrist bone?
Generally your watch will sit just above the wrist bone. This will generally be more comfortable and won't get in the way of your wrist movement.
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