If you think that watches are uncomfortable, you likely never really learned how a watch should fit. There’s no shame in that, and there is hope! It’s not exactly like it’s something that’s taught in school. There’s no “How Should a Wrist Watch Fit 101.”
So — whether you’re shopping for a guys or gals watch, how do you achieve the perfect fit, so you can wear your watch and feel comfortable the entire time?
What You Will Learn
How Should Your Watch Fit?
Before we get into the bit about measurements and things to think about while you’re shopping for a watch, let’s get one thing straight about how should a watch fit: Wearing a watch should always be comfortable.
Suppose you’re new to wearing a watch. In that case, you might notice the watch’s presence. Ultimately, the watch should be comfortable enough that you eventually forget it’s even there. It simply becomes an extension of your wrist.
The Rule of Thumb (Er,Index Finger)
So how are watches supposed to fit and how do you achieve a good fit?
The general rule is that you should be able to slide an index finger underneath the watch band (your thumb is too large, and your pinky is too small). Your watch strap or watch band should be tight enough that the watch moves only slightly. There should be no sliding around or up and down your wrist and forearm as if you were wearing bangles or a similar loose bracelet. You should always be able to look down at your wrist, and the watch face should be visible, remaining in place atop your wrist.
That said, the watch should not be so tight that it’s uncomfortable or cuts off your blood circulation. If your watch leaves behind a mark on your skin when you remove it, that is a sign that it is too tight.
Note that different watches may fit you differently, primarily based on band material. Metal bands tend to move a little more freely, so you may need a tighter fit. Meanwhile, watch bands made from leather or similar material may be more comfortable with a looser fit.
How to Measure Wrist Sizes
If you’re shopping for a new watch, knowing your wrist size can be helpful. That way, you can look for a watch with a band that’s the right length and an appropriately sized face.
Yes, that’s right — it’s not just band length you must consider when determining whether a watch fits your wrist. You also have to think about the face size and whether or not the circumference will overwhelm your wrist, and be too heavy or delicate compared to your wrist width.
Here’s how to measure for both.
How to Measure Wrist Circumference
You can use several household items to measure your wrist circumference and determine the length of a watch band for your most comfortable fit.
- Use a flexible tape measure, like a tailor’s or sewing tape, and wrap it around your wrist to take your wrist measurement.
- Wrap a piece of string around your wrist and cut the string where it meets; then, measure the length of the string, to find your wrist circumference.
- Cut a length of paper and wrap that around your wrist, cutting the paper where it meets; then measure the paper’s length to find your wrist circumference.
How to Measure Wrist Width
To determine the size or shape of your watch face or case, you’ll need to measure your wrist width. To do so, simply lay your hand and wrist on a flat surface and then use any of the measuring methods detailed above to measure your wrist from one side to the other.
What to Do with These Measurements
While these measurements won’t give you an exact answer as to how long or short your watch band should be or the best circumference for your watch case, they can give you a good starting point.
For example, you’ll know not to purchase a watch with a bracelet length that matches your wrist’s circumference, as that would make the watch too tight. Likewise, you’ll know not to purchase a watch with a case diameter equal to or greater than your wrist width, as that’s far too large for your wrist size.
If you’re new to the world of watches the best way to get a good feel for your personal preference and how a watch fits on your wrist is to visit a jewelry store and try on some watches.
As you do, think about:
- What is the overall look of the watch? Does it overwhelm your wrist or seem comically small?
- Does the watch have too much movement? Does it slip and slide up and down your arm?
- Is the watch overly tight, and does it need some adjusting?
Asking these questions while actively trying watches in the store can help you better determine the right watch fit for you. Additionally, most jewelry stores have a knowledgeable team that can professionally adjust a watch if needed.
How to Fix a Loose Watch
But what if you’re not looking to buy a new watch? Maybe you already have a watch that you prefer from a favorite brand, but you’re unsure if it fits correctly.
If your watch hangs loosely around your wrist, and slides up and down your arm, you need a tighter fit. So how do you adjust a loose watch to fit more tightly?
The short answer is to adjust the watch’s tightness using the strap’s holes (if it has them). Move the watch down a hole or two until you’re no longer worried it might fall off your wrist. Suppose your watch bracelet consists of interconnecting links. In that case, you can remove some of these links until you find that the tightness fits your preference.
If neither of these options is available, you can wear something between your wrist and the watch strap or band, like a hair tie, to take up space.
How to Fix a Tight Watch
You can use the same process described above to alleviate discomfort caused by a too-tight watch, just in the opposite direction. Add more links to a metal watch bracelet, or move your watch clasp to the next hole on the strap.
If the strap has no more holes, you can add a new one yourself by creating a small hole in it. However, this will lower the watch’s value, as it can be seen as damage.
Still Wonder ‘How Tight Should My Watch Be?’ Enlist the Professionals
Are you still unsure how loose should a watch be or how tight should a watch band be? Or maybe you know that your watch needs to be more snug or loose with enough support.
Whatever the case, you can take the watch to a professional jeweler, who can not only advise whether or not the watch is the correct fit but also how to go about making the watch fit correctly.
Once you have a watch that fits exactly how it should fit, you’ll be glad that you sought out such a person who’s spent their life working to develop expertise in all things jewelry and luxury timepieces.
Watch Fit FAQs
Just need to know the basics? We’ve got you covered.
How can you tell if a watch fits?
If you can slide an index finger underneath a watch band, a watch fits. The strap should be tight enough that the watch moves only slightly—there should be no sliding around or up and down.
How do you fix a watch that’s too tight?
You can add more links to a metal watch bracelet, or move your watch clasp to the next hole on the strap. If your watch didn’t come with additional links, a jeweler may be able to provide some.
How do you fix a watch that’s too loose?
You can adjust the watch to make it tighter by moving it down a strap hole or two or removing some of the bracelet’s links.
Should you wear your watch on your right or left hand?
Wear your watch on your non-dominant hand. If you’re right-handed, wear it on your left wrist. If you’re left-handed, wear it on your right wrist. The non-dominate wearing of your watch will ensure it is more visible and less likely to be scratched or dinged as it won’t interfere with your dominant hand’s movements.
Should you try on a watch before you buy it?
Ideally, you would try on a watch before buying it. If that’s impossible, such as purchasing a watch online, you can measure your wrist circumference using a fabric measuring tape and then buy a slightly larger/longer band watch.
Now You Know How Should a Watch Fit Your Wrist!
Knowing how should a watch fit on wrist and learning how tight should a watch fit will benefit your next shopping journey. You’ll be able to confidently shop for a watch that fits your style, knowing that it will look as good on your wrist as on display. Once you get that perfectly fitting watch at home, protect it with the right insurance.
BriteCo’s specialized jewelry insurance protects your luxury watches in the event of damage, theft, or loss. Learn more about BriteCo’s comprehensive coverage options and get your free quote now.
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