Last Updated on 6 years by Naveen Kumar
“A gentleman’s choice of timepiece says as much about him as does his Saville Row suit”
– Ian Fleming
Dimensions, calibers, color, straps — watchmakers unveil an unending number of choices and styles every year to suit every taste and trend in the world of timepieces. More than often these changes happen with subtle differences.
Most importantly, size, that includes both the diameter of the watch’s case and its thickness, and fit are crucial components to consider when searching for the perfect timepiece.Beyond style and price, size is probably the most important factor when buying a watch because “one size does not fit all”. A watch and its wearer work together, with a watch subtly fitting into a person’s style and lifestyle.
Why Watch size matters?
So are you worried that a watch might be too small or look too big like a dinner plate on your wrists?
Knowing your size will also be incredibly helpful if you like to shop online as you’ll be able to purchase a style that fits right without trying it on. It may also help you narrow down your choice of designs.
Always remember that your watch should feel comfortable on your wrist and be tight enough not to slide around but loose enough not to dig into your skin.
How to know your wrist size?
As part of finding the right watch for you, it is vital you know your wrist size. So how to measure your wrist size easily and accurately?
Listed below are two super easy methods that you can use to measure your wrists, and the best part, you can do it yourself. One is using a simple and flexible measuring tape and the other is using a string or even an earphone to measure your wrists.
Measuring wrist size – Method 1: Using a Measuring Tape
You can easily measure your wrist size by bring around a flexible measuring tape across the wrist.
Measuring wrist size – Method 2: Using a string/earphones and ruler
In case you do not have a flexible measuring tape handy, you can simply put use a small string or your earphones. Just like with the tape, bring it across and around the wrist and mark the end points. You can then measure the end points using a ruler or an online ruler (go to http://iruler.net/).
Now that you know your wrist size, half the job is done.
You can refer to the below infographic to match the watch case diameter for your wrist size.
What Case Diameter should you chose for your wrist?
When it comes to watches you will always hear people talking about millimeters, but what do they really mean?
It is the diameter of the dial face that they are referring to. Generally, they range from anywhere between 36-46mm.
Case Diameter
Watch case diameter is the most significant and noticeable element when it comes to selecting the right watch. Men’s watch diameters generally range from 38mm to 46mm. Anything outside this range tends to appear too small or large. To find your perfect size within the range, use your wrist measurement.
If your wrist is between 5.5-7 inches, a small or medium watch with a diameter of 38mm, 40mm or 42mm is ideal. If your wrist is 7 inches and above, choose a larger case, such as one that is 44-46mm.
Now that you know your wrist size and the case diameter, you can start searching for your style online.
Have you checked the case diameter when you bought your last watch online? If not, this time don’t forget to look at the case diameter in the product specification section.
All major and popular watch brands show this information in their store. If you don’t see this information, we advise you not to purchase that particular watch simply because you don’t know what size it is and how it will fit to your wrist.
What are the other factors to consider while buying a watch?
Case Thickness
As a thumb rule, the case depth should be proportional to the case diameter. As the thickness increases, the diameter should also widen.
Typically, a watch between 38mm to 42mm in diameter will feature a 7mm thickness and those around 44mm and above should be around 9mm thick or more.
Band Width
Typically, a well proportioned watch usually has a band width of about half its case diameter. If you wear a 40mm watch, the width should be approximately 20mm in width. If you have larger wrists you should ideally prefer wider bands.
Band Material
Metal bands tend to have a heavier and chunky look. Whereas, silicone or leather bands lend more slim look.
Watch Detailing
Other factors include the detailing like sub dials, crowns etc, that have the power to alter the look and feel of the whole watch.
Tip: Another very key factor to consider when choosing the size of a watch, is if you would be wearing it with or without sleeves. Watches worn with sleeves should ideally be smaller (38-41mm), since they look better on the wrist whereas watches worn without sleeves better be large ones.
So do you have any tips or ideas on choosing the perfect watch according to your wrist size. Do let us know through your comments.
