A two-piece watch strap needs both the right attachment width and a suitable length. Length affects where the buckle rests, which hole is used and how much tail remains after fastening. Keep the long and short pieces separate when comparing sizes; their combined length does not describe the whole fit.
Keep the two strap lengths separate
The HIRSCH size guide illustrates its L length as a 120 mm hole section plus an 80 mm buckle section. The metal buckle is outside the illustrated 80 mm measurement. In the Delugs sizing guide, L is listed as 125 mm for the long piece and 75 mm for the short piece.
Both examples total 200 mm, yet the distribution differs. These are the dimensions in those guides, not a universal definition of L. Check the exact strap listing and its measurement endpoints before comparing another product.
Use the wrist and watch as part of the record
HIRSCH’s length FAQ suggests measuring a strap that already fits, or measuring the wrist with a tape or string without pulling it too tight. When recording an existing strap, measure both pieces rather than copying only the letter size.
Delugs also considers the watch’s lug-to-lug length: the span from the upper lug tips to the lower lug tips. This is different from case diameter and from the gap between the lugs. A length recommendation should therefore identify the watch as well as the wrist.
Use the following editorial record to keep the measurements clear:
| Record | Detail to include | Question it answers |
|---|---|---|
| Wrist | Circumference, unit and where it was measured. | Which wrist measurement is being compared? |
| Watch | Exact reference and documented lug-to-lug length. | Which case is part of the proposed arrangement? |
| Strap pieces | Long piece, short piece and the supplier’s measurement endpoints. | How is the stated length divided? |
| Fastened arrangement | Used hole, buckle position and tail reaching the keepers. | How does the current arrangement sit when worn? |
Record buckle position and the remaining tail
Delugs distinguishes the short piece’s effect on buckle position from the long piece’s effect on tail length. Note both when checking a strap you already wear. A total length alone cannot show whether the buckle sits where you want it or whether the tail reaches the retaining loops.
A folding clasp changes the arrangement. Delugs cautions that lengths chosen for a pin buckle may fit differently with a deployant clasp. Record the exact closure and ask for sizing guidance for that combination before treating the two systems as interchangeable.
Prepare a useful sizing enquiry
The following checklist turns observations into a clear enquiry without promising a particular fit:
- Identify the watch reference, strap model and buckle or clasp. Save the supplier’s size wording and measurement diagram.
- Write down the wrist measurement and both strap-piece lengths in millimetres. State whether each figure is measured or taken from documentation.
- For a strap already fitted correctly, note the hole used, buckle position and remaining tail. Photograph the underside without pulling the strap tighter for the picture.
- Describe the change you want, such as less spare tail or a different buckle position. Send the record to the strap maker and ask which dimensions need changing.
Do not punch extra holes or cut a leather strap as part of this check. If an endpoint is hidden or a measurement is uncertain, mark that uncertainty in the enquiry instead of supplying a guessed number.
Sources and scope
The HIRSCH and Delugs references explain their own sizing conventions. This article contains no physical fitting test and no verified replacement recommendation for a particular watch. The checklist is an editorial documentation aid.
For the attachment and closure dimensions, use the separate watch strap width, taper and buckle-fit guide. Material descriptions are covered in upper leather, lining and finish. More topics are listed in the practical guides directory.