How to Install

Does Your Strap Fit My Watch?

Short answer: most likely, yes—as long as your watch uses a compatible attachment system and you choose the correct lug width, length, and thickness.

This guide explains how to check fit in minutes (no tools needed for the basics).

Quick Fit Checklist

  • Attachment type: Straight lugs, drilled lugs, integrated/unique lugs, or fixed bars?
  • Lug width: Measure in mm (e.g., 20mm).
  • Bar type: Standard spring bar, screw bar, fat spring bar, or quick-release?
  • Case clearance: Is there space for the strap thickness at the lugs?
  • Length: Match your wrist size (see chart below).
  • End style: Straight end, curved end, or integrated fit (for special cases).

If your watch is one of the “special cases” (AP, Cartier New Santos, Hublot, Panerai Luminor Due, IWC Pilot EasX-CHANGE, etc.), we offer integrated solutions designed specifically for those geometries.

1. Identify Your Attachment Type

  1. Straight Lugs (most watches)
    Two parallel lugs with a spring bar between them. Works with straight-end straps; some models look best with curved-end straps that follow the case.
  2. Drilled Lugs
    Same as above but with holes on the outside of the lugs—easier to remove bars.
  3. Integrated / Unique Lugs
    The watch case dictates the strap shape or uses a proprietary bar/connection. Examples:
    Audemars Piguet (Royal Oak), Cartier New Santos, Hublot (Big Bang/Classic Fusion), Panerai Luminor Due, IWC Pilot EasX-CHANGE, some TAG Heuer and Richard Mille.
    → You’ll need an integrated StrapFreak solution made for the model’s geometry.
  4. Fixed Bars (non-removable)
    Found on some military/dive watches (e.g., Tudor Pelagos FXD). Use pass-through/NATO or specially thinned straps.

2. Measure Your Lug Width (mm)

  • Use a ruler or caliper to measure inside lug-to-lug distance.
  • Common sizes: 18 / 19 / 20 / 21 / 22 mm (less common: 23, 24mm).
  • The strap width at the case = lug width. Taper (e.g., 20→16mm) refers to the buckle end.

Tip: If you’re between sizes, your watch is likely a half size (19 or 21mm).

3. Pick the Right End Style

  • Straight End: Works on most straight-lug watches. Clean, versatile.
  • Curved End: Follows the case profile for a tighter, more “OEM” visual.
  • Integrated Fit: Required for AP, Cartier New Santos, Hublot, Panerai Luminor Due, IWC EasX-CHANGE, etc. StrapFreak designs are model-specific for a seamless look and proper lock-in.

4. Check Your Bar Type

  • Standard Spring Bar: Most watches.
  • Fat Spring Bar (Seiko, some divers): Slightly thicker; verify hole size on strap.
  • Screw Bar: Common on Panerai, Hublot; you’ll need a small screwdriver.
  • Quick-Release Spring Bar: Little pull-tab built into the strap—tool-free swap.

StrapFreak straps can be ordered with the correct bar system for your watch.

5. Case Clearance & Strap Thickness
Some watches have tight tolerances at the lugs. Ensure :

  • Strap thickness at the lug fits under the case bevel.
  • No rubbing against the case or bezel.
  • Deployant/Clasp works with the strap taper and thickness.

If unsure, tell us your model — we’ll advise the ideal thickness profile.

6. Choose Your Strap Length

Use your wrist circumference :

Wrist (cm)

Wrist (in)

Typical Strap Length (mm)

14–15.5

5.5–6.1

105 / 65 (Short)

15.5–17

6.1–6.7

115 / 70 (Standard)

17–18.5

6.7–7.3

120 / 75 (Standard+)

18.5–20

7.3–7.9

125 / 80 (Long)

20–21.5

7.9–8.5

135 / 85 (XL)


Using a deployant? You may want slightly shorter lengths for a centered clasp.

7. Taper, Hardware & Finish

  • Taper (e.g., 20→16mm) gives a dressier look and lighter feel at the buckle.
  • Buckle/Clasp: Confirm end width (16/18/20mm etc.).
  • Edge & Stitching: Painted vs. turned edges; contrast vs. tone-on-tone stitching.

8. Water & Lifestyle Considerations

  • Daily wear / office: Chevre Sully, Epsom, Ostrich Leg — soft and refined.
  • Sport / humid climates: Hybrid Canvas.
  • Water contact: Choose Saffiano or Epi water-resistant leather (no full immersion for exotics).

9. Model-Specific Notes (Quick Reference)

  • Audemars Piguet (Royal Oak Offshore): Integrated geometry.
  • Cartier New Santos: Unique insert & end shape → integrated required.
  • Hublot (Big Bang / Classic Fusion): Screw/quick-release, unique ends → integrated.
  • Panerai Luminor Due: Screw bars & case contour → integrated or model-matched.
  • IWC Pilot EasX-CHANGE: Proprietary quick-release → model-specific.
  • Rolex & Omega (most models): Straight/curved ends with correct lug width; some require thinner lug profiles for perfect clearance.

If your model isn’t listed, contact us—we likely have a fitted solution.

FAQs

Q: I have an AP / New Santos / Hublot / Luminor Due / IWC EasX-CHANGE. Can I use a standard strap?
A: Generally no. Those watches need integrated straps. We make model-specific integrated luxury straps for a seamless, OEM-like fit.

Q: I’m between two lug widths (e.g., 19mm vs 20mm).
A: Your watch is likely the half size (19mm or 21mm). Order that exact width.

Q: Do your straps include spring bars or screws?
A: We can supply the correct hardware (standard, fat, screw, quick-release) for your watch—just select the option or tell us your model at checkout.

Q: What length should I choose?
A: Use the wrist chart above. If you wear a deployant/clasp, consider a slightly shorter length for a centered clasp.

Q: Can I swim with leather?
A: We don’t recommend full immersion for leather or exotics. Choose rubber or water-resistant options for water activities.


Need Help?

Send us your watch model, lug width, wrist size, and how you wear it (buckle or deployant).

Our team will recommend the best fit, thickness, and end style—including integrated solutions for complex models.