A 2mm difference between a 20mm strap and a 22mm strap is more significant than it sounds, and it affects the fit, proportion and feel of the watch on the wrist. More importantly, strap width is dictated by the distance between the watch’s lugs: it’s a compatibility factor rather than a size chosen by preference.
Whatever the width, a premium watch strap should fit the lugs exactly.
What Is the Difference Between a 20mm and a 22mm Watch Strap?
A 20mm strap is 20mm wide at the watch lugs, and a 22mm strap is 22mm wide at the same point.
That 2mm difference is more than visual. A wider strap will make a larger watch seem more balanced, and a narrower strap will make the same watch look more imposing.
Usually, 20mm and 22mm straps are not interchangeable, unless the watch or strap manufacturer has specifically offered a different fitment solution.
How Do You Measure Watch Strap Width?
Measure the inside gap between the lugs where the strap attaches to the watch case, in millimeters.
Another reliable source is the manufacturer’s specifications for the exact watch reference. Never assume the strap width from the diameter of the case alone. Case and lug design also vary, which is why two similar-sized watches can have different lug widths.
Does the Width of the Strap Have Any Effect on Comfort?
It can, but the effect differs from watch to watch, strap to strap and wrist to wrist. A wider strap will spread the contact out over a little more of the wrist, but this does not necessarily increase comfort. A stiff 22mm strap may not feel as supple as a soft 20mm one, at least at first. On the other hand, a wider strap with the right flexibility can make a heavier watch feel more stable.
Does a 20mm Strap Fit a 22mm Watch?
A strap that physically fits between the lugs is not necessarily the proper size.
When you install a 20mm strap between 22mm lugs, there is about 2mm of exposed space at the lug opening. The strap can slide to one side, the spring bar is less covered, and the combination can look undersized.
A strap wider than the lug opening presents another problem. A 22mm strap forced into 20mm lugs will be bent around the attachment point, which may affect proper installation.
When replacing a strap, keep the strap width in line with the lug width of that specific watch.
What Does Strap Taper Have to Do With Width?
Lug width refers to the width of the strap at the watch; however, many straps narrow toward the buckle or clasp. This decrease is referred to as taper.
For instance, a strap can be 20mm at the lugs and 18mm at the buckle. A 22mm strap may taper to 20mm, depending on the individual strap.
Taper affects the appearance and feel on the wrist. A bigger taper can make a strap look more refined, while a smaller taper keeps more visual weight towards the buckle.
That is why two straps with an identical 20mm lug width can wear very differently.
20mm vs. 22mm: Which Strap Width Is Better?
| Factor | 20mm Strap | 22mm Strap |
| Lug fit | For 20mm lug openings | For 22mm lug openings |
| Visual presence | Slightly narrower | Slightly broader |
| Typical effect | Can emphasize the watch case | Can balance a larger case |
| Comfort | Depends on construction | Depends on construction |
| Interchangeable? | Not normally with 22mm | Not normally with 20mm |
What Should You Check Before Purchasing a Replacement Strap?
Use the exact watch reference and double-check the width of the watch’s lugs. Next, examine strap length, taper, thickness, spring-bar specifications and buckle or clasp width. If you are reusing hardware, make sure it fits the replacement strap.
Some accessories (for example, appropriate spring bars and strap-changing tools) can make installation easier, but won’t fix an incompatible strap width.
The basic rule is that 20mm vs. 22mm is more about fit than style. Once the width matches the watch, the remaining dimensions and materials will dictate the appearance, feel and fit of the strap.
