Check for marks around your wrist when you take the watch off. If you notice any irritated spots, try wearing the watch a notch looser next time. It’s usually better to err on the side of wearing your watch too loose than too tight. If it’s really tight, it can be painful or affect your circulation.
A great spot to position your watch is just above the wrist bone so that the watch face peeks out from under the cuff of a long sleeved shirt. [3] X Research source
Wear the watch face on top of your wrist for most casual or formal occasions. Position the watch face on the back side of your wrist to reduce glare, prevent scratches, or to check the time super quickly and discreetly. [5] X Research source
Other factors that affect comfort include the weight of the watch or the material of the band (metal links can pinch your skin or pull wrist hairs if they’re too tight).
Tighten the strap so it’s snug, but not so tight that it’s restricting blood flow or causing you pain or discomfort. It’s OK if the watch moves around a little bit as long as the sensors stay in contact with your skin. If it’s sliding around a lot, tighten the strap another notch. This rule of thumb applies to any smart or fitness watch like a Fitbit, Apple Watch, or Garmin.
If your watch is too loose, the sensors won’t be able to check things like your pulse or movement very accurately. If your watch is too tight, the extra pressure on your veins and arteries could make your watch think your pulse or blood pressure is higher than it actually is.
Mark the exact spot where the new hole needs to go so your watch fits comfortably. Use a leather hole punch, a drill, or a similar object to puncture the strap. Put on the watch to test the new hole for comfort.
Once the excess links are out, reconnect the band to the clasp or watch face and try on the watch to test the fit. A lot of times, metal watch bands come with extra links to accommodate many wrist sizes (it’s generally easier to take them out than to add them in).
Measure the circumference of your wrist for the right length (straps are usually measured in millimeters). Check the width of the old strap so your new one fits onto the watch face. Get a strap of the same quality as your watch. For example, you wouldn’t want a cheap rubber strap on a Rolex (unless that’s your style, then go for it!). Buying a new band or visiting a jeweler may be your only options if your band is a solid metal bracelet.
A jeweler is probably your best bet if the watch is very expensive, vintage, or a family heirloom.
Other people probably won’t be able to tell if your watch is too tight (unless it’s cutting off your circulation and your hand turns blue, which is a bigger issue!).
For the ultimate protection, wear your watch with the face on the inside of your wrist. A little wear and tear is normal. For fine scratches, just buff the watch face with a soft cloth and polish for acrylic or mineral crystal. Use a jewelers cloth to buff out scratches on a stainless steel band.
