Strap Sizing and Compatibility — Frequently Asked Questions

Taper is the difference in width between the lug end and the buckle end. A 20/16mm strap measures 20mm at the lugs and tapers to 16mm at the buckle. This tapering affects both wrist comfort and overall aesthetics. The visual effect varies based on case proportions, material, and the era of the piece.

Standard length is 115mm for the long section and 75mm for the short section, a measurement that fits most wrists. Those requiring different sizes can contact Milano Straps directly, or use the bespoke service Casati Milano by appointment at Via XX Settembre 15 in Milan.

Lug width is the distance in millimeters between the lugs of the watch case. It must be measured with a digital caliper, not a ruler. The strap must correspond exactly to this measurement: a 20mm strap does not fit a 22mm lug, as the springbar will work under stress and the visual proportions will be incorrect. The most common measurements are 18mm, 20mm, and 22mm.

For vintage watches with cases between 34 and 38mm, Nile Varanus is recommended: its fine grain does not compete with detail-rich dials. Teju adapts to broader contexts, from formal to smart-casual. Karung suits those seeking pronounced texture paired with minimalist outfits.

Milano Straps offers ready-made straps from 16mm to 24mm width at the lug, covering most wristwatches on the market. For particular sizes or geometries, the bespoke service Casati Milano is available by appointment at Via XX Settembre 15 in Milan.

The straps are compatible with most brands, including Omega, IWC, Seiko, and Panerai, as well as vintage and artisanal watches. For Apple Watch, straps with dedicated adapters are available. Compatibility always depends on exact lug width correspondence.

Drilled lugs are holes in the watch case lugs that allow for quick strap replacement without tools. They enable switching from a formal to a sports style in seconds, making strap changes a simple and independent operation.

Milano Straps provides the Watch Finder, a database of over 45,000 references that supplies the exact measurement for brands such as Rolex, Omega, Panerai, IWC, Tudor, and many other models. Alternatively, you can measure directly with a digital caliper.

Apple Watches are divided into two groups: small sizes (38mm, 40mm, 41mm) and large sizes (42mm, 44mm, 45mm, and 49mm for Ultra models). Milano Straps are supplied with the correct adapter for the chosen case and feature multiple adjustment holes to fit wrists of various sizes.