The designation 1 ¼” Buckle refers to the width of the belt that the buckle can accommodate. 1 ¼” is the newest of the common Sterling Silver Buckle sizes. In the late 1980’s, when I started in the Buckle business, it was still a custom size for most. As it is in the middle between the 2 more common sizes, 1” Buckles and 1 ½” Buckles, it offers the best of both. It is worn on a straight belt that appears wide enough, yet it is not so wide that the Buckles appear too large.