Watch Anatomy Vol. 21: Case Sizes Under 40mm! 6 Recommended Watches for Summer

Today we're introducing six recommended watches with case sizes under 40mm that will look great on your wrist this summer .
Models produced during the vintage generation typically had case sizes of around 30-36mm, even for men's watches, but it's still fresh in our memory that larger cases became the trend, led by Panerai, which led the "big and thick" trend. However, as the luxury watch boom has begun to subside, a trend known as "return to classicism" has recently emerged, and many people may be feeling a resurgence in "smaller diameter" watches. With many brands releasing a variety of models in recent years, this is likely due to an increase in options, as well as a demand for watches that are unique to others and the waning popularity of fashions.

This time, we would like to introduce some recommended watches with case sizes under 40mm that will look great on your wrist in the summer, so please enjoy until the end!

① [Patek Philippe] "Aquanaut Medium Japan Limited Edition" "Ref. 5066A-010"

Year of release: circa 1998 Collection concept: More casual and youthful than the Nautilus, it embodies a sporty, luxurious feel. Featuring a rubber strap, it features a design that is conscious of everyday use.

Basic specifications : Case size: 34mm
Case Material: Stainless Steel Dial Color: Blue Movement: Automatic Cal.330 SC
Power reserve: Approximately 48 hours Water resistance: 3 ATM

Recommended points: The small 34mm case size makes it comfortable to wear, and the combination of the blue dial and rubber strap is refreshing, making it the perfect watch for summer. The "exclusive" feel of being a Japan-only item makes it a recommended choice for collectors.

② [Rolex] "Datejust Thunderbird" "Ref. 16263G"

Year of release: circa 1988 Collection concept: "Datejust with rotating bezel." Nicknamed "Thunderbird," this watch combines a simple date display with sporty timekeeping functions.

Basic specifications : Case size: 36mm
Case Material: Stainless steel/18K yellow gold Dial Color: Blue gradient Movement: Automatic Cal. 3135
Power reserve: Approximately 48 hours Water resistance: 10 bar

Recommended points: The gold bezel adds a touch of glamour, and the blue gradient dial with diamond indices makes this a perfect summertime piece. The Datejust with its rotating bezel is popular as a cross between a dress watch and a sports watch, but it's also a popular choice as it's becoming less and less common on the market.

3. Rolex Oyster Perpetual 34, Reference 114200

Year of release: Around 2015 <br>Collection concept: The basic form of Rolex. A simple, basic model with an Oyster case and perpetual mechanism. As the successor to the "Ref. 14000M," it was manufactured as the "Air King" from 2007 to around 2014, and is a rare model in which the collection name has changed while the reference has remained the same.

Basic specifications : Case size: 34mm
Case Material: Stainless Steel Dial Color: White/Red Grape Movement: Automatic Cal.3130
Power reserve: Approximately 48 hours Water resistance: 10 bar

Recommended points: The small, lightweight case and white dial are cool and perfect for summer shirt styles. This particular model also comes with a beautiful red grape dial with a sunray finish, which is not available on the current model, making it a great value.

④ [H. Moser & Cie.] Streamliner Center Seconds "Ref. 6200-1200"

Year of release: Around 2020 <br>Collection concept: The streamlined case and integrated bracelet create a "smooth" sporty elegance. The signature is the matrix green fumé dial.

Basic specifications : Case size: 40mm
Case Material: Stainless Steel Dial Color: Matrix Green Fumé Movement: Automatic HMC 200
Power reserve: Approximately 72 hours Water resistance: 12 bar

Recommended points: The green dial, which changes its appearance depending on the light and viewing angle, adds a subtle touch to any wrist. The stainless steel integrated bracelet provides an exceptional fit, and is both luxurious and comfortable to wear. Recommended for those who want to stand out from the crowd.

5. Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Jumbo Extra-Thin, Ref. 16202ST.OO.1240ST.02

Year of release: circa 2022 Collection concept: The original luxury sports model designed by Gérald Genta. Characterized by an octagonal bezel and screws, and night blue with petite tapestry.

Basic specifications : Case size: 39mm
Case Material: Stainless steel Dial Color: Night Blue Movement: Automatic Cal.7121
Power reserve: Approximately 52 hours Water resistance: 5 bar

Recommended points: The popular "blue" dial with a luxurious design that stands out at summer resorts. The thin design makes it light to wear, and it is a masterpiece that combines luxury and fashion.

⑥ [Rolex] "Datejust 36" "Ref. 126234"

Year of release: circa 2019 Collection concept: A classic Rolex dress watch. The fluted bezel catches the light and creates a glamorous impression, and this model is robust and functional.

Basic specifications : Case size: 36mm
Case Material: Stainless steel/18K white gold Dial Color: Pink Movement: Automatic Cal. 3235
Power reserve: Approximately 70 hours Water resistance: 10 bar

Recommended Points: The classic 36mm Datejust size provides excellent comfort, and the fluted bezel and Jubilee bracelet enhance its presence as a dress watch. The pink dial and diamond-set Roman numerals at 6 and 9 o'clock are a striking combination, but their elegant design makes them a great addition to men's summer fashion. This is also a recommended watch for both men and women.

summary

What did you think?

All six watches featured here are under 40mm in size and feature colors and textures that shine in the summer. The Aquanaut Ref. 5066A features a refreshing and rare Japan-exclusive blue, making it appealingly light and comfortable to wear. The Datejust Thunderbird combines a 36mm size with a rotating bezel, and its blue gradient dial shines in the summer light. The Oyster Perpetual 34 shines with its clean white dial and ease of everyday wear, while the Streamliner's green fumé adds a touch of individuality. The Royal Oak Jumbo's thin 39mm and deep blue exude a sense of quality, while the Datejust 36's pink dial combines elegance with lightness. All of these watches will elegantly adorn your summer wrist.

If you're interested, we encourage you to come to a store and pick up an actual device. See you in the next column!
See you next time!!