Hello everyone,
This time, we will be talking about something a little more niche : watch thickness, or case thickness .
When you hear "the thickness of a watch ," you might think, "That doesn't really matter," but in fact, it makes a big difference in how comfortable it is to wear and how it fits. This time, I'd like to talk about the thickness of a watch , which is a surprisingly important and indispensable point, and also weave in a story about how it feels to wear when you actually wear it.
We hope this will help you choose the watch that's right for you.
What is case thickness?
"Watch thickness" refers to the thickness of the case. *The following is written as [case thickness] .
What makes a difference is the movement and functions that are installed.
Generally speaking, "thin" means less than 10mm, and when it is less than 7mm it is also called "ultra-thin."
*Case thickness: [Approx. 6.3mm] "Ultra-thin" model
On the other hand, if the case thickness is 15mm or more , it is said to be "large thick."
*Case thickness: [Approx. 15mm] "Large thickness" model
When you actually compare them, you can see that their appearance is quite different, and since the way a watch looks changes depending on your wrist size and the balance of your entire body, it is very important to pay attention not only to the case size but also to the thickness .
Introducing the case thickness based on actual wear photos
Now, I will actually try on the four different sizes of watches and give you some commentary.
For reference, my wrist circumference is about 16cm. Please refer to the image to get an idea of the size for yourself.
Ⅰ. Case thickness: [Approx. 6.3mm]
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Ultra Thin TITANIUM "Ref.26586IP.OO.1240IP.01"
As the name Ultra-Thin suggests , the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin Titanium "Ref. 26586IP.OO.1240IP.01" is an impressively "ultra-thin" watch.
This masterpiece makes full use of Audemars Piguet's latest technology and is said to be the thinnest model of any watch equipped with an automatic perpetual calendar function.
The comfort is outstanding.
It's thin enough to fit neatly under a shirt sleeve, but with a case diameter of 41mm, it has a strong presence and will look good even on those with a larger wrist.
II. Case thickness: [Approx. 11.5mm]
Rolex Explorer I "Ref.114270"
The Explorer I is a classic Rolex model.
The case is about 11.5mm thick, which is neither too thin nor too thick, and is a standard size. It fits perfectly and is comfortable to wear on my wrist, which is 16cm in circumference.
On the other hand, since the case diameter is 36mm, it may feel a little lacking in volume for those with a wrist circumference of 18cm or more.
The average case thickness of luxury watches, as well as regular watches, is said to be 10mm to 13mm, so I think this is the most comfortable size to wear. I would especially recommend this size to those who are buying a luxury watch for the first time and are unsure about the thickness.
III. Case thickness: [Approx. 12.5 mm]
Rolex Daytona El Primero Black Dial SS "Ref.16520"
It is no exaggeration to say that the Daytona, one of Rolex's most popular models, is a well-balanced design in every aspect.
Like the Explorer I introduced earlier, the case thickness of 12.5mm is a standard size, making this a model that can be worn by anyone.
This one fits well on the wrist, but there is a slight amount of lift near the base of the case and bracelet. For my wrist, this thickness may be the limit. Of course, everyone's wrist is different, and it will vary slightly depending on where you wear it, so I recommend trying it on for yourself.
IV. Case thickness: [Approx. 15.0mm]
Rolex Sea-Dweller SS "Ref.126600"
The Sea-Dweller "Ref. 126600" was announced at Baselworld in 2017 as a model commemorating the 50th anniversary of the series' creation.
The case thickness of approximately 15mm is to be expected, considering that it is equipped with specifications that are sufficient to withstand deep sea depths of 1,200m, but as it is called ``super thick,'' the volume is indeed enormous.
It's quite difficult for me to wear this model, as my wrist circumference is about 16cm. If I were to wear it, I would need to do some rigorous training to increase my overall muscle strength (lol).
By the way, it can dive deeper than the Sea-Dweller.
"Rolex Deepsea D Blue SS Ref.126660"
Case thickness : Approximately 18mm , making this an "extra thick" model.
It's water resistant to an astounding 3,900m. Its thickness is easy to see why.
summary
That's all, what do you think?
When choosing a luxury watch, comfort is very important. Case thickness is one of the major factors that affect comfort. It goes without saying that knowing the case thickness that suits you, including the overall balance, will help you wear the watch stylishly.
Although it's an aspect that doesn't get much attention, I think it's interesting to look at luxury watches from this angle.
see you!!