I use to think the same thing and still somewhat do until I tried on a tag Heur night diver black with white dial. Long lug to lug for my 6.5 inch wrist but to the eye the pvd case and white dial made it appear smaller. Actually wore pretty comfortably and looked great on the wrist.
i have a 6,5" wrist .. and i came to the result that the bracelet makes or brakes a watch for me.. even with 50mm lugs.. if the watch is on a leather strap it looks ok... but if on an integrated bracelet.. ( tissot prx) it looks like a damn wall watch on my wrist..
@@mike15. the Sub41s would be an example of that. They wear noticeably larger than the 40s. I think the skinny little bracelet on the Sub40s was the only thing holding the supercase back from looking massive. Now with the wider bracket we’ve crossed the like to what looks visually like a supercase XL.
wish i saw this video before i had to discover all of that on my own. i dont regret my lessons but this might save a lot of people from even more mistakes. great material
lug to lug is the most important for me. Having a thin and skinny wrist is a nightmare to find a watch that is not too big and comfortable as most of my favourite pieces tend to be 40+mm. After having tried many watches of different sizes, I now look for 38mm/45mm/11mm with curved lugs as a sweet spot.
Great material. Haven't seen this topic addressed in such detail or consideration anywhere. Thanks. For me, the dial size makes or breaks the look on my wrist, above all else.
Agree with you. My wrist is 16,5 cm & I always check lug to lug first because I think it's the most critical parameter of the comfortable wearing watch on your wrist. From my experience I try not to buy watches with lug to lug distance more than 48-49 mm. But not long ago I started wearing watch with long lug to lug (for me) at 50,5 mm & it fits great, comfortable. I must admit a lot of wearing experience came from case design, Hamilton at 50 mm lug not wearable for me, as some other watches, but this one sits great. I understand that it's very problematic to try every watch you want on your wrist in real life, but it gives you a 100% answer to how it sits on your wrist. Cheers
Absolutely agree.I have 50mm watches but from the front pov and my rounder wrist it looks ok for my wrist. Also one point to add is the depth or slimness of a watch. A slimmer watch seems smaller than a chunky watch as it sits very near to your wrist.
Great video with a comprehensive info regarding watch sizing. You're one of only two TH-camrs that tackled this topic properly. I have a 7.5"wrist and my sweet spot is 42-44mm depending on the many factors that you have mentioned. I like also how you explained how we perceive a watch size, which in my opinion is subjective. I'm tired of watching videos saying the trend of watches are going smaller and this is the right direction. I know a bigger guy can wear a smaller watch but in my eyes it looks like a lady's watch everytime I try one. There are quite a few of us with bigger wrists and also we are bigger guys, which also should be taken into account.
I use TH-cam as my main provider of inspiration when decide what watches to buy. Since there is great video material of almost any watch plus great reviews.
This is a great topic that I have given a lot of thought to. I agree with your assessment in specs and priorities. I have a 7.25" wrist, and have tried watches from 38mm to 44mm. As you said, it breaks down truly to dial diameter and Lug to Lug length, which should be compared to your wrist shape. I happen to have a flat wrist, so I can typically pull off longer L2Ls without a problem. In general, I try to stay in the 40-42mm range now, but the style of watch will change that. I have the Longines sector dial at 38.5mm (47 L2L) and find it to fit perfectly due to the very large and lightly colored dial. A diver with external bezel or even field watch with a thick solid "bezel" would not fit the same and would look smaller on wrist. I consider the Longines sector a dress watch, and my range is 38.5mm-40mm for large dial style (dress) watches. Chronographs need to be larger, 40-42mm, due to the busier dial, especially if it has different color subdials (panda). I have the hamilton Panda auto and find it perfect at 40mm (no external bezel), but also have the 2022 43mm Navi reverse panda and love the fit equally as well (internal bezel), as well as the CW c65 chrono at 41mm (external bezel) and find that it wears the same or a bit smaller than the Hamilton. For divers/GMT watches I really do prefer a vintage style at 39-40mm with an overhanging bezel at 40-41mm. Have the Glycine combat and DC4 at 42mm and love the fit (a bit more modern), but also the Glycine Chief and Zodiac SSW at 40mm and think they fit equally well because they are vintage styled. Also have the BB58 at 39mm, and for a diver this is definitely as small as I will go. It's unique because it somehow wears like a 40mm in my opinion, and the slab sides do add wrist presence. I also have the same Longines Spirit 40mm blue dial (your video helped to convince me thank you!!!!) and LOVE the fit of that watch. The 40mm diameter, dial size, and longer L2L I find absolutely perfect for my wrist, ideal dimensions. To break it down, diameter ragnes by style of watch makes the most sense, considering complications, dial color, and vintage vs modern design queues, as well as L2L ranges. For me 47mm is the shortest L2L I will go, and 52MM is the longest. That's how I pick at least! I confess that the Longines sector dial and Tudor BB58 recently opened my mind to smaller than 40mm watches, so as you said taste is fluid!
The Spirit is very very nice, the way it lays down on the wrist. Especially if you have 7.25. As for L to L, same for me, 52 max, but depends on the male links. As for the sector dial, I have to try it again. I just loved the profile of it. Thank you for your thoughts, Ryan :)
Great, great production, congratulations! I tried sharing your extremely informative video to some facebook watch-related groups, hopefully I'll get approved. I would also like to add that a very important, often overlooked aspect of getting the right watch for your wrist is the strap you're going to pair it with, from type to colour, from material to taper.
Good video. I have a slim 6.5 inch wrist and whilst I would say lug-to-lug and diameter are the most important considerations the height of the watch (beware protroding casebacks!) and lug angle have a big impact. Generally speaking 37-39mm diameter are best for me but I can get away with 40mm if the watch is not too thick and the lug length and angle are right. My 40mm Certina DS-2 is fine but the 40mm Tissot Visodate is too big really but I still love it. Distance between indices is important also (relates to dial size). If you have a small wrist widely spaced and/or oversized indices can look wrong even if the watch physically fits.
I have a 18cm wrist (7,1inch) and I Love wearing my Vintage 34mm Airking. But I also wear a Colt 44 and it feels just a little to big but it doesn't look as big as it feels. But I prefer 36-40mm.
Excellent advice. My wrist is a shade over 8", 20.6 cm. My best case size is 40-48mm, I can easily wear the biggest G-Shock Mudmasters. My smallest is a 39mm field watch but it has a long lug to lug so it doesn't look too small. I did get a lovely 37mm Orient Tri-star dress watch, but it looked like a button on my wrist. However not wasted as my wife with her 5.25" wrist confiscated it!
The quality of the content on this channel and the production are just 🤯🤯🤯 Andrei, you're doing an incredible job here. TBH, 15K subs is a criminally small number compared to what we get from you.
A useful technique I discovered is scaling an image of the watch to true size and printing it on paper so you can "try" the watch on. Of course this only gives you a 2D impression of the size, but it is helpful.
Agree with everyone pointing out the L2L as the most important parameter after the dial size. I wanted to add that those requirements also change based on the type of watch (diver, dress, chrono, etc). For example 42mm diver with thick bezel could easily wear smaller than 37mm all dial dress watch. Pilot watches are meant to be on the bigger side, so a 40-44mm diameter is acceptable (as long as the lugs don't overhang) but the dress watch with a clean dial with the same diameter would look ridiculous.
When I wear a watch, I always try to avoid anything over 47mm lug to lug. I enjoy seeing the lugs end and show some wrist on either side. My Damasko DS30 which is a lot of dial looks larger but, from my eyes wears well due to lug to lug. My Lorier Hyperion has a similar lug to lug of the Damasko but wears smaller due to the bezel and dial. Both wear great to me though because I like the lug to lug
I have been trying out some different styles and sizes to see first hand how they correlate. I really like a field watch (ie. explorer style) in 36-39mm. My Certina DS Action diver in 43 just feels right for a diver. When I try a smaller diver in that same sweet spot as the field watch it just doesn't work. Almost traded my Certina 43 for one of the smaller 38mm options. But so glad I didn't because of the "STYLE" of watch and other tangible differences such as the incredible DS Action bracelet. Probably the best bracelet on a dive watch ever imho.
great video and I completely agree with your points. The Dial Diameter is the most important measurement in my Opinion. That’s why most Seiko Watches wear that great. The Thickness of a watch is for me personally also very important. It should be ideally between 11-13mm. Everything other than that feels either too thick or too thin for me.
Very comprehensive. Thanks for the great video. Sold all my watches above 41mm and greater than 50mm lug to lug. We should wear the watch and not the other way around. Another factor for me is the lug design if it sits low on the case.
Lug to lug and dial size are absolutely the end all for size. For example I found the Hamilton Khaki field 38mm to wear too big on my wrist given its 48mm lug to lug and all dial design. Whereas the 44mm bulova oceanographer wears perfectly fine with its 45mm lug to lug and rather small dial to large bezel ratio. It’s really interesting the many little things that dictate how a watch will wear. It can make things a little confusing when you’re first getting into them, as I couldn’t for the life of me figure out how I found a 38mm hamilton too big lol
May I ask what is your wrist size? I’m looking to get the Hamilton Khaki Field 38mm too, but I’ve seen many people saying that the lug to lug size makes the watch bigger so I’m not really sure if would suit on my wrist. My wrist size is 6.7 inches
@@9thsense79 mine’s 6.5. I think you’ll be fine pulling it off. It wears like a 40mm watch. It was just a bit of a shock when I got it in as I was expecting it to wear similar to my Seiko SARB which is 38mm x 44mm. I’ve come around to it since writing this comment tho and its one of my most worn watches, you can’t go wrong with it. Just don’t expect it to wear like most 38mm watches
@@ichris2011 Your mention about the Seiko SARB interested me, and found out about the Seiko SARX along the way which looks beautiful to me, similar to a Grand Seiko in the white dial and blue hands. Getting off topic here haha but thank you for letting me know about not just your wrist size but also your experience with the Hamilton Khaki Field watch, I am sure that it is a beautiful watch worth getting if it ended up becoming your most worn.
Excellent summary! I agree with all of the points! :) what I may add/highlight is that the balancing on the wrist is helped/or not by the tappering of the bracelet/strap combined with the position at which one wears a watch (below or above the wrist bone - ulna :) ) and for the bracelets, in addition to the downward level of the lugs profile, the mid end-links (male or female) play a big role. cheers!
I think that's another topic to cover an entire episode, it is worth to discuss how tight a bracelet needs to be, where the clasp should be positioned. Thanks, noted :D
@@BraveBeaters yes! Clasp positioning is a nightmare especially if you have a limited number of removable links on the 6 o’clock side (cough cough … Tudor BB i am looking at you!!! 😡) which I like to be shorter than the 12 o’clock one so that when the clasp closes it centers it better this way. Also having pin and collars once you set it and realize the length is fine but in order to center the clasp you have to move a link from one side to another…. Is making me 🥜
This is a really good video, good to see something different from the gazillion other watch channels out there 👌🏼 OT: 38mm is my sweet spot but I found myself collecting the 44mm Seiko Samurais - love the way they look and they are deceptive, wearing much smaller than the diameter would suggest.
I could have used this video two years ago. ;) Good info- very helpful! My first watch purchase was done online and I didnt know anything about integrated bracelets. The 44mm watch wound up being way too big.
I ordered an MM300 hoage by San Martin and it's 44x50x14 millimeters. I have a 6in/15cm wrist, being a 170cm lean frame, and I only bought it because after trying the actual MM300 I was satisfied with the fit. It fits just like the SKX007 I already own, and I know the San Martin will fit even better because it's a whole 1.4mm thinner than the Seiko, with a bezel diameter 1.1mm smaller. Can't wait to get it!
I have fairly small wrists and prefer “smaller” watches but I love my 41mm Nomos Neomatik (that you showcased) because even tho it’s dial is quite large, it’s thinness of just about 7mm and it’s clean design make me feel like it’s wearing smaller. Usually I’d never go for a watch that measures 53mm lug to lug.. Goes to show that there’s definitely more to a watch’s size than just it’s diameter
Great guidance! What I'd add is one's preference for a slim, regular, or chunky watch. To use an analogy in clothes: It's one thing to find a size that fits your body measurements. But the preferred fit plays an important role too. A classic tailor might want to create a suit that's very well proportioned to one's body type and size, but fashion can go for a very skinny and tight fit, or for a baggy oversized fit. I sometimes wear my grandfather's 36mm Omega that's technically too slim and small (by today's standards), but it disappears beautifully under a suit and shirt cuff. Today, I rolled with my quite chunky Planet Ocean that's big and hefty - but I was wearing short sleeves and wanted to feel a bit like Daniel Craig in Quantum of Solace. Short story long: ideal sizing is key, but guys, be aware of your preferences for thinner or ticker watch fit too.
The case size and how much dial is contained within it is a very good point you've made. Was shocked how a 40 mm SRPE51 is wearing more towards a 38 mm and a Bambino that stretches the dial almost to the size of the entire watch looks considerably larger. As for your question on buying without seeing the watch, it can definitely be more of a miss rather than a Hit experience. I told you about that Direnzo watch once... Returned it after all. What you said, with getting all of the size specs together and measuring that to your wrist is probably the best chance to get it right. Cheers!
It is possible to balance the weight of the watch head by getting a larger clasp. For example, if your watch has a bracelet with a simple fold over clasp, change to a divers extension clasp. Also you could change a pin buckle clasp to a deployant clasp.
The thing when it comes to perception is that the classic watch wearers never took into account of smartwatches or maybe even G-Shocks. The general public are probably now more tolerant towards 42mm than most classic watch wearers realise. I am travelling through Thailand right now and this is honestly the land of G-Shocks, probably because the locals are so proud of the fact that it is made here. It's not uncommon to see someone with a 6 inch wrist sporting a 43mm 16mm thick G-shock here!
Great video and topic, I think you covered most of the important points. I think how the watch wears on the wrist is the design of the mid case and how the lugs curve down to hug the wrist. How I choose a watch that I haven't seen in person, is mainly based on whether I like the design/brand/quality enough and certainly factoring all of the points made on this video. The fun part of the watch journey is to figure out your sweet spot then you can decide what pieces would fit on your wrist without having too much buyers remorse! 😅
One of the most important aspects for me was highlighted with the Hamilton Chrono. I call watches like those "wrist rockers". If the lugs do not taper down very close to Caseback level, you'll have an uncomfortable wear & a look akin to an old tart with her legs in the air...ungainly. The best test is to lie the watch on a flat surface or check pics of the watch in that position. Once aware tho, the wrist rocker is easy enough to spot. Generally couldn't agree more about the Dial/Case ratio & Lug to Lug sizing. Male or Female Bracelet End Links are also crucial to wearability on larger watches, even the pin-hole positioning has a bearing with Staps. A millimetre here, a millimetre there can make all the difference with watches beyond your normal range. I'm expecting a new arrival tomorrow, a timepiece way bigger than anything I've contemplated before. I may update this comment :)
Great video answering many aspects of sizing. Would be interested to hear or see examples of how dial color affects visual appearance and does than contrast with skin color.
Great informative video! I don't know how many regrets I've had buying watches online as the on-paper specs can often be misleading. I found whether a watch looks big, or small on my wrist, depends on what I am used to having on my wrist. For example, if I have been wearing my 47-mm Seiko Tuna for a couple of weeks and then I decide to switch to my 33-mm Gagarin Sturmanskie it would be a big shock for me, not necessarily because of the small diameter, but more because of what I was used to having on my wrist before.
I would start with wrist width, (not circumference) it is where the watch has direct contact and would sit after all. From there the lug to lug will give me a general idea if it fits or if it’s over hang. Next for me is height anything below 13.5 i am fine. Lastly, the case design if it has enough room for comfort. The rest is appearance and proportions, i don’t mind top heavy watches…
Great advice, didn't know dial size is more impt than lug to lug but it make sense. Unfortunately dial size is not listed in the spec of the watches compared to the other 4 points.
I have a wrist double who ventures into ADs & shops for me. Yes, he does suffer from a bit of rsi due to some top- heavy pieces but on the plus side there's free coffee (& if v.lucky) bubbly & some safe flirting with the staff.
You nailed it on dial size over case size. The biggest disappointment in my current collection is a G-shock GA-2100 subvariant and the thing is 44mm across, but it has a TINY dial by comparison (my calipers say 32mm dial). Yet one more reason I don't wear it.
@@BraveBeaters Thank you very much. I believe you did an earlier video a while back featuring one of their tropic straps. I bought two of them after seeing it. Thanks for the pointer. Have a great day, Dennis
How you look at your watch when it's on your wrist also affects how large it appears. Watches appear larger when you're in "time telling" position (palm parallel to ground). Watches appear smaller when looking at your watch in front of a mirror (palm perpendicular to ground) because in this position your forearm muscle adds thickness to the ulna bone.
Hi, great video, one question, if I gave 19 centimeters wrist, whic would be the ideal size if the watch,, lug to lug and case size, the casio duro would it be OK or too big? thanks for help
Okay I understand the thickness measurement and the lug to lug. But where do the calipers sit to measure the diameter and face? Is it straight across including the crown of the stem. Or diagonal from like 11 to 5. And is the face Measurement the size of the Christal ?
Great video, mate! Any suggestions on G-Shock? G-Shock case are usually big, but the so called dial are kind off small. They are light weighted, but the height usually thick. It's an anomaly...
I do prefer smaller watches even though my wrist is 7 inches / 18cm Waiting for a DateJust 36...BUT have you seen the new Mark XX IWC? The lug to lug is 49mm, and 40mm case...I really hope I can pull it off, as I'm really tempted by this watch... something pure and classy about it... and if they bring out a metal bracelet like the Mark XVIII, then I'm possibly sold
That XX from IWC is such a tempting offering.... they finally somehow 'fixed' the silly date window with the dial changes, and the L2L is a tad shorter than before. I'd just get it man, life's too short.
i think there is a case size : case width : lug to lug : lug width ratio that suits my preference. If the case size is too small but the lug to lug is too but great, the result is like a longer watch. If the lug width is small on a big case watch it will make the watch look fragile on the wrist because of the thin strap.
I am a tall guy and was really disappointed to find out the rolex explorer 36 wears so much smaller... I really wanted that watch but after trying it on I have doubts. My wrist is almost 18cm and I have worn 36mm watches before and loved the size, but this one really wears smaller and now I think I will need to go for a second hand 39mm
Sorry, disliked in error but corrected with a like. Good video. Please consider doing a video on rectangular watches. I bought a Reverso during covid, not online but without trying it on from an AD. I had a huge problem with the fit, which was only resolved by having a custom strap made by Casa Fagliano. $500 lesson! Always try on rectangular watches!
@@BraveBeaters my advice is - try on, but go smaller. The lugs are long, so if the watch is too big it doesn’t sit on the wrist well. My wrist anyway, which is 7.25 inches. I went with a 46mm model, should have gone with 42mm. Casa Fagliano made me a strap with bolstered ends so that it flares out a little around the wrist instead of the standard strap which goes straight down. Hope that is understandable. Again, great video.
My biometric standard is that the width of your index and middle finger together should cover vertically and horizontally the watch case. If you see the dial or case overhang, then is too big!!
i have a 7.5 inch wrist, I am looking to buy a watch that is only available in 38mm case diameter with a 46 mm lug to lug. The watches are made on order and cannot be refunded from a microbrand called Anordain, I feel that the 38mm will be too small
I go for TH-cam reviewers and listen for keywords such as "it wears smaller or bigger"...and I then go back the case size and make my judgment. If that makes sense....
Lug to lug is the most important criteria in my watch considerations.
100% next to the dial, the lug to lug is the key.
Dial size is pretty key
I use to think the same thing and still somewhat do until I tried on a tag Heur night diver black with white dial. Long lug to lug for my 6.5 inch wrist but to the eye the pvd case and white dial made it appear smaller. Actually wore pretty comfortably and looked great on the wrist.
i have a 6,5" wrist .. and i came to the result that the bracelet makes or brakes a watch for me.. even with 50mm lugs.. if the watch is on a leather strap it looks ok... but if on an integrated bracelet.. ( tissot prx) it looks like a damn wall watch on my wrist..
@@mike15. the Sub41s would be an example of that. They wear noticeably larger than the 40s. I think the skinny little bracelet on the Sub40s was the only thing holding the supercase back from looking massive. Now with the wider bracket we’ve crossed the like
to what looks visually like a supercase XL.
Man so much research and work went into this. Incredible production 👏
Thank you M! ❤️ these are thoughts and hints collected in time but researched as well.
Hope it's helpful :)
@@BraveBeaters You deserve a lot more subs brother ❤️
@@SoCalWatchReviews I agree! :)
I’ve watched 5 other videos about watch fit. Yours is definitely the pinnacle of this category. Great job!
Excellent! Well elaborated, clearly explained and woderfully produced! Top notch!
wish i saw this video before i had to discover all of that on my own. i dont regret my lessons but this might save a lot of people from even more mistakes. great material
Thank you :)
lug to lug is the most important for me. Having a thin and skinny wrist is a nightmare to find a watch that is not too big and comfortable as most of my favourite pieces tend to be 40+mm. After having tried many watches of different sizes, I now look for 38mm/45mm/11mm with curved lugs as a sweet spot.
I started by listening to what you had to say, finished with getting sucked in with your sketches... Great art work mate!
Thank you :)
Great material. Haven't seen this topic addressed in such detail or consideration anywhere. Thanks. For me, the dial size makes or breaks the look on my wrist, above all else.
Agree with you. My wrist is 16,5 cm & I always check lug to lug first because I think it's the most critical parameter of the comfortable wearing watch on your wrist. From my experience I try not to buy watches with lug to lug distance more than 48-49 mm. But not long ago I started wearing watch with long lug to lug (for me) at 50,5 mm & it fits great, comfortable. I must admit a lot of wearing experience came from case design, Hamilton at 50 mm lug not wearable for me, as some other watches, but this one sits great. I understand that it's very problematic to try every watch you want on your wrist in real life, but it gives you a 100% answer to how it sits on your wrist. Cheers
Yes, agree Stanislav, in the end, if you have the chance to try them in reality, you can find long watches in specs that sit good on the wrist :)
Absolutely agree.I have 50mm watches but from the front pov and my rounder wrist it looks ok for my wrist. Also one point to add is the depth or slimness of a watch. A slimmer watch seems smaller than a chunky watch as it sits very near to your wrist.
Great video with a comprehensive info regarding watch sizing. You're one of only two TH-camrs that tackled this topic properly. I have a 7.5"wrist and my sweet spot is 42-44mm depending on the many factors that you have mentioned. I like also how you explained how we perceive a watch size, which in my opinion is subjective. I'm tired of watching videos saying the trend of watches are going smaller and this is the right direction. I know a bigger guy can wear a smaller watch but in my eyes it looks like a lady's watch everytime I try one. There are quite a few of us with bigger wrists and also we are bigger guys, which also should be taken into account.
I use TH-cam as my main provider of inspiration when decide what watches to buy. Since there is great video material of almost any watch plus great reviews.
haha! I am glad if you find relevant the content from the channel. hope you are never disappointed by the purchases :) Cheers!
This is a great topic that I have given a lot of thought to. I agree with your assessment in specs and priorities. I have a 7.25" wrist, and have tried watches from 38mm to 44mm. As you said, it breaks down truly to dial diameter and Lug to Lug length, which should be compared to your wrist shape. I happen to have a flat wrist, so I can typically pull off longer L2Ls without a problem.
In general, I try to stay in the 40-42mm range now, but the style of watch will change that. I have the Longines sector dial at 38.5mm (47 L2L) and find it to fit perfectly due to the very large and lightly colored dial. A diver with external bezel or even field watch with a thick solid "bezel" would not fit the same and would look smaller on wrist. I consider the Longines sector a dress watch, and my range is 38.5mm-40mm for large dial style (dress) watches.
Chronographs need to be larger, 40-42mm, due to the busier dial, especially if it has different color subdials (panda). I have the hamilton Panda auto and find it perfect at 40mm (no external bezel), but also have the 2022 43mm Navi reverse panda and love the fit equally as well (internal bezel), as well as the CW c65 chrono at 41mm (external bezel) and find that it wears the same or a bit smaller than the Hamilton.
For divers/GMT watches I really do prefer a vintage style at 39-40mm with an overhanging bezel at 40-41mm. Have the Glycine combat and DC4 at 42mm and love the fit (a bit more modern), but also the Glycine Chief and Zodiac SSW at 40mm and think they fit equally well because they are vintage styled. Also have the BB58 at 39mm, and for a diver this is definitely as small as I will go. It's unique because it somehow wears like a 40mm in my opinion, and the slab sides do add wrist presence.
I also have the same Longines Spirit 40mm blue dial (your video helped to convince me thank you!!!!) and LOVE the fit of that watch. The 40mm diameter, dial size, and longer L2L I find absolutely perfect for my wrist, ideal dimensions.
To break it down, diameter ragnes by style of watch makes the most sense, considering complications, dial color, and vintage vs modern design queues, as well as L2L ranges. For me 47mm is the shortest L2L I will go, and 52MM is the longest. That's how I pick at least! I confess that the Longines sector dial and Tudor BB58 recently opened my mind to smaller than 40mm watches, so as you said taste is fluid!
The Spirit is very very nice, the way it lays down on the wrist. Especially if you have 7.25.
As for L to L, same for me, 52 max, but depends on the male links. As for the sector dial, I have to try it again. I just loved the profile of it.
Thank you for your thoughts, Ryan :)
You and I are exactly in the same range.
Thanks for the great vid! Keep em coming ! 👍
I need that king square ;)
@@BraveBeaters sure! ;)
He got everything right. It must be the best video on the topic.
❤️
Great, great production, congratulations! I tried sharing your extremely informative video to some facebook watch-related groups, hopefully I'll get approved.
I would also like to add that a very important, often overlooked aspect of getting the right watch for your wrist is the strap you're going to pair it with, from type to colour, from material to taper.
Good video. I have a slim 6.5 inch wrist and whilst I would say lug-to-lug and diameter are the most important considerations the height of the watch (beware protroding casebacks!) and lug angle have a big impact. Generally speaking 37-39mm diameter are best for me but I can get away with 40mm if the watch is not too thick and the lug length and angle are right. My 40mm Certina DS-2 is fine but the 40mm Tissot Visodate is too big really but I still love it. Distance between indices is important also (relates to dial size). If you have a small wrist widely spaced and/or oversized indices can look wrong even if the watch physically fits.
Thanks, the distance between indeces is interesting. Indeed it matter how "open" is the dial
I have a 18cm wrist (7,1inch) and I Love wearing my Vintage 34mm Airking. But I also wear a Colt 44 and it feels just a little to big but it doesn't look as big as it feels. But I prefer 36-40mm.
Excellent advice. My wrist is a shade over 8", 20.6 cm. My best case size is 40-48mm, I can easily wear the biggest G-Shock Mudmasters. My smallest is a 39mm field watch but it has a long lug to lug so it doesn't look too small. I did get a lovely 37mm Orient Tri-star dress watch, but it looked like a button on my wrist. However not wasted as my wife with her 5.25" wrist confiscated it!
Hahahahaha nice one!
Yup, a mudmaster will look good on you, I'm jealous :)
The quality of the content on this channel and the production are just 🤯🤯🤯 Andrei, you're doing an incredible job here. TBH, 15K subs is a criminally small number compared to what we get from you.
Haha, thank you very much :)
A useful technique I discovered is scaling an image of the watch to true size and printing it on paper so you can "try" the watch on. Of course this only gives you a 2D impression of the size, but it is helpful.
Agree with everyone pointing out the L2L as the most important parameter after the dial size. I wanted to add that those requirements also change based on the type of watch (diver, dress, chrono, etc). For example 42mm diver with thick bezel could easily wear smaller than 37mm all dial dress watch. Pilot watches are meant to be on the bigger side, so a 40-44mm diameter is acceptable (as long as the lugs don't overhang) but the dress watch with a clean dial with the same diameter would look ridiculous.
When I wear a watch, I always try to avoid anything over 47mm lug to lug. I enjoy seeing the lugs end and show some wrist on either side. My Damasko DS30 which is a lot of dial looks larger but, from my eyes wears well due to lug to lug. My Lorier Hyperion has a similar lug to lug of the Damasko but wears smaller due to the bezel and dial. Both wear great to me though because I like the lug to lug
I have been trying out some different styles and sizes to see first hand how they correlate. I really like a field watch (ie. explorer style) in 36-39mm. My Certina DS Action diver in 43 just feels right for a diver. When I try a smaller diver in that same sweet spot as the field watch it just doesn't work. Almost traded my Certina 43 for one of the smaller 38mm options. But so glad I didn't because of the "STYLE" of watch and other tangible differences such as the incredible DS Action bracelet. Probably the best bracelet on a dive watch ever imho.
I only tried the 43 ds action on titanium and i liked it a lot, especially with the diving clasp
great video and I completely agree with your points. The Dial Diameter is the most important measurement in my Opinion. That’s why most Seiko Watches wear that great. The Thickness of a watch is for me personally also very important. It should be ideally between 11-13mm. Everything other than that feels either too thick or too thin for me.
Best watch videos period. Fantastic as always. Keep going pal!
Very comprehensive. Thanks for the great video. Sold all my watches above 41mm and greater than 50mm lug to lug. We should wear the watch and not the other way around. Another factor for me is the lug design if it sits low on the case.
I have a 16cm circ. flat wrist. My preferred size are 36-40mm diameter, max 14mm height and max 48mm L2L.
Yup, we are in the same range :)
Lug to lug and dial size are absolutely the end all for size. For example I found the Hamilton Khaki field 38mm to wear too big on my wrist given its 48mm lug to lug and all dial design. Whereas the 44mm bulova oceanographer wears perfectly fine with its 45mm lug to lug and rather small dial to large bezel ratio. It’s really interesting the many little things that dictate how a watch will wear. It can make things a little confusing when you’re first getting into them, as I couldn’t for the life of me figure out how I found a 38mm hamilton too big lol
May I ask what is your wrist size? I’m looking to get the Hamilton Khaki Field 38mm too, but I’ve seen many people saying that the lug to lug size makes the watch bigger so I’m not really sure if would suit on my wrist. My wrist size is 6.7 inches
@@9thsense79 mine’s 6.5. I think you’ll be fine pulling it off. It wears like a 40mm watch. It was just a bit of a shock when I got it in as I was expecting it to wear similar to my Seiko SARB which is 38mm x 44mm. I’ve come around to it since writing this comment tho and its one of my most worn watches, you can’t go wrong with it. Just don’t expect it to wear like most 38mm watches
@@ichris2011 Your mention about the Seiko SARB interested me, and found out about the Seiko SARX along the way which looks beautiful to me, similar to a Grand Seiko in the white dial and blue hands. Getting off topic here haha but thank you for letting me know about not just your wrist size but also your experience with the Hamilton Khaki Field watch, I am sure that it is a beautiful watch worth getting if it ended up becoming your most worn.
Excellent summary! I agree with all of the points! :) what I may add/highlight is that the balancing on the wrist is helped/or not by the tappering of the bracelet/strap combined with the position at which one wears a watch (below or above the wrist bone - ulna :) ) and for the bracelets, in addition to the downward level of the lugs profile, the mid end-links (male or female) play a big role. cheers!
I think that's another topic to cover an entire episode, it is worth to discuss how tight a bracelet needs to be, where the clasp should be positioned. Thanks, noted :D
@@BraveBeaters yes! Clasp positioning is a nightmare especially if you have a limited number of removable links on the 6 o’clock side (cough cough … Tudor BB i am looking at you!!! 😡) which I like to be shorter than the 12 o’clock one so that when the clasp closes it centers it better this way. Also having pin and collars once you set it and realize the length is fine but in order to center the clasp you have to move a link from one side to another…. Is making me 🥜
This is a really good video, good to see something different from the gazillion other watch channels out there 👌🏼
OT: 38mm is my sweet spot but I found myself collecting the 44mm Seiko Samurais - love the way they look and they are deceptive, wearing much smaller than the diameter would suggest.
thank you very much :)
The Samurais and the Turtles are fun, no matter the wrist size :)
I could have used this video two years ago. ;) Good info- very helpful! My first watch purchase was done online and I didnt know anything about integrated bracelets. The 44mm watch wound up being way too big.
I ordered an MM300 hoage by San Martin and it's 44x50x14 millimeters. I have a 6in/15cm wrist, being a 170cm lean frame, and I only bought it because after trying the actual MM300 I was satisfied with the fit. It fits just like the SKX007 I already own, and I know the San Martin will fit even better because it's a whole 1.4mm thinner than the Seiko, with a bezel diameter 1.1mm smaller. Can't wait to get it!
Awesome video Andrei. By the way - I'd really like to know more about that beautiful Nivada you showed us in the video!!
I have fairly small wrists and prefer “smaller” watches but I love my 41mm Nomos Neomatik (that you showcased) because even tho it’s dial is quite large, it’s thinness of just about 7mm and it’s clean design make me feel like it’s wearing smaller.
Usually I’d never go for a watch that measures 53mm lug to lug..
Goes to show that there’s definitely more to a watch’s size than just it’s diameter
Great guidance! What I'd add is one's preference for a slim, regular, or chunky watch. To use an analogy in clothes: It's one thing to find a size that fits your body measurements. But the preferred fit plays an important role too. A classic tailor might want to create a suit that's very well proportioned to one's body type and size, but fashion can go for a very skinny and tight fit, or for a baggy oversized fit. I sometimes wear my grandfather's 36mm Omega that's technically too slim and small (by today's standards), but it disappears beautifully under a suit and shirt cuff. Today, I rolled with my quite chunky Planet Ocean that's big and hefty - but I was wearing short sleeves and wanted to feel a bit like Daniel Craig in Quantum of Solace. Short story long: ideal sizing is key, but guys, be aware of your preferences for thinner or ticker watch fit too.
The case size and how much dial is contained within it is a very good point you've made. Was shocked how a 40 mm SRPE51 is wearing more towards a 38 mm and a Bambino that stretches the dial almost to the size of the entire watch looks considerably larger.
As for your question on buying without seeing the watch, it can definitely be more of a miss rather than a Hit experience. I told you about that Direnzo watch once... Returned it after all. What you said, with getting all of the size specs together and measuring that to your wrist is probably the best chance to get it right. Cheers!
I love that Certina in black dial with gilt indexes.👍🏼
It is possible to balance the weight of the watch head by getting a larger clasp. For example, if your watch has a bracelet with a simple fold over clasp, change to a divers extension clasp. Also you could change a pin buckle clasp to a deployant clasp.
Agree. a classic case is the seiko marinemaster.
The thing when it comes to perception is that the classic watch wearers never took into account of smartwatches or maybe even G-Shocks. The general public are probably now more tolerant towards 42mm than most classic watch wearers realise.
I am travelling through Thailand right now and this is honestly the land of G-Shocks, probably because the locals are so proud of the fact that it is made here. It's not uncommon to see someone with a 6 inch wrist sporting a 43mm 16mm thick G-shock here!
Great video and topic, I think you covered most of the important points. I think how the watch wears on the wrist is the design of the mid case and how the lugs curve down to hug the wrist. How I choose a watch that I haven't seen in person, is mainly based on whether I like the design/brand/quality enough and certainly factoring all of the points made on this video. The fun part of the watch journey is to figure out your sweet spot then you can decide what pieces would fit on your wrist without having too much buyers remorse! 😅
One of the most important aspects for me was highlighted with the Hamilton Chrono. I call watches like those "wrist rockers". If the lugs do not taper down very close to Caseback level, you'll have an uncomfortable wear & a look akin to an old tart with her legs in the air...ungainly. The best test is to lie the watch on a flat surface or check pics of the watch in that position. Once aware tho, the wrist rocker is easy enough to spot.
Generally couldn't agree more about the Dial/Case ratio & Lug to Lug sizing. Male or Female Bracelet End Links are also crucial to wearability on larger watches, even the pin-hole positioning has a bearing with Staps. A millimetre here, a millimetre there can make all the difference with watches beyond your normal range. I'm expecting a new arrival tomorrow, a timepiece way bigger than anything I've contemplated before. I may update this comment :)
Lug to lug and dial size! Sometimes a watch can wear much smaller or larger depending on the "ratio" of the two!
Great video answering many aspects of sizing. Would be interested to hear or see examples of how dial color affects visual appearance and does than contrast with skin color.
Great content and you hit it out of the park Andrei.
Dial to bezel ratio is often underlooked, thanks for pointing it out.
Great informative video! I don't know how many regrets I've had buying watches online as the on-paper specs can often be misleading. I found whether a watch looks big, or small on my wrist, depends on what I am used to having on my wrist. For example, if I have been wearing my 47-mm Seiko Tuna for a couple of weeks and then I decide to switch to my 33-mm Gagarin Sturmanskie it would be a big shock for me, not necessarily because of the small diameter, but more because of what I was used to having on my wrist before.
I do prefer smaller watches and for my small 5.9” wrist, the Oyster Perpetual 34 feels perfect
What strap is on the nivada at 0:58?
Is the new 7friends&watches canvas-rubber strap.
7friendsandwatches.com/p/rubber-and-canvas-watch-strap-cream/
I would start with wrist width, (not circumference) it is where the watch has direct contact and would sit after all.
From there the lug to lug will give me a general idea if it fits or if it’s over hang. Next for me is height anything below 13.5 i am fine. Lastly, the case design if it has enough room for comfort.
The rest is appearance and proportions, i don’t mind top heavy watches…
I love the sketches you did. What tablet are you using? Thankyou!
Thank you. it;s the remarkable 2.
Great advice, didn't know dial size is more impt than lug to lug but it make sense. Unfortunately dial size is not listed in the spec of the watches compared to the other 4 points.
I have a wrist double who ventures into ADs & shops for me.
Yes, he does suffer from a bit of rsi due to some top- heavy pieces but on the plus side there's free coffee (& if v.lucky) bubbly & some safe flirting with the staff.
Lug to lug mixed with the the dial opening is the only 2 dimensions that I really look at. Those affect the perception of how big the watch is to me.
Very interesting topic, very well treated ! Many thanks for this video !
Thank you :)
Thank you very much for mentioning the dial diameter. To me it's the most important spec.
I have one rule regarding size when looking for watches. The lugs can't protrude outside the width of the wrist. It just looks bad...
You nailed it on dial size over case size. The biggest disappointment in my current collection is a G-shock GA-2100 subvariant and the thing is 44mm across, but it has a TINY dial by comparison (my calipers say 32mm dial). Yet one more reason I don't wear it.
Really like that Nivada watch and strap -- can you share the specifics? Thanks
in the upcoming episodes, yup :) the rubber canvas is from 7friends&watches and the turqouise one is from Genteel handmade.
@@BraveBeaters Thank you very much. I believe you did an earlier video a while back featuring one of their tropic straps. I bought two of them after seeing it. Thanks for the pointer. Have a great day, Dennis
How you look at your watch when it's on your wrist also affects how large it appears.
Watches appear larger when you're in "time telling" position (palm parallel to ground).
Watches appear smaller when looking at your watch in front of a mirror (palm perpendicular to ground) because in this position your forearm muscle adds thickness to the ulna bone.
totally right on dial diameter vs case diameter , great observation!
Best video on this subject.
Great video! What's the name of the background music? Thanks!
Love this! What tablet did you use at 1:50 for the diagram?
Hi, great video, one question, if I gave 19 centimeters wrist, whic would be the ideal size if the watch,, lug to lug and case size, the casio duro would it be OK or too big? thanks for help
Awesome video. Excellent content as always.
Watch Sizing Master Class!!! Good!!👍🏻
Okay I understand the thickness measurement and the lug to lug. But where do the calipers sit to measure the diameter and face? Is it straight across including the crown of the stem. Or diagonal from like 11 to 5. And is the face
Measurement the size of the Christal ?
I have a 8 inch wrist and casio vintage like f91-w 158wa a700 look small on my wrist, will 168wa look decent on my 8 inch wrist ??
I would love to see a review on the Super Antartic featured here. Great video btw!
Lug to lug for sure. Then thickness in relation to dial/bezel ratio. Those are the things that create the optical illusions of good or bad fit.
Correct :)
What a great content. Thank you
i found that a 34-38mm and up to 46mm lug to lug size watch is best for me over the years of buying experience.
Superb Video! 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Great video, mate! Any suggestions on G-Shock? G-Shock case are usually big, but the so called dial are kind off small. They are light weighted, but the height usually thick. It's an anomaly...
I measured my wrist and it was 20cm or 8 inches. Would a 45mm watch work or be too big
after wearing that explorer 36 for some time , I imagine the Longines looks it has been at the gym :D
:))))))))) true!
I do prefer smaller watches even though my wrist is 7 inches / 18cm
Waiting for a DateJust 36...BUT have you seen the new Mark XX IWC? The lug to lug is 49mm, and 40mm case...I really hope I can pull it off, as I'm really tempted by this watch... something pure and classy about it... and if they bring out a metal bracelet like the Mark XVIII, then I'm possibly sold
That XX from IWC is such a tempting offering.... they finally somehow 'fixed' the silly date window with the dial changes, and the L2L is a tad shorter than before. I'd just get it man, life's too short.
@@gmshadowtraders thank you! Will try to try one on in York today
i think there is a case size : case width : lug to lug : lug width ratio that suits my preference. If the case size is too small but the lug to lug is too but great, the result is like a longer watch. If the lug width is small on a big case watch it will make the watch look fragile on the wrist because of the thin strap.
1. Put it on.
2. Look down.
3. If you feel happy, it is correct.
👌very well done video!
I am a tall guy and was really disappointed to find out the rolex explorer 36 wears so much smaller... I really wanted that watch but after trying it on I have doubts. My wrist is almost 18cm and I have worn 36mm watches before and loved the size, but this one really wears smaller and now I think I will need to go for a second hand 39mm
Sorry, disliked in error but corrected with a like. Good video.
Please consider doing a video on rectangular watches. I bought a Reverso during covid, not online but without trying it on from an AD. I had a huge problem with the fit, which was only resolved by having a custom strap made by Casa Fagliano. $500 lesson! Always try on rectangular watches!
Haha, I wanted to cover a bit the squared topic, but that's a different beast, but I will, let's see if I can buy a reverso or a santos soon
@@BraveBeaters my advice is - try on, but go smaller. The lugs are long, so if the watch is too big it doesn’t sit on the wrist well. My wrist anyway, which is 7.25 inches. I went with a 46mm model, should have gone with 42mm. Casa Fagliano made me a strap with bolstered ends so that it flares out a little around the wrist instead of the standard strap which goes straight down. Hope that is understandable. Again, great video.
Excellent video, thanks for sharing. ⌚
Nice drawings.
7" is almost 18 cm, isnt it?
Hi where to buy your writing board?
Awesome video 👌
My biometric standard is that the width of your index and middle finger together should cover vertically and horizontally the watch case. If you see the dial or case overhang, then is too big!!
i have a 7.5 inch wrist, I am looking to buy a watch that is only available in 38mm case diameter with a 46 mm lug to lug. The watches are made on order and cannot be refunded from a microbrand called Anordain, I feel that the 38mm will be too small
Good info.
Good job, my friend 🤜🤛
Thank you :)
For me, end-link to end-link first! Then lug to lug.
That's correct :)
I go for TH-cam reviewers and listen for keywords such as "it wears smaller or bigger"...and I then go back the case size and make my judgment. If that makes sense....
Great video. Very informative. Annoying background music though.
Great one!!
7" wrist -- still stuck debating between a 40mm and a 42mm type-B flieger...
Step one: you like it.
Step two: wear it!
I enjoyed your video, comrade
Not only the size of the wrist matters but also the height and age. The older and taller the person, the more massive jewelry he can wear
My major change has more to do with height. Thin has become most important.
The right watch size for me is the one I love and want to wear.
If I like the watch i buy it. That's it. I've found that only extremely small or large watches look out of place on my average size wrist.