Watch Faces - What is too big?

[MarcDominic]

I am looking at either getting a Tag Carrera or a Baume & Mercier Classima Executive (My range is $2000)

The Tag I like is 38.5mm. The Baum & Mercier watches I like, some are 39mm and some are 42mm. Is 42mm too big and gaudy? I'm thinking it might be.

Probably going get one with a steel band, as this would be the most versatile I think (I wear t-shirt and jeans lot when not in work clothes). I think I'd also purchase a tan colored ostrich or alligator leather strap to switch it up sometimes. Will this look stupid with black shoes and belt or, let's say, a black sweater. Or is that just too nitpicky?

1st watch is 38.5mm (Carrera). 2nd and 3rd are 39mm. 4th and 5th are 42mm.

Thanks in advance for any advice.

 

[MarcDominic]

Originally Posted by MarcDominic

I am looking at either getting a Tag Carrera or a Baume & Mercier Classima Executive (My range is $2000)

The Tag I like is 38.5mm. The Baum & Mercier watches I like, some are 39mm and some are 42mm. Is 42mm too big and gaudy? I'm thinking it might be.

Probably going get one with a steel band, as this would be the most versatile I think (I wear t-shirt and jeans lot when not in work clothes). I think I'd also purchase a tan colored ostrich or alligator leather strap to switch it up sometimes. Will this look stupid with black shoes and belt or, let's say, a black sweater. Or is that just too nitpicky?

1st watch is 38.5mm (Carrera). 2nd and 3rd are 39mm. 4th and 5th are 42mm.

Thanks in advance for any advice.

Sorry, atttachments wont show.

 

[acridsheep]

Depends on your size, and on the details of the watch in question. All of the watches you are contemplating are reasonably sized on all but the most diminutive wrists.

The Carrera is a true classic. Since you seem to gravitate toward lighter-faced watches, may I suggest another for consideration?

 

[Captain Winky]

Originally Posted by acridsheep

Depends on your size, and on the details of the watch in question. All of the watches you are contemplating are reasonably sized on all but the most diminutive wrists.

The Carrera is a true classic. Since you seem to gravitate toward lighter-faced watches, may I suggest another for consideration?

I believe that particular GMT has been discontinued, though I'd advocate spending a little more and going with an Aqua Terra. They retail for nearly $4k but can be had for about 1/3 off from an AD with little trouble. Also consider an IWC MK XVI Spitfire. I don't like it as much as the classic, but it has the light face (if they're still doing that version).

As to the size, I would say bigger than 42mm starts to look goofy unless your wrist is really large. Similarly, today anyting less than 36mm is a bit too small for all but the thinnest wrists. While my ideal is probably 38mm, my watches range from 38-40 and all fit me pretty well.

 

[500deadlift]

The brown strap B&M is beautiful.

 

[Bandit44]

As others have said, it depends on the design. Here's a 42mm Aqua Terra on my 7.75 inch wrist. It wears rather large since it is practically all dial.

My Seamaster Professional is 41mm, but looks much smaller.

And here's one that is 38mm.

 

[Miles Gloriosus]

That cracked leather is like the watchband equivalent of dad jeans.

 

[Prince of Paisley]

TF?

 

[ktrp]

I'd guess if you have average male wrists, 42 will look totally normal.

I have fairly small wrists, and I prefer 37-38.

 

[Phil.H]

Acceptable watch size diameters have been growing over the years...

40-42 is pretty much standard. I have small wrists myself and generally prefer the 36-38 size. As already noted, design will affect the look. I feel that 42mm with mostly dial showing is a little too big for me yet I tried on a 45mm watch recently that actually looked fine due to the design. Basically YMMV.

 

[erivs]

I think 42 is now considered normal. When the rolex sub was introduced in the mid fifties at around 40mm it was considered big, now with brands as panerai pushing 45mm+, 42 shouldnt really be that big of a deal. It is truly a matter of personal taste, but in my opinion the 45mil luminor on my (relatively thin) wrist looks fine.

 

[Twotone]

If you can not see your wrist beyond the end of the lugs, it's too big.

 

[erivs]

Forgot to say, great choices. IMHO if you're gonna use it as a daily all around watch, get the steel strap. Carrera black face all steel auto would be my choice. I think you can get it on amazon for around 1600$. Changing to the leather strap is more of a hassle, taking it to the dealer or watch repair shop.

 

[cafezeenuts]

I say 42mm is about the max size for an average wrist..

 

[JayJay]

Originally Posted by cafezeenuts

I say 42mm is about the max size for an average wrist..
I tend to agree. I hate oversized watches.