Lately, the tendency for big-sized watches has been increasing more and more. Watch lovers have pretty much fun wearing g expressive dials to show the whole beauty of the watch face. Personally, I think the big size of a watch is not the most important aspect in making the watch look expressive. While many people think that downsizing can be a bad thing, there are lots of watches that prove exactly the opposite.
Just think of it: if you think of a car, a smaller one will probably not be as attractive to you as a bigger one, right? The bigger version is more likely to provide you comfort, space, and even confidence, why not? In contrast, this philosophy does not always apply to the watch field. To prove that to you, I’ve compiled some watch models to show you that it’s not only about the size. Whenever the timepiece provides the right proportions, visual appeal, comfort, and enjoyment, the smaller size is by far a problem. So get familiar with the following beauties that once again prove that less (dimensions) is more.
Hamilton Khaki Field Murph replica watch
As a matter of fact, many watch lovers know this model from the fabulous Interstellar motion picture. But, the version from the picture was actually 42mm in diameter. And that’s not the model we are going to talk about. We are going to review the next iteration of this watch that has come recently in the 38mm version. The transition from 42 to 38mm gave the model a completely different look and feel, even if the basic design remained the same. Still, the smaller version conveys a more balanced spirit and looks far more compact and stable on the wrist.
Actually, the brand released the smaller version in response to the audience’s demands. Many watch lovers found the 42mm version too large for their wrists, and some wanted a classier spirit in this watch. So, it didn’t take long for the Swatch member to please the public. While the genuine version of the model is pretty affordable, priced at about $900, the replica version is even more accessible.
The truth is that replica manufacturers will produce the small version in a limited edition, so it’s better to hurry up if you would like to have this imitation. It comes with an automatic movement and 316l stainless steel case. I must say that the dial looks accurate and identical to the genuine model. looking closely at this replica, I can only spot a tiny difference in the dial finish. While the black dial of the genuine watch is slightly matte, the imitation comes with a bit shinier look. For the rest, replica manufacturers have done a good job. Well, the original model is not complex by its nature, so it wasn’t difficult to replicate I guess.
Blancpain Air Command Flyback Chronograph 36
This is another limited edition of replica models from Blancpain. The original model is simply phenomenal. I like the retro-vintage spirit and the modern proportions of this watch. While the genuine model comes in titanium, the imitation is available in 316 stainless steel. While the 36mm version is a scarce model, the 42,5 is a more commonly met option. But to be honest, the 36,2mm version simply rocks through its compactness and balance.
I must salute the great finish of the bezel insert in the replica version. It looks superb. Also, the blue of the dial looks pretty much like the genuine model. The only exception is that the dial is not as playful under different light angles as the genuine one. The original model’s dial transits smoother from bright to dark shades of blue. In contrast, the replica version’s blue is more “static”. In addition, the genuine version’s subdials have the same color font as the basic plate. On the other extreme, the replica option comes with 1 tone brighter in the subdials than the main dial.
In the same context…
Regarding the fluted bezel, I must say that the manufacturers have performed appreciable work. All the bezel teeth are uniform. Also, the white sealing of the leather strap is accurate and each sealing segment is identical to the rest.
The 36mm replica model is available in two options: clean stainless steel and gold-coated steel. If you intend to get such a watch, I’d recommend you opt for the stainless steel one. The first reason is that the steel couples better with the vivid blue of the dial and strap. The second reason is that I’m afraid the gold coating will begin to wear off within a couple of months. I’m not sure about the thickness of the gold coating. At least, visually, it does not inspire trust. In contrast, stainless steel comes with a pretty reliable finishing and it’s likely to preserve a decent look for a longer period of time.
On the wrist, the replica Blancpain 36 feels great, indeed. And believe me that I was reticent about the dimension when I first saw the watch. Once you put it on, it starts reflecting a sort of exquisiteness that is lacking with the 42mm version.
Tudor Pelagos 39
To me, Tudor has made a great move by introducing this 39mm option in the Pelagos family. It’s to only more wrist-friendly, but it also brings a fresh breath to modern dive watches. If referring to the authentic model, Tudor did not only reduce the size but also excluded the helium escape valve from the watch’s technical construction. As a consequence, the dive piece became water resistant for up to 200, as opposed to the previous models’ 500 meters.
Probably, the brand realized that the audience doesn’t take the watch to such depths, so it made it easier for all. Was it wrong? Definitely not. Fans didn’t complain about the change. On the contrary, they saluted the size adaptation, ignoring the technical changes. After all, Rolex is an option of choice for those who seek divers for deep depths.
Switching to the replica version…
The great news is that it comes in a Titanium case, just like the genuine one. Actually, our replica manufacturers have previously made another attempt with Titanium, it’s about the Pelagos 25600TN 42 mm. Without any sign of modesty, I shall say that it was a total success. Now, we got the 39mm version, and my expectations were met and far exceeded.
I embrace the polishing and brushing abilities of our replica manufacturers. Each time, they are getting better and better. That’s what I see in this Pelagos imitation, in which the case is accurately and professionally brushed, while its edge comes with a smooth polish.
In comparison to the 42mm Pelagos replica, the 39mm version comes with an enhanced lume coating. The bezel markers, just like the hour markers and hands look expressive and bright in dark conditions due to the Swiss-grade super-lume coating.
Technically, a Miyota 9015 is driving this Pelagos 39 imitation, and I’m completely satisfied with this manufacturer’s decision, as this movement registers the lowest servicing rate.
Generally speaking, Tudor watches have a specific spirit; they look and feel compact and well-built. Personally, I adore the “enough” sense of the brand. It always knows when to stop with millions of complications and design details. There is nothing odd in its watches, regardless of the model and collection.
Grand Seiko 44GS 55th Anniversary Limited edition SBGW289 36.5mm
I must be honest now: we don’t have the Grand Seiko 44GS 55th Anniversary Limited edition SBGW289 36.5mm in our replica store. And have no idea when and if we will have it. The point is that the manufacturers only produce 40mm and above Grand Seiko replicas for now. Still, I couldn’t omit to mention the 36.5 mm model in this list, in the hope that someday we will get an imitation of it.
You see?!
A 36,5mm watch would naturally be viewed as a ladies’ watch, wouldn’t it? And even ladies aren’t quite predisposed to such tiny pieces currently, considering the trendy tendency to big watches. Not to mention men, who rarely go under 38mm watches. Add a pink dial to such a watch and men will say you are crazy to consider such an option. Still, you have to take a look at this watch! And just imagine it on an elegant man wearing a jacket with rolled-up sleeves and this watch on his wrist. Delicious!
To begin with, the pink dial is not as pink as you can imagine. It’s pinkish, actually, and it looks stunning in its steel case. You just have to trust the big Japanese brand, as it basically created a gender-free option in the whole 44GS line. Yes, it’s out of the box, but sometimes we need to get there. Honestly, I can’t wait to see this model in its replica version as I’m eager to know how it looks and feels in reality.
Final thoughts
I think that adding a downsized timepiece in your election is a must, especially when your collection is full of generous models. Remember, it’s not always about dimensions, it’s about feelings and chemistry between you and your watch. With the above-mentioned models, their value hides in their overall appeal rather than in their dimensions. Try one on and see how it feels like when you choose to get out of your comfort zone. It’s an unbelievable feeling, trust me!