Choosing my first square/ rectangular watch

Square watches have been a symbol of elegance and sophistication for decades. Their minimalist yet striking design has attracted me specifically and I would like to believe watch enthusiasts worldwide. In the realm of iconic classic square/rectangular watches, there are a few timepieces that to "ME" stand out from the rest.

FYI - I did not include the Heuer Monaco not because I don't like it but because it's a sports watch and I was looking for a dress watch

The Cartier Santos, introduced in 1904, was the world's first pilot watch. (Arguably the first mens wrist watch) It's square shape, exposed screws on the bezel, and distinctive Roman numeral dial make it instantly recognizable. The Santos has evolved over the years, showcasing advancements in watchmaking technology while maintaining its timeless appeal.

The Cartier Tank is another iconic square watch that has stood the test of time. Designed in 1917, it was inspired by the form and structure of tanks used during World War I. The Tank's square case, Roman numerals, and distinctive blued-steel hands showcase its refined style.

The Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso combines art deco design with innovative engineering. The reversible case of the Reverso allows wearers to flip the watch and protect the dial, revealing a personalized engraving or a second time zone sub-dial. Its shape and distinctive gadroons on the case edges give it a unique character.

Each watch has its own unique features and history, making them "coveted" pieces for "some" watch collectors or enthusiasts.

This decision took me over 2 years to make.....

Reply
·

If I was in that tax bracket I definitely would get a big Santos

·

Cartier Basculante is for me in this category as well

·
SimonB

If I was in that tax bracket I definitely would get a big Santos

Great choice! I found the proportions of the Santos medium best on my wrist, however I loved the look and feel for the Santos Dumont XL. That being said I do not think there is a wrong answer to this question 😁

·
Urkraft

Cartier Basculante is for me in this category as well

Yes! Very much so! however I am yet to come across one that I can try on and I'm not yet comfortable to buy grey market without trying it and seeing it.

·

From what you posted, I’m 100% in favour of the Tank Américaine. It’s simply gorgeous.

The only thing is to get the large because the medium is still really small.

Image
·
Davemcc

From what you posted, I’m 100% in favour of the Tank Américaine. It’s simply gorgeous.

The only thing is to get the large because the medium is still really small.

Image

I did like the Tank Americane a lot! Although (and this may be my fixation as I can see it looks great on your wrist) I found the large too big on my wrist and the medium too small for "ME". However it definitely falls in the category of Wow Watches (WW)

·

You can’t go wrong with any of those beatiful watches. I have always been fascinated by the Reverso. I went for the medium small second.

·
YourIntruder

You can’t go wrong with any of those beatiful watches. I have always been fascinated by the Reverso. I went for the medium small second.

I would add you can't go wrong with any Cartier Santos, tank or JLC Reverso as long as you are happy with the fit. Ultimately the most important thing is that the watch is comfortable and that the buyer likes it. I add some "facts" to rationalise me spending 💰 on another watch 😂. And.... I also went Reverso - Tribute Duoface 🤙

·

The Tank Louis is my attainable grail. £11k now in the UK which is a lot. But it could potentially be an exit watch for me.

·
WatchN2.0

The Tank Louis is my attainable grail. £11k now in the UK which is a lot. But it could potentially be an exit watch for me.

What is this exit watch you speak of 🤔

·
Maketimework

I would add you can't go wrong with any Cartier Santos, tank or JLC Reverso as long as you are happy with the fit. Ultimately the most important thing is that the watch is comfortable and that the buyer likes it. I add some "facts" to rationalise me spending 💰 on another watch 😂. And.... I also went Reverso - Tribute Duoface 🤙

The fit was the reason I decided to go with the medium. Technically it was OK with the large in terms lugs within the wrist but I felt the medium was more for my wrist.

·

I think that you will never get bored of a tank, and it never will be inappropriate in any situation.

·
Maketimework

What is this exit watch you speak of 🤔

Haha. It’s a fairy tale some of us still believe in here..

for now I’m enjoying my Santos medium and can’t speak highly enough of it. There’s not a bad Cartier option in my opinion.

Image

Scratch and all..

·

Gold tank looks perfect 👌

·

I truly admire square watches but I am saving a grand purchase like those above for the future so earlier this year I went for a compromise that I like very much. With a nod to history the Lip Churchill is the watch that Charles de Gaulle gifted to Winston Churchill after WW2. I have fitted mine with an aftermarket bracelet.

Image
·

The decision took you two years, ya for sure… you bought all three right?!!

Santos!!!

·

They’re all desirable aren’t they ? I personally like the Santos the best of the three .

·
Image

This is that other square watch the VC 1921 . This is the dress watch I most desire.

·

JLC Reverso is a stunning watch, but it sits surprisingly high on the wrist. You can't go wrong with any square Cartier, I have four and I'm not done yet! 👍

·

Go for Tank 😊👍 best choice

·

I have a 7.5" Strap, and have the Santos Large. No question themost versatile. Bracelet, sporty. Leather, dressy. Rubber, somewhere in between.

·

It has to be the Santos.

·

Im partial to the Reverso but you should get what you're fond of!

·

All of those are excellent choices. I'd choose the Santos but if money is no object, I'd choose the JLC.

·

Well the Tank Louis looks superb there.

·

Santos all day long, if it were me. That's a no-brainer! 😀👍

·

I'm a huge fan of the medium santos with white dial

·
Antoine62

I'm a huge fan of the medium santos with white dial

In my opinion it fit perfectly on my wrist, it also looked great. I opted to not go for it as I felt it occupied a very simlar spot to two other watches I own. But I can definitely say I like it even more now that I have tried it on.

·

All good choices if you ask me

·
watchobsessed

All good choices if you ask me

I went with the Reverso.If all are a good choice I can't go wrong. I originally wanted the tank Louis, however it was only available as quartz also when I tried on the Reverso I was in awe so went with the wow factor and will get the tank next time 😉