42mm Titanium Chrono / Diver

Is size really relevant? Watches are advertised with a case size. Wearing them is often different to the specs.

Often I’m asked should I buy a watch, my response is always to try before you buy.

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When I first started buying watches size meant nothing to me,now its one of the most relevant things,it's a funny one because if you have a massively oversized watch from the get go you get used to it,and don't notice until you try a smaller watch that fits perfectly,but still with that your eyes play tricks because your used to wearing a monster,but then the feel takes over and you know what's good for you,can't judge them solely on size though like you say always try on always wear differently than you think 👍

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In this example we need a 'chunkiness' scale! If you stare long enough it's obvious they are a similar size in pure measurement terms but the Tudor is so much chunkier - the bezel adds significantly to that chunkiness!

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To my eye it's the % of the back of the wrist that's covered by the watch that matters. Being used to vintage and smaller watches in general anything that gets close to 80% looks big to me. 50% to 60% looks right. But it's completely subjective.

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I have a Steinhart 42 that I never had any issues with, slowly I started thinking it was too big for some reason.

The issue for me is the lug to lug, I have other 42's that fit like a glove.

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The tiffany on the iwc is awsome 🚨

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Johnnyr1970

In this example we need a 'chunkiness' scale! If you stare long enough it's obvious they are a similar size in pure measurement terms but the Tudor is so much chunkier - the bezel adds significantly to that chunkiness!

Yet the IWC is thicker but wears smaller

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watch.girl.life

Yet the IWC is thicker but wears smaller

Can't tell that from the pic. There's a lot of optical trickery being played on the eyes here! The bezel on the Tudor really draws the eye and makes it look huge, even though it's obvious the dial is smaller than the IWC.

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That’s a pretty IWC! 👍

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The primary watches I wear range from the smallest at 39mm up to 45.5. I find if the 39mm is a bit thicker or chunkier than it still has a presence on the wrist. The 39mm and smaller, if like a thin dress watch, then it's a big no for me. Too small. Looks like you're wearing a postal stamp.

The other key consideration? Strap or bracelet? That can really change how a watch feels or wears. Many variables to sort through.

BTW, the black dial IWC looks really cool.

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I purchased a Casio MDV-106 Duro 8-9 yrs ago before I really knew anything about the physical attributes of wristwatches (i.e. case size, lug width, etc.). It's a whopping 44mm and my bird-like wrist is a mere 6-1/2". At the time, I honestly didn't know that it was considered a "bigger" watch and happily slapped it on my wrist. As time went on, I started to learn more about those "physical attributes" from researching other watches online, and after buying a few more watches, determined that my "sweet spot" is in the 38-40mm range.

Luckily for me, my 44mm Duro seems to work; especially on a bracelet rather than a strap (for some reason?)! 👍

Sometimes, what is considered a larger watch can defy conventional thinking and actually fit a smaller wrist ... ya just have to try 'em on and see!

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Listed dimensions are a guideline, you should put on the watch and see how it looks and feels, then you know.

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My wrists are size turbo-small so case size and lug length are always points of concern.

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Some people care, some don't. I'm in the PSW (perfectly sized wrist) club and haven't really given a damn. But, if someone really does wanna know, you're right, the numbers on the spec sheet don't tell the whole story. Always a great idea to try before you buy, if available.

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Totally agree, I think it goes beyond the size too, it's the feel of the watch on your wrist that changes completely with every watch, if you can try on before buying it's a must but it's not always accessible.

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My rotation includes watches up to 44mm. I know that neither of those 42mm models will fit me because I’ve tried them on.

There’s much more to fit and comfort than size and specs.

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I love that Petronas IWC.

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Very wise words. I couldn’t agree more

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Johnnyr1970

In this example we need a 'chunkiness' scale! If you stare long enough it's obvious they are a similar size in pure measurement terms but the Tudor is so much chunkier - the bezel adds significantly to that chunkiness!

But when you try them both on, the FXD feels less chunky imo (it’s not as thick)

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Absolutely. I have that IWC and it has a very noticeable (to me) thickness of 14.5mm. On the other hand, I've tried on the Tudor Black Bay Pro and barely noticed its advertised thickness of 14.6mm.

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midpoint

Absolutely. I have that IWC and it has a very noticeable (to me) thickness of 14.5mm. On the other hand, I've tried on the Tudor Black Bay Pro and barely noticed its advertised thickness of 14.6mm.

I can agree. My point is the numbers are only a guide. Trying on gives the real experience. I picked up the Pro on Saturday. I have had it in my wrist every day since. Yes it is thick but wears well. All 3 are chunky watches all wear completely differently. Remember the titanium case makes the IWC/FXD feel lighter.

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redsix

But when you try them both on, the FXD feels less chunky imo (it’s not as thick)

Yes true. The FXD feels lighter depending on what strap you wear it with. Single pass or loop straps work best.

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UnsignedCrown

Huge watches are often comfortable, especially titanium or those that come on straps, but it doesn't make them appear less huge. If size is something that I think might be an issue, I go looking for a different watch... the ones I tried on were borderline at best.

Personally, when I spend a lot of money I don't want to "get away with it" but I want it to fit perfectly. So I guess for me the answer is yes, size does matter and takes second place in the order of importancr right behind price.

Yes agree with you.

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Westonvic

Listed dimensions are a guideline, you should put on the watch and see how it looks and feels, then you know.

💯 a guide is the best way to put it.

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Sluggo

The primary watches I wear range from the smallest at 39mm up to 45.5. I find if the 39mm is a bit thicker or chunkier than it still has a presence on the wrist. The 39mm and smaller, if like a thin dress watch, then it's a big no for me. Too small. Looks like you're wearing a postal stamp.

The other key consideration? Strap or bracelet? That can really change how a watch feels or wears. Many variables to sort through.

BTW, the black dial IWC looks really cool.

Thank you. I am not sure if I will keep it long term but it is cool and fun to wear

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Lug to lug, dial size and flat or bubble case backs for me make the biggest difference. A thicker watch with a flat case back will often sit lower and feel less top heavy than a thinner watch with a protruded vase back. Same as a smaller dial gives the impression of the watch been smaller than a watch with a thin bezel and a larger dial.

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watch.girl.life

Thank you. I am not sure if I will keep it long term but it is cool and fun to wear

May I ask why it may not hang around long term? I have it on my short list to be my second IWC in addition to my Mark 18. I tend to love lightweight watches and classics with a twist. Was thinking to could fit the bill? Maybe it’s just too much of a novelty?

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tonto0808

May I ask why it may not hang around long term? I have it on my short list to be my second IWC in addition to my Mark 18. I tend to love lightweight watches and classics with a twist. Was thinking to could fit the bill? Maybe it’s just too much of a novelty?

Don’t get me wrong it’s a great piece. I have goals to consolidate the collection. I haven’t decided yet. I have a few pieces to move in before I consider moving it.

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watch.girl.life

Don’t get me wrong it’s a great piece. I have goals to consolidate the collection. I haven’t decided yet. I have a few pieces to move in before I consider moving it.

Completely understand.

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ooooh nice combo, what size is your wrist?

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I want a 44mm Panerai because I like at least one behemoth of a watch , Already wearing a 45mm Casio so I know roughly how it looks to have on a chunky beastie. I like watches from 36mm up to and including a PAM00112 .