Choose your language
English
Choose your currency
€ - eur
Your cart is empty.
Geplaatst op 12-11-2025 door Marc Hut
In the watch world, one thing has consistently attracted attention over the past 10 to 15 years: ever-increasing diameters. Watches with diameters of 42+, 45+ and even 50+ have dominated not only shop windows but also online watch shops. Brands such as U-boat, Diesel, TW Steel and Invicta have attracted attention due to their size. However, the tide is turning. We are increasingly seeing 'small' becoming the new big style - and that is no coincidence. Check out why small & stylish watches are becoming more popular!
We may still be fond of models with a diameter of more than 45 mm, but according to various specialist watch blogs and fashion publications, a case diameter of around 36-38 mm is the new norm. Even sizes of less than 30 mm for ladies' or unisex watches are or are becoming very popular.
Citizen Surrato: case diameter 38.5 mm & very thin!
Fashion is very fickle: what is popular now may not be popular in a short time. Old inspirations and designs are rediscovered, and new ideas bring new styles, partly thanks to social media influencers.
The Citizen Surrato is only 4.7 mm thick
The fact that you can show off a slightly smaller and stylish watch again is also because wearability and comfort are considered very important. A smaller case is often more comfortable, especially for people with slim wrists or for anyone who doesn't want the watch to be too dominant.
Versace Daphnis ladies' watch: case diameter 32 mm
Fashion is increasingly turning to subtle details and timeless elegance rather than large and striking designs. Smaller watches are easier to integrate into both casual and formal outfits. They also go well with vintage-inspired looks.
Many classic watches from the 1930s to the 1960s had relatively small case sizes. The reintroduction of this ratio immediately evokes a sense of tradition and class. It is not only that smaller watches are back in fashion, but also that classic models are once again acceptable to wear.
Timex Marlin: not to big and very stylish!
Of course you shouldn't just get rid of your big XL watch. Who cares about fashion! The important thing is that you wear a watch that you like and feel comfortable with. It's all a matter of taste. Small but nice may be becoming more popular now, but a watch with a large case diameter will always stand out. It will attract a lot of attention. There will always be enthusiasts of sturdy, robust watches. And let's be honest: a wonderfully robust Citizen diver or a fantastic military watch is pretty cool, isn't it?
This trend fits in perfectly with a broader fashion development: less flashy, more classic. Smaller watches go effortlessly with both formal and casual outfits and are often inspired by vintage designs with a modern finish. For watch enthusiasts, this means more choice, more elegance and more focus on proportion.
Want to read more? Read also:
- Luminox Light Technology illuminated watches: How it works!
- Citizen surprises with Attesa Platinum Shine watches
- The 8 best Citizen watches up to £210