Watches that Prove Size Matters - Men's Folio
Time, Editor's Pick

Watches that Prove Size Matters

  • By Bryan Goh

Chris Hemsworth (pictured above) with his tousled hair, scruffy beard and Avengers-worthy physique is deemed one of the most rugged man on this planet. He owns a secret weapon that elevates his look though — a timepiece that’s as big as the life he lives (where does he find the literal time to mountain bike, surf, do carpentry, participate in Hollywood blockbusters and still look this good?


Before we introduce the season’s biggest timepieces, here’s a history on why size matters (sorry folks, we had to). Timepieces were traditionally 40 millimetres in diameter since the 1900s but it was only in the early noughts when they were super sized to larger-than-life proportions. However, watchmakers weren’t to blame because in an era where people were moving on from minimalism, the early noughts were characterised by maximalism trends like bling, frivolity and the Canadian tuxedo. Take Jay-Z for example in the picture above, his watch is pretty damn icy

Continue reading for five timepieces that are gargantuan enough for you to instantly check the time and even better if you’re an introvert, making it sizeable conversation starter — let them do the talking for you in the most stylish way possible. 


Tissot’s Seastar 1000 Dive Chronograph measures 45mm and can take one hell of a beating thanks to its stainless steel case. Divers will appreciate that they are able to wear it up to 300 metres deep but ordinary folks like us will appreciate its friendly price. 


The 42mm face of the Bell & Ross BR 03-92 Diver Black Matte isn’t the only reason we like it, it’s a form-meets-function timepiece — scratch-proof, lighter than steel and in case you’re sensitive, it’s hypoallergenic. 


The contrast of black and 18k Sedna gold might draw attention away from the Omega Seamaster 300m Chronograph’s 44mm face but its colour combination is guaranteed to make you look dressed up even when you’re at your most casual.


TAG Heuer’s Autavia Isograph measures at 42mm but its slim case won’t overwhelm even the skinniest of wrists. The straps can be changed with ease too (options include Nato canvas and leather) thanks to its quick release system which heightens its appeal. 


The Zenith Defy Inventor is a big boy at 44mm and its open worked blue dial will keep you entranced for hours. If you want us to get technical about it, 30 moving parts have been replaced and simplified with one to get this timepiece going — fascinating!