This article continues from .

Classic watches over 40mm

The standard size for classic watches is generally considered to be 36mm. For those seeking a larger size, The 41mm Datejust 2 was an alternative and in 2016, The Datejust 41mm was reborn with a more balanced design. Dress watches have now joined the world of watches over 40mm, Which was previously considered the domain of sports watches. What was the reason for this?

ⓒ Monochrome

It is assumed that the trend of more relaxed office dress codes has played a part. While a 36mm watch is considered classic and stable with a well-fitted shirt and suit, The 41mm Datejust completes the style in business or smart casual attire. The more casual color dials of the Oyster Perpetual lineup also expanded the range of choices, With a 39mm option in 2015 (now discontinued) and a 41mm lineup added in 2020.

Perhaps the increase in consumers' body sizes is also a factor. The average weight of American men, Who are the largest consumers of Rolex, Increased from 86kg in 2002 to 90kg in 2022. Experts predict this will continue to rise. Korean men have also gained an average of 3kg compared to ten years ago, Which may have influenced the trend toward larger watch sizes.

Ref. 126334 / ⓒ XUPES

The Datejust 41 inherits the dial space utilization of the 36mm model, Giving a fuller impression than previous models. It provides a stable and natural fit even on slender wrists, So wearing it instead of the 36mm does not feel excessive. This model focuses on balance. The thickness has been reduced by 0.5mm and the bezel is visibly smaller. Preconceptions about the cosmopolitan Jubilee bracelet have also diminished, Allowing for various styling options. Like the Submariner, The focus on balance means it no longer feels 'big and bulky.'

Currently, The VIVER app offers a variety of 41mm classic watches. Why not take a look?

Datejust 41 126300

41mm, Mint Green, Jubilee

Datejust 41 126334

41mm, Bright Blue, Jubilee

Datejust 41 126334

41mm, Mint Green, Jubilee

Datejust 41 126334

41mm, Slate, Jubilee

Datejust 41 126331

41mm, Chocolate, Jubilee

A more perfect harmony, Subtle but definite difference
Submariner 41mm

The iconic professional model, The Submariner. This model, Which already had a strong customer base, Was updated from 40mm to 41mm in 2020, Resulting in a significant market response. For the Submariner, Which maintains an unchanging design, Even a 1mm difference was big news, But when measured precisely, The actual difference is only 0.5mm.

However, The difference is clear. In the case of the Submariner Ref. 116610, It seems to be the result of finding a compromise as the trend in the sports watch market clashed with Rolex's identity. The Submariner is not as flashy as the GMT Master 2, So the maxi case emphasized its weight, But many felt that its sporty image was weakened. Opinions are still divided on its aesthetics, And there are users who miss the unique ruggedness of the Ref. 116610.

Ref. 126610

The updated Submariner Ref. 126610's design is a harmony of old and new, Free from the pressure of trends. The lugs and crown guards have returned to their slimmer appearance, Regaining their sharpness, And the difference is such that it even creates the illusion of being smaller despite being larger. Most notably, The 1mm wider bracelet and clasp provide balance to a watch that could otherwise appear oversized. When comparing the two Submariners side by side, The lugs and crown guards of the Ref. 116610 can make it look even larger than the new model. Can we say that aesthetic harmony has been achieved? The size has increased, But the improved balance has reduced any sense of burden. The focus on why the previous model was successful is similar to the design philosophy of the Datejust 41.

Submariner Date 116610LN

40mm, Black, Oyster

Submariner Date 116610LV

40mm, Green, Oyster

Submariner Date 126610LN

41mm, Black, Oyster

Submariner Date 126610LV

41mm, Black, Oyster

How much bigger will they get?

Ref. 126234 worn by woman

Women's watches have also evolved in size, With the 26mm size gradually discontinued from 2015 to 2017 and replaced by the 28mm Lady Datejust. Recently, There are examples of women using professional watches over 36mm as fashion watches. Although the difference is not striking, Watch sizes are gradually increasing, Making us curious about what changes the future will bring.