When choosing a watch, comfort is an important factor. And if you can't actually wear the watch, case size is often the deciding factor. However, the shape of the human arm varies greatly depending on the body type. This article explains the characteristics of the body types classified as "straight," "wave," and "natural." Additionally, we'll introduce recommended watches for each body type, using Grand Seiko as an example.
Photographs & Text by Mutsuyo Ito
[Article published on January 10, 2024]
Is there anything else to consider when choosing a watch besides case diameter?
When choosing a watch, many people may have asked, "What is the case diameter?" This is because by purchasing and trying on several watches, you can get a sense of the case size that feels right to you.
However, many people may not know why a particular case diameter fits their wrist best. Therefore, we will explain the recommended case sizes for each bone structure (straight, wavy, natural) based not only on the circumference of the wrist, but also on the cross-sectional shape of the wrist, the appearance of the bones and muscles, and the characteristics of the hand, using the wide variety of Grand Seiko watches.
How to choose based on your bone structure? Start with a simple bone structure diagnosis to find out your bone structure!
A bone structure diagnosis involves classifying your natural bone structure into three categories: "straight," "wavy," and "natural," and then determining the size of items that suit your bone structure and where to focus your styling.
People with a straight bone structure tend to have small hands with firm palms.
It may be difficult at first to determine which skeletal structure you belong to. However, rather than overthinking it, it's easier to understand if you show your hands to friends and acquaintances. You should be able to see the differences in skeletal structure just by looking at the hands.
The hands of a skeletal wave are of standard size and are nearly oval in shape.
Although it's a simple checklist, use it to self-diagnose which type of skeleton best suits yours!
The natural type has a solid skeleton, is larger in size, and has a cross section that is close to rectangular.
Try it out with Grand Seiko, which has a wide range of sizes!
Here we will explain how each of the three models with different case diameters fits different body types. Note that this time, we will use a wrist size of 16.5 to 17 cm as the standard.
Grand Seiko recommended for straight-framed watches: SGBA375
Automatic Spring Drive (Cal. 9R65). 30 jewels. Power reserve: approximately 72 hours. Stainless steel case (diameter 40mm, thickness 12.5mm). Water resistant to 10 bar. Price: 737,000 yen (tax included).
The recommended case size for a straight-framed watch is one that fits snugly against your wrist. When wearing the watch on your wrist, it's best to choose a case that allows you to clearly see the end piece and the first link. Link shortening is the norm, and it's best to choose one that fits one finger.
Grand Seiko recommended for wave-shaped body types: SBGW299
Automatic movement (Cal. 9S64). 24 jewels. 28,800 vph. Power reserve approximately 72 hours. Stainless steel case (diameter 36.5mm, thickness 11.6mm). Water resistant to 10 bar. Price: 638,000 yen (tax included).
The recommended size for the wave-shaped frame type is smaller than the exact size. This type has delicate bones and often has a thin wrist. It is okay to shorten the links to a size larger than one finger.
Although it is delicate, it fits comfortably as long as it can be supported by the ankle. On the other hand, if it fits too snugly, it may emphasize the thinness of your wrist too much and throw off the overall balance, so we recommend checking it in a full-length mirror.
Grand Seiko recommended for natural body types: SBGJ237
Automatic movement (Cal. 9S86). 37 jewels. 28,800 vph. Power reserve approximately 55 hours. Stainless steel case (diameter 44.2mm, thickness 14.4mm). Water resistant to 20 bar. Price: 638,000 yen (tax included).
The recommended size for natural bone type is a larger one. This type has a strong bone structure and can comfortably wear a larger size that extends beyond the arm. It is better to shorten the links to a size that is just right or larger. Since the bones of the ankles and the entire hand are strong, even if a larger size is worn loosely, it will look good when viewed with the whole body. This type is common in modeling.
Know your own bone structure and go out and find a watch that suits you
By knowing your unchanging bone structure, you can find out what type of watch suits you best. If you find yourself thinking, "Oh, I see... so that's why this type of watch suits me..." then dig deeper into your bone structure and incorporate it into your overall styling. A new world may be waiting for you. Why not try searching for a watch using new criteria?
Author profile
Mutsuyo Ito
A unique consultant specializing in watches and jewelry, she provides consultations and holds color seminars at event venues and boutiques, and also serves as a sales and customer service instructor.
Active color supervisor for a watch manufacturer. Holds numerous qualifications, including a J-color certified instructor, color therapist, and second-class watch repair technician. Representative director of parakeITO Co., Ltd.
HP:https://www.mutsuyo-ito-parakeito.com/
