I'll say it again and again: The era of thin dress watches is upon us! Introducing thin models from Chopard, Jaeger-LeCoultre, and more

Thin watches, a testament to the high technological capabilities of various watchmakers, have become a popular genre in the watch industry in recent years. This time, we will focus on dress watches, perfect for formal occasions. We will introduce five carefully selected models with case thicknesses of 10mm or less from the current lineups of various watchmakers.

Enjoy high technical skill and elegance on your wrist with a slim dress watch

　Among the many different types of watches available, dress watches with thin cases are the perfect choice for enjoying elegance on the wrist. At the same time, thin cases are a symbol of the high technical capabilities of each manufacturer. In this article, we would like to recommend some of these thin dress watches.

Thin watches have become a trend in recent years, but how thick is a case considered thin?

　Speaking of recent topics related to thin watches, Bvlgari announced the Octo Finissimo Ultra COSC in April 2024, with a case thickness of 1.7mm. This model is currently the thinnest mechanical wristwatch that has been COSC-certified and is commercially available.

　Going back a little further in time, in April 2022, Bvlgari announced the Octo Finissimo Ultra, with a 1.8mm case thickness, as the world's thinnest mechanical wristwatch. However, in July of the same year, that record was broken by a watch released by Richard Mille with a 1.75mm case thickness. Then, as mentioned above, in 2024, Bvlgari announced a watch with a thickness of 1.7mm, reclaiming the title of "world's thinnest."

　The appeal of the Octo Finissimo Ultra COSC isn't just its incredibly thin and beautiful design. Made with just 120 parts, fewer than other brands, it's also COSC-certified as a chronometer, guaranteeing high precision. This simple watch, with a case just 1.7mm thick, is packed with Bulgari's latest technology.

　As such, in recent years, the watch industry has seen companies pursue "thinness," a mark of advanced technology. While the definition of a thin watch varies from company to company, it is generally considered thin when the case is 10mm or less thick, and ultra-thin when it is 5-7mm or less. In this article, we will focus on dress watches, which exude elegance, among such thin watches.

The charm of a slim dress watch exuding quiet elegance

　The appeal of a thin dress watch is first and foremost its comfort. It feels as if it is one with your wrist, and its light weight means it doesn't tire you out even when worn for long periods of time. Another benefit is that it doesn't interfere with the cuffs of a shirt or suit, giving it a clean, sleek look. The sophisticated look that is unique to a thin dress watch exudes a sophisticated elegance.

　However, due to its thinness, it is also delicate and vulnerable to shocks and magnetic forces, so care should be taken when handling it.It is something to be worn with elegance, with a demeanor befitting a refined outfit.

　This time, we have selected five thin dress watches from current models that are also practical. If you are considering purchasing one, we encourage you to experience their light and comfortable fit and choose the one that suits your wrist best.

Chopard "LUC1860" Ref. 168860-3003

　Chopard's "LUC1860" is a 2023 reissue of the watch of the same name, released in 1997. While the case was previously made of stainless steel, this reissue uses "Lucent Steel," which is made of 80% recycled steel. While an ethical material reflecting the company's environmental values, it is also characterized by its superior wear resistance and approximately 1.5 times the hardness of regular stainless steel. Additionally, its gold-like lustre makes it visually beautiful.

　The elegant and elegant salmon-colored dial features hand-crafted guilloched detailing. The reissue model also features a no-date display, giving it a classic look. The white gold wedge-shaped indexes and dauphine-shaped hands, which blend beautifully with the dial, as well as the soft gray leather strap, further enhance the elegance of this watch.

　The movement is the automatic Cal.LUC 96.40-L with a micro-rotor. Equipped with a gold bidirectional micro-rotor and twin barrels, it combines a thin case thickness of just 8.2mm with a practical power reserve of approximately 65 hours.

IWC Portofino Automatic, Ref. IW356523

　The IWC Portofino has undergone minor changes since its launch in 1984, but has since established itself as a staple collection of the company. It features an elegant and sophisticated design inspired by watches from the 1950s and 1960s.

　The minimalist Portofino Automatic, with only three hands and a date display, is a particularly popular model in the collection, as its simplicity makes it ideal for everyday use. It's a favorite among many business people as it pairs well with a suit. The stainless steel case is just 9.2mm thick, so it fits comfortably under a suit cuff. Another attractive feature is its relatively affordable price, even among models from Swiss luxury watchmakers.

　The movement is an automatic Cal. 35111 with a power reserve of approximately 50 hours.

　This model, which elevates a suit style, is also suitable for young business people looking to purchase their first fine watch. The deep blue face and black alligator strap make it a surefire choice.

Vacheron Constantin "Patrimony Manual Winding" Ref. 81180/000G-9117

　The Patrimony collection, launched by Vacheron Constantin in 2004, is renowned as the pinnacle of dress watches. Characterized by its slim case and beautiful curves, this collection is a modern reinterpretation of models produced by the company in the 1950s. Its extremely minimalist design defies bland simplicity, instead showcasing a sophisticated yet classical style.

　The flagship model of this collection is the Patrimony Manual-Winding, with a case thickness of just 6.79mm. Its high-quality, elegant, slim 18K white gold case is perfect for discreetly adorning a gentleman's wrist. What's even more noteworthy about this watch is its dial. The company's symbol is the Maltese cross, a combination of four wedges, but this model's indexes at 12, 3, 6, and 9 o'clock are wedges, creating a Maltese cross across the entire dial.

　The movement is Cal. 1400, which has a power reserve of approximately 38 hours. The fact that it is a manual winding, meaning the mainspring must be wound using the crown, also gives the impression that it is a dress watch for well-endowed adults.

Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Small Seconds Ref. Q1212510

The Master Ultra Thin collection embodies Jaeger-LeCoultre's exceptional technical expertise and aesthetics. The company has a long history of ultra-thin movements, dating back to 1907 when it developed the Cal. 145, which was just 1.38 mm thick. The company's challenge to create ultra-thin movements is a tradition that has continued uninterrupted since then.

　Among the collection's models, the Master Ultra Thin Small Second is a refined model that pursues symmetrical beauty. The small seconds hand located at 6 o'clock enhances its classic impression. Since small seconds allow the body to be thinner than a central seconds hand, this model will appeal to those considering a thin watch. The 8.1mm thick 18K pink gold case adds a subtle touch of elegance to its simplicity.

　The movement is the slim Cal. 896, which was crafted with precision in mind by artisans. Despite its slim design, it has a power reserve of approximately 43 hours and is water resistant to 5 bar, making it a dress watch suitable for everyday wear.

Rolex "Perpetual 1908" Reference 52509

　The Rolex Perpetual 1908 is a dress watch that was released in 2023. When it comes to the company's dressy collection, many may recall the Cellini, which was sadly discontinued in the same year. This new collection can be considered a replacement for the Cellini. The model name comes from the year the Rolex trademark was officially registered in Switzerland. The name itself shows that this is a model that makes a strong statement about Rolex's history.

　This model was inspired by the Oyster Perpetual, released in 1931. While the case has a similar design to the Oyster Perpetual, it features a slim bezel that combines domes and fluting, a thin 9.5mm 18K white gold case, and indexes with Arabic numerals and bars that were commonly seen in watches from the 1940s, giving it a modern finish reinterpreted as a dress watch.

　The design of this watch is filled with classic elements, such as a small second hand at 6 o'clock, but it is equipped with the company's latest Cal. 7140 movement. With a power reserve of approximately 66 hours and water resistance to 5 bar, it is safe for everyday use. This elegant, slim dress watch combines the company's tradition with the latest technology.