We'll be introducing recommended models for mature men from among the so-called "big, thick" watches with large, voluminous cases. This time, we've selected five models from domestic and international brands, focusing on watches with case diameters of over 44mm. Small diameter models have become a trend in the watch industry in recent years, but why not choose a watch that stands out?

Text by Kento Nii
[Article published on January 29, 2025]
5 recommended large, thick watches for adult men
Trends in watch case sizes have changed over the years. In the 1950s and 60s, small diameter watches were the norm, but they gradually diversified with technological advances, the pursuit of practicality, and changing fashion trends. In the 2000s, watches with large diameters and thick cases, known as "big, thick" watches, became all the rage. Today, with a re-evaluation of classic styles and a focus on everyday wearability, the adoption of case sizes under 40mm in diameter is becoming a trend.
Although the trend may have run its course, the appeal of watches that have an overwhelming presence on the wrist has not diminished. They remain a popular and established style, and even in recent years, a wide variety of models have continued to be released by various brands. In this article, we will introduce models from both domestic and international brands that will allow you to rediscover the appeal of these large watches.
The five watches listed below were selected with a case diameter of over 44mm in mind, as well as several other considerations. First, despite their large size, they are made with lightweight materials and feature a short case length, ensuring a comfortable fit. Furthermore, from the perspective of being suitable for mature men, we focused on a luxury feel that is not too sporty and is suitable for a more sophisticated look.
In addition, all of these models are available for purchase at authorized retailers and are not overly rare or difficult to obtain, so be sure to consider them when choosing a watch.
Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean Ultra Deep Ref. 215.92.46.21.01.001
The Seamaster Planet Ocean Ultra Deep is Omega's pinnacle of diver's watches, boasting an incredible water resistance of 6000m. This series, which is based on the professional-grade timepiece that accompanied the historic 2019 expedition and reached a depth of 10,935m, features the Ref. 215.92.46.21.01.001.

Automatic winding (Cal. 8912). 39 jewels. 25,200 vph. Power reserve approximately 60 hours. Ti case (diameter 45.5 mm, thickness 18.12 mm). 6000m water resistant. 2,090,000 yen (tax included). (Inquiries) Omega Tel. 0570-000087
This model boasts an imposing case diameter of 45.5mm and a thickness of 18.12mm. The case is crafted from lightweight yet robust grade 5 titanium, and its specially shaped, short lugs, known as "manta lugs," ensure a comfortable fit suitable for everyday use. The entire exterior, including the ceramic bezel insert, is satin-finished, evoking a sense of power and understated sophistication.
The grey titanium dial, with its rugged look softened by cyan blue accents, has a matte finish thanks to the hardened coating, creating a strong contrast with the gradient-coloured seconds hand, Arabic numerals, and 18K white gold hour and minute hands and applied indexes, contributing to excellent legibility.
The movement is the Master Chronometer-certified Cal. 8912. It not only guarantees excellent magnetic resistance (15,000 gauss) and high precision, but also features a coaxial escapement for easy maintenance. The case back, which houses the movement, is engraved with the Sonar logo, symbolizing the company's commitment to the deep sea.
G-SHOCK "MRG-B2100B-1AJR"
The MRG-B2100B-1AJR, part of G-SHOCK's top-of-the-line MR-G, is a model based on the popular 2100 series with its octagonal case form, and is the ultimate in quality. While retaining the undeniable toughness and iconic design that are unique to G-SHOCK, it also pursues the aesthetics and texture of a luxury watch.

Tough Solar. Approximately 18 months of operation when fully charged (power save mode). Ti case (49.5mm x 44.4mm, 13.6mm thick). 20 ATM water resistant. 649,000 yen (tax included). (Inquiries) Casio Computer Customer Service Tel. 0120-088925
The distinctive case is meticulously finished and DLC coated. Finishing is essential for luxury watches, but the fact that a watch like this one can be so meticulously finished despite its complex shape is due to the multi-component case and bezel. The distinctive octagonal bezel is divided into 27 parts, each of which is polished to a high standard. Furthermore, to maintain the strength of a G-SHOCK, a "Multi-Guard Structure" is incorporated between the bezel parts and the case.

The case measures 49.5mm long and 44.4mm wide. At 13.5mm thick, it's thin for a G-SHOCK, but still feels large. However, by using titanium alloys such as "Cobalion," which is about four times harder than pure titanium, "Ti64," and "DAT55G" for the bezel, case, and bracelet, the watch achieves durability, a lightweight fit, and a beautiful appearance that will stand the test of time.
In terms of functionality, the watch is equipped with Tough Solar technology, time calibration signal reception, and Bluetooth® connectivity for smartphones. This allows users to adjust the time and other settings via their smartphones. Of course, it also boasts the 20-atmosphere water resistance and high shock resistance common to G-SHOCK, making it an impeccable watch for the sophisticated man.
Grand Seiko "Evolution 9 Collection Spring Drive Chronograph GMT" Ref. SBGC251
Grand Seiko's "Evolution 9 Collection" follows the design grammar of the "Evolution 9 Style." It aims to further develop the "Grand Seiko Style" and evolve the three elements of a watch: aesthetics, legibility, and wearability, creating "an accurate, easy-to-read, beautiful, and long-lasting Japanese watch." The Ref. SBGC251, part of this collection, features chronograph and GMT functions and is equipped with the company's proprietary Spring Drive movement.

Automatic Spring Drive (Cal. 9R96). 50 jewels. Power reserve approximately 72 hours. Bright titanium case (diameter 45.3mm, thickness 15.8mm). Water resistant to 10 bar. 1,595,000 yen (tax included). (Inquiries) Seiko Watch Customer Service (Grand Seiko) Tel. 0120-302-617
The case and bracelet are made of Grand Seiko's proprietary bright titanium, which has a lightness and bright color that belies its large size of 45.3mm in diameter and 15.8mm thick. The case, designed in accordance with the Evolution 9 style, not only has a low center of gravity, but also, combined with the wide, almost flat bracelet, provides an excellent grip on the wrist.
The face is also noteworthy. The dial is laid out with legibility in mind, and the monochrome design exudes functional beauty. The faceted indexes and hands, with only the GMT hand and GMT logo colored light blue, not only enhance legibility but also serve as a design accent. The practical design is sporty yet subdued, making it a watch suitable for the wrist of a sophisticated man.
The movement is the Spring Drive Cal. 9R86. It has a power reserve of approximately 72 hours and high precision, and the small second and chronograph seconds hands tick precisely to the second with a smooth sweep. The movement of the precision drive and rotor can be seen through the transparent case back.
IWC Big Pilot's Watch, Ref. IW501001
IWC's Big Pilot's Watches are a collection that strongly inherits the DNA of the tool watches that the brand produced in the 1940s at the request of the German Air Force.

Automatic winding (Cal. 52111). 31 jewels. 28,800 vibrations per hour. Power reserve approximately 168 hours. Stainless steel case (diameter 46.2 mm, thickness 15.6 mm). Water resistant to 6 bar. 1,161,600 yen (tax included). (Inquiries) IWC Tel. 0120-05-1868
Among these Big Pilot's Watches, the Ref. IW501001, as the collection name suggests, has a large case measuring 46.2mm in diameter and 15.6mm thick. This striking size and the conical crown, which can be operated even while wearing gloves, are iconic elements inherited from the original. Not only is it distinctive in terms of design, but it also contributes greatly to the excellent visibility, operability, and functionality essential to a tool watch.
Its simple monochrome appearance is reminiscent of cockpit instruments. The matte black dial, with its white hour and minute hands, Arabic numeral indexes, and triangular marker at 12 o'clock, creates a clear contrast, allowing for instant reading of the time. The approximately 7-day power reserve display at 3 o'clock and the date display at 6 o'clock are well-balanced, and the large dial itself makes this information extremely easy to read.
The movement is the Pellaton automatic caliber 52111, which boasts high winding efficiency. The twin barrels provide a power reserve of approximately 168 hours, and the power reserve indicator on the dial allows you to check the remaining winding of the mainspring at all times. The movement is also enclosed in a soft iron inner case, ensuring high magnetic resistance.
Rolex "Oyster Perpetual Deepsea" Ref. 136660
From Rolex, known as a pioneer of waterproof watches, we have picked the Deepsea diver's watch, released in 2008. Thanks to its unique patented Ringlock System, this timepiece is dramatically more robust while still fitting into a standard wristwatch case size, achieving an astonishing water resistance of 3900m.
The Ringlock system consists of a 5.5mm domed sapphire crystal, a grade 5 titanium case back, and a high-performance pressure-resistant ring made of nitrogen-alloyed stainless steel (blue ceramic for the 18K yellow gold model) placed between them. These three elements work together to effectively disperse and absorb water pressure, achieving a water resistance of 3900m in a case that is relatively small considering its performance, measuring 44mm in diameter and 17.7mm thick.

Automatic winding (Cal. 3235). 31 jewels. 28,800 vph. Power reserve approximately 70 hours. Stainless steel case (diameter 44 mm, thickness 17.7 mm). Water resistant to 3900 m.
In addition to the unidirectional rotating bezel with a black Cerachrom insert, it also features a helium release valve that safely releases helium gas that may have entered the watch during saturation diving.The hands and indexes are also coated with a Chromalight display that emits a vibrant blue light for a long time in the dark, making this a professional diver's watch with outstanding finishes.
The movement used is the Cal. 3235. It has been certified as a high-precision chronometer by Rolex, achieving excellent accuracy of ±2 seconds per day after casing, a power reserve of approximately 70 hours, and shock resistance and magnetic resistance that make it unaffected by the harsh environment of the deep sea, making it a highly reliable watch both at home and abroad.



