First of all, I am really glad that the trend of "small" (or dare I say, the right size) watches is coming back.
I have been really excited to see a lot of new 40 mm watches and releases of smaller versions of bigger watches this year.
So, naturally, I started keeping the list of watches that I am going to stay on a lookout to come up with a smaller version. Here are the watches and the size I am hoping for:
Longines Hydroconquest GMT: 39 mm
It has a great movement and a very thin case for a GMT (12.90 mm). The reason that a lot of people turn away from Tudor Black Bay Pro 39 mm is its ~15 mm thickness. If Hydroconquest can keep its slim case and reduce its size down to 39 mm, I think it can be a serious contender to Black Bay Pro being $1,000 cheaper.
Longines Conquest: 38 mm
I really think Longines Conquest 41 mm is a great GADA. Especially, its thin case (10.90 mm) and 100 m water resistance make it a true go anywhere, do anything watch. However, the current collection only offers a rather large 41 mm and small 34 mm. I think somewhere in middle will be such a hit.
I am really hopeful that Longines will come out with a 38 mm version, considering its sister company, Omega, has 41 mm and 38 mm versions for similar GADA Aquaterra.
Mido Ocean Star GMT: 40 mm
Exceptional quality and dial for its price (~$1,300). But, it is a big watch with 44 mm diameter. I think reducing it down to 40 mm will create a monster in that price point.
And, I KNOW that Mido can do this looking at not-so-limited edition, Mido Ocean Star GMT Hodinkee Edition with 40 mm diameter. The same movement, the same greatness, but in a smaller case.
Bulova Lunar Lander: 38~40 mm
I really want to own the Bulova's high frequency perfectionist quartz movement. I personally think that it is as cool as Grand Seiko's Spring Drive, and I am very surprised that Bulova is not utilizing this movement as much. I had a high hope with Jet Star, but the design was not my cup of tea.
Also, I like Bulova Lunar Lander more than Omega Speedmaster "Moon Watch" just because I feel like every watch enthusiast owns a moon watch. Lunar Lander has an interesting story and heritage, and it will be a great way to experience the precisionist movement. But, knowing Bulova, I know it won't go down to 38 mm like Omega's Speedmaster Reduced, so I am asking for 40 mm.
Grand Seiko Any Models with Spring Drive Please**: 36~38 mm**
Honestly, for sporty-dress GADA watches, Grand Seiko's watches feel somewhat too big or bulky with all of their Spring Drive models going over 40 mm. I think if Grand Seiko release 36~38 mm Spring Drive, it will be able to bite a big chunk from Rolex OP, Explorer, Tudor BB 36, BB 39, and Omega Aquaterra 38.
Breitling Avenger: 40 mm
I know you are a big macho brand! But, I see a slight hope by looking at the Breitling Chronomat GMT 40. Even though I am a big fan of the Chronomats, I cannot love their Rouleaux bracelets. Maybe 40 mm Avenger will overlap too much with the Chronomat 40. But, it could be nice to have.
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So... That was my list. What is your list? I really hope some of these happen next year!
Vacheron Constantin Overseas. Would buy instantly if it was a tad smaller!