No Mistakes: 4 Replica Watches For Large Wrists

Arnold Schwarzenegger and his Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore: this is the first image that comes to my mind when I think of large-sized watches. However, this trend belongs to the past. Even though purists don’t like to admit it, watches follow the rules set by fashion. The two most significant fairs of the year, SIHH and Baselworld 2019, made this clear: aside from vintage-inspired models like the Breitling Navitimer and the still-current trend of bronze watches, it was quite noticeable how the cases of certain models had decreased in size. This trend has been popular for some years now. But it is also true that every trend has a counter-trend, which is why we have chosen watches that measure more than 41 mm. We want to go against the grain and oppose the trend of smaller watches, just as Terminator opposed Skynet. After this last reference to cult cinema, it’s time to get serious: Which watches are currently best resisting the downsizing dictated by the watch industry?

Lange und Söhne Zeitwerk
Changing the subject from Terminator to the A. Lange und Söhne Zeitwerk is not exactly easy. The size of the Zeitwerk has less to do with images of strength, masculinity, and similar attributes. The case of this model is “extra-large” for practical reasons: the movement needs a lot of space—44.2 mm, to be precise. Apart from that, the watch features characteristics typical of German craftsmanship: elegance and lightness are reflected in its design, but also, and especially, in its functions. It is the first watch with a digital jumping numeral display and decimal minute repeater, distinguished not only by its large size but also by its sound effects, “visible” thanks to the two acoustic hammers on the dial. The latter is made of solid silver; the case is even made of platinum, and the indices are rhodium-plated gold. The price is also impressive: reference 147.025 costs about 300,000 euros on Chrono24, which corresponds to 7,000 euros per centimeter (of diameter). Extra-large in every sense.

IWC Big Pilot
You might now say that I lack imagination since I'm suggesting a watch that already has "big" in its name, but the IWC Big Pilot couldn’t be left out of this list. It is a pilot's watch that has been an integral part of the brand's lineup from Schaffhausen since 1940 and still contributes to its legendary reputation. The original model was designed with an unthinkable diameter of 55 mm, but it was never produced. The current variants boast dimensions of 46 mm. Not only is the case of this model very large and eye-catching, but the conical crown is also a noticeable element. However, this also has a practical side that relates to the Big Pilot's history: in the past, pilots needed a handy and easy-to-set crown. If the size alone isn't enough for you, then you might be interested in reference IW501005. The limited edition of 1,500 pieces has a 46 mm bronze case, a material that develops a very characteristic patina over time. Powered by the IWC 52110 automatic caliber (based on the IWC 52010), this model features a power reserve that can reach up to 168 hours. In this sense, it is a truly remarkable model, but who would dare go without such a beautiful watch for an entire week? The bronze-colored case combined with a calfskin strap does justice not only to the adjective "big" but also to the word "heritage" in its name.

Zenith Defy El Primero 21
If this article were about the longest reference numbers, then the first prize would go to this model. Reference 10.9000.9004/96.R921 is a 44 mm watch that, from an aesthetic point of view, would look great on the wrist of some basketball players, rappers, or actors. Although this is a target already occupied by brands like Audemars Piguet and the like, Zenith has no reason to be disheartened: the Zenith Defy El Primero 21 is so large that it cannot be ignored. The case is entirely made of carbon, and even the crown and pushers are made from this high-tech material! Only the rubber strap and clasp are not made of carbon, although they maintain its aesthetics. El Primero is a chronograph in a category of its own: in addition to its extroverted look, it has a beating heart that is the opposite of what could be called modest. Many even consider it revolutionary, and I dare not contradict this hypothesis. The El Primero caliber has always been known for its exceptional level of precision, a virtue that has become visible thanks to the transparent case back of the new El Primero 9004. However, it is the frequency of the new movement that promotes this chronograph to a higher class: the chronograph caliber, accurate to a hundredth of a second, operates at a frequency of 360,000 vibrations per hour, a speed never reached before, allowing the second hand to sweep across the skeletonized dial with exceptional consistency. A show you can’t miss! The Zenith El Primero is astonishing both inside and out and deserves a special place on our list.

Hublot Classic Fusion
Few brands manage to attract attention like Hublot, the manufacture revived thanks to Jean-Claude Biver. The Classic Fusion Titanium with reference 521.NX.1171.LR is also a chronograph and is powered by the Hublot 1143 caliber, enclosed in a 45 mm stainless steel case. Its technical qualities may not compete with those of a Zenith Defy El Primero, but the shape of the titanium case and the rubber strap at least allow for an aesthetic comparison between the two watches. Although its movement does not exceed 28,800 vibrations per hour, I believe Hublot wins in terms of "glamour." The round case with the six characteristic screws is the distinctive feature of the Classic Fusion. It is a model that appears quite sober compared to Hublot's other offerings: it does not display bright colors or a skeletonized dial. Although equipped with a black dial with subdials and a date display at 6 o'clock, the polished and satin-finished titanium case has a less sporty appearance than the Big Bang series models. The Classic Fusion has a water resistance of 50 meters and comes with a classic alligator leather strap: for this reason, it is not a timepiece suitable for every situation.

Conclusion:
The extra-large fashion trend, which reached its peak in the early 2000s thanks to various Hollywood stars, has come to an end once again. But who said you always have to follow the direction set by current trends? Some wrists are not made for the classic sizes of a 1960s or 1970s Datejust, and this has nothing to do with the desire to show off at all costs. As seen with some of the models presented here, certain functions simply require space. For other watches that do not boast this excuse, it is enough to say that various sizes always have a very specific reason. The important thing is that the watch is comfortable and enjoyable to wear.