Throughout the history of watches, there has always been a drive to make timepieces more accurate, durable, long-lasting, and portable. Being portable also means being smaller, but if a watch's diameter becomes too small, it's difficult to read the time. Therefore, the focus shifted towards creating slim watches, which also exude elegance. The second factor: the subject of slim construction requires engineering prowess and innovation. That's why particularly thin watches are considered on par with complications like the tourbillon.
All these brands are distinguished not only for their craftsmanship but also for their history, design philosophy, and contributions to the world of horology. If you're in the market for a slim watch, any of these brands would offer impeccable options.
From 2020 to March 2022, Piaget's Altiplano Ultimate held the title of the thinnest watch. With a height of just two millimeters, it achieves this using floating-mounted wheels and an hour disc beneath the minute hand. There's a tool for the flat crown which makes winding it faster. The watch is built to order and starts at 420,000 euros.
In March 2022, Bulgari surpassed the Piaget record with the Octo Finissimo Ultra, having a total height of just 1.8 millimeters. Hours, minutes, and seconds each have their own dials on the same level. Instead of a crown, there are two wheels for winding and setting. The watch costs 400,000 euros in a titanium case.
In July 2022, Richard Mille set the record with its RM UP-01 Ferrari, reducing the thickness to just 1.75 millimeters. This makes it the flattest mechanical watch in the world currently. To achieve this, among other things, they did away with the return pointer and the limiting pins for the anchor. It is wound with a tool via a recess on the front side. It displays the hours and minutes on a shared dial. Priced at 1.7 million Swiss Francs, it is also more expensive than its competitors
I don't want to add all timepieces to this thread but the following list of renowned watch brands (I maybe miss some, but take it as a base for it) known for crafting slim or flat watches. Here's a brief introduction to each brand, particularly emphasizing their reputation in producing thin timepieces:
- Patek Philippe: This Swiss watchmaker, founded in 1839, is renowned for its impeccable craftsmanship and innovative timepieces. They have a collection of ultra-thin watches, including some from their Calatrava range.
- A. Lange & Söhne: Based in Germany, A. Lange & Söhne has been producing luxury watches since 1845. Their Saxonia collection includes models that are notably slim.
- Breguet: Established in 1775 in France, Breguet is considered one of the oldest watchmaking companies. They're credited with the invention of the tourbillon and have some remarkably flat watches in their Classique collection.
- Vacheron Constantin: Founded in 1755, this Swiss watch brand is one of the most prestigious in the world. Their Patrimony collection includes ultra-thin models that are a testament to the brand's meticulous craftsmanship.
- Jaeger-LeCoultre: Established in 1833 in Switzerland, Jaeger-LeCoultre is known for its inventive timepieces. The Master Ultra Thin models are a highlight of their commitment to slim watch design.
- Blancpain: Another Swiss giant, Blancpain was founded in 1735 and boasts of the Villeret Ultraplate, a particularly slim watch.
- Audemars Piguet: Founded in 1875, this Swiss watchmaker is known for its Royal Oak collection, but they also have some ultra-thin models, showcasing their mastery in watch craftsmanship.
- Cartier: A French luxury goods conglomerate, Cartier, established in 1847, is particularly known for its jewelry and watches. Their Tank and Santos collections have featured slim designs.
- Chopard: Established in 1860 in Switzerland, Chopard is a luxury watch, jewelry, and accessories company. They have several slim designs, especially in their L.U.C collection.
It's uncertain whether we will see even thinner watches in the future, or if replica manufacturers will be able to produce watches with this level of precision and delicacy. However, I believe we will continue to see thin watches as a distinct segment. Thank you for your time and reading.
