Ultra-thin watches not only offer a discreet elegance that easily slips under a cuff, but also represent a remarkable feat of precision and craftsmanship. These timepieces embody the marriage of art and engineering, showcasing the horological industry’s pursuit of ultimate refinement. In this article, we present a selection of the best ultra thin watches that exude both style and technical prowess.
Each watch on this list has its own unique history and features, captivating enthusiasts with their slender profiles and innovative designs. While thinness remains a common characteristic, these watches offer much more than meets the eye. From distinct case materials to intricate complications, they demonstrate the manufacturers’ unwavering commitment to excellence.
Read on to join us on the journey exploring the world of ultra thin watches, their elegance, innovation, and enduring appeal.
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Ultra Thin Watches: A Brief History
Ultra thin watches represent a pinnacle of watchmaking mastery, combining aesthetic elegance and technological advancement. Their popularity can be attributed to the delicate balance between sophisticated engineering and refined design.
The history of ultra thin watches demonstrates the evolution of watchmaking techniques. In the early 20th century, watchmakers began exploring ways to make movements thinner. This quest was not only about aesthetics but also about enhancing the comfort and portability of watches. The movement towards slimmer designs coincided with the shift from pocket watches to wristwatches, where a thinner profile was more desirable and practical.
A significant milestone in this journey was the creation of the hand-wound caliber 9P by Piaget in 1957, which was only 2mm thick. This innovation set a new standard for thin movements and was followed by the automatic caliber 12P in 1960, measuring just 2.3mm thick. These developments showcased the possibility of combining slim designs with automatic mechanisms, challenging the traditional notion that automatic watches had to be bulky.
The allure of ultra thin watches is not just in their understated elegance, but in the awe-inspiring craftsmanship they embody. Crafting such watches demands unparalleled precision and innovation, where every millimeter demonstrates the watchmaker’s skill. The slim profile offers a sleek, subtle look that is highly coveted in formal settings and everyday wear. It also reflects the wearer’s deep respect for the intricate craftsmanship involved in reducing the movement’s size without compromising its functionality.
What truly distinguishes ultra thin watches from their traditional counterparts is their engineering marvel. Shrinking the size of a watch movement necessitates a complete reimagining of part arrangements and often the invention of new mechanisms. This can involve the use of micro-rotors or the integration of components directly into the case. The result is not just a time-telling device, but a testament to the ingenuity and problem-solving prowess of modern engineering and design philosophy.
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10 Best Ultra Thin Watches
Bulgari Octo Finissimo Ultra-Thin
The Bulgari Octo Finissimo Ultra-Thin watch is known for its sleek and minimalist design. It holds the record for being the thinnest mechanical watch in the world, with a thickness of just 5.15mm. The Octo Finissimo collection was first introduced by Bulgari in 2017, and it quickly gained attention for its unique and contemporary aesthetic.
Case size: 40mm
Case thickness:15mm
Movement: Self-winding Caliber BVL 138
The Octo Finissimo Ultra-Thin is available in various materials, including sandblasted titanium, black ceramic, and sandblasted rose gold. The use of these materials not only adds to the watch’s overall elegance but also contributes to its lightweight and comfortable wear. The titanium version, in particular, offers excellent durability and resistance to scratches.
Aside from its ultra-thin profile, the Octo Finissimo Ultra-Thin also features a mechanical movement with a power reserve of up to 60 hours. The watch has a sandblasted black dial with minimalist hour markers and hands, adding to its understated sophistication. Its sapphire crystal case back allows a view of the finely finished movement.
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Cartier Drive Extra Flat
The Cartier Drive Extra Flat watch is a modern take on the classic Cartier design. Introduced in 2018, it quickly became popular for its slim profile and refined aesthetics. The watch draws inspiration from vintage automobiles, with its cushion-shaped case and clean lines with a larger case diameter and incredible 6.6mm thickness.
Case size: 38 x 39 mm
Case thickness:6mm
Movement: Manual winding Cartier Caliber 430 MC
Available in white gold, steel, and yellow gold, the Drive Extra Flat exudes luxury and timeless elegance. The white gold version features a silvered dial with black Roman numerals and blue steel hands, while the steel version offers a more contemporary and versatile look. The yellow gold variant adds a touch of warmth and richness to the overall design.
In addition to its ultra-thin case, the Drive Extra Flat also features a manual winding mechanical movement. The movement, known for its reliability and precision, ensures accurate timekeeping with a 43-hour power reserve. The watch has a simple yet sophisticated dial layout, showcasing Cartier’s attention to detail and craftsmanship making the watch feel older than it is.
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Jaeger LeCoultre Master Ultra-Thin Date
The Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra-Thin Date watch combines classic elegance with modern functionality. The Master Ultra-Thin collection has a long-standing history, with its roots dating back to the 1900s. The collection has continuously evolved, and the Ultra-Thin Date model represents a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation.
Case size: 40mm
Case thickness:8mm
Movement: Automatic Caliber 219
Introduced in 2013, the Master Ultra-Thin Date features a slim profile and a refined design. Its stainless-steel case measures only 7.8mm in thickness, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a discreet and comfortable timepiece. The watch is also available in other materials such as rose gold and white gold.
One of the standout features of the Master Ultra-Thin Date is its automatic movement, with a 22k gold rotor and free sprung balance which is something you normally only see in sports watches. Combine that with the incredibly fast date window shutter and you have a sleek and precise timepiece on your wrist. The one downside to the thin profile is it only maintains a 38-hour power reserve.
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Patek Philippe Golden Ellipse Grande Taille 5738
The Patek Philippe Golden Ellipse Grande Taille 5738 celebrates the 50th anniversary of the iconic Golden Ellipse collection. The Golden Ellipse, introduced in 1968, has become a symbol of timeless design and proportion in the world of luxury watches. The Grande Taille version offers an enlarged interpretation of the classic Golden Ellipse.
Case size: 5 x 39.5mm
Case thickness: 9mm
Movement: Self-Winding Mechanical Movement Caliber 240
Released in 2018, the Golden Ellipse Grande Taille 5738 is available in two variations: rose gold with a black dial and platinum with a blue dial. The elongated and slender case measures 34.5mm x 39.5mm, making it a perfect choice for those seeking an elegant and distinctive timepiece. The total height of the watch with its minute movement comes in just shy of 6mm.
Beyond its thin profile, the Golden Ellipse Grande Taille houses a mechanical self-winding movement, which powers the watch’s hours and minutes with a stunning 48-hour power reserve. The watch’s dial showcases a simple design with applied baton indexes, highlighting the timeless aesthetic of the Golden Ellipse collection.
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Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Jumbo Ultra-Thin Openworked 50th Anniversary Rose Gold Men’s Watch 16204OR
The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Jumbo Ultra-Thin Openworked 50th Anniversary watch pays homage to the original Royal Oak Jumbo, which was introduced in 1972. As the first stainless steel luxury sports watch, the Royal Oak revolutionized the industry with its octagonal bezel and integrated bracelet design.
Case size: 39mm
Case thickness:1mm
Movement: Self-winding mechanical movement Calibre 7124
The 50th-anniversary edition, released in 2022, features a 39mm stainless steel case with a skeletonized dial, revealing the intricate mechanical movement inside. The watch combines a modern and openworked aesthetic with the iconic design elements of the Royal Oak collection.
Powered by a self-winding mechanical movement Calibre 7124, the Royal Oak Jumbo Ultra-Thin Openworked offers a power reserve of approximately 57 hours. The movement’s skeletonized design showcases the meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail for which Audemars Piguet is renowned.
The watch features a combination of brushed and polished finishes, enhancing its sporty yet refined appearance. With its ultra-thin profile and distinctive design, the Royal Oak Jumbo Ultra-Thin Openworked continues the legacy of the original Royal Oak, offering a modern and luxurious timepiece.
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A. Lange & Sohne Saxonia Thin Blue Copper
The A. Lange & Söhne Saxonia Thin Blue Copper watch stands out for its unique use of blue copper or goldstone, creating a stunning visual effect reminiscent of the night sky. Released in 2021, this timepiece showcases A. Lange & Söhne’s commitment to both technical excellence and artistic design only advancing the Saxonia Thin Collection originally released in 2016.
Case size: 39mm
Case thickness: 2mm
Movement: Manual winding L093.1
The Saxonia Thin Blue Copper features a 39mm white gold case with a mesmerizing blue copper dial. The copper material is coated with a thin layer of transparent blue lacquer, resulting in a deep and captivating color. The minimalistic design of the dial, with applied baton indexes and slim hands, allows the blue copper to take center stage.
Inside the watch beats an ultra-thin manual winding movement, crafted with meticulous attention to detail. The movement provides a power reserve of up to 72 hours, ensuring reliable and precise timekeeping. The transparent sapphire crystal case back reveals the exquisite finishing and intricate decorations of the movement.
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Jaeger LeCoultre Grande Reverso Ultra-Thin Steel Men’s Watch 277.8.62
The Jaeger-LeCoultre Grande Reverso Ultra-Thin Steel watch pays homage to the iconic Reverso collection, which originated in the 1930s. The Reverso is known for its reversible case, allowing wearers to flip the watch to protect the delicate dial.
The Grande Reverso Ultra-Thin Steel, introduced in 2011, retains the elegant Art Deco design of the original Reverso while incorporating modern elements. The stainless-steel case measures 46.8mm x 27.4mm, providing a generous canvas for personalization or engraving on the solid case back while still maintaining a universally comfortable 7mm thinness.
Case size:8 x 27.4mm
Case thickness: 7mm
Movement: Manual winding movement
Inside the watch ticks a manual winding mechanical movement, offering precise timekeeping and a power reserve of approximately 45 hours, a little on the lower side. The silvered dial features classic Arabic numerals and blue hour and minute hands, exuding a sense of timeless sophistication.
The reversible case of the Grande Reverso Ultra-Thin Steel not only offers protection but also presents an opportunity for personal expression. Wearers can choose to customize the solid case back with engravings, monograms, or even miniature paintings, making each timepiece truly unique.
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Piaget Altiplano Ultimate Automatic
The Piaget Altiplano Ultimate Automatic watch is one of the thinnest automatic watches in the world. Introduced in 2018, this timepiece showcases Piaget’s expertise in ultra-thin watchmaking. With a thickness of just 4.3mm, the Altiplano Ultimate Automatic is an impressive feat of engineering and precision.
Case size: 41mm
Case thickness:3mm
Movement: Manual winding movement Manufacture 910P
The watch features a 41mm case crafted from either white gold or rose gold, offering a luxurious and elegant appeal. Its minimalist dial design highlights the sleekness of the watch, with slim baton indexes and slender hands on an offset dial surrounded by a skeleton view of the accompanying movement. The movement powering the Altiplano Ultimate Automatic provides a power reserve of approximately 48 hours.
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Vacheron Constantin Historiques Ultra-Fine 1955
The Vacheron Constantin Historiques Ultra-Fine 1955 watch pays tribute to a vintage timepiece from 1955, showcasing the brand’s dedication to preserving horological heritage. Released in 2010, this timepiece embodies timeless elegance and refined, vintage craftsmanship.
Case size: 36mm
Case thickness:1mm
Movement: Manual winding movement Vacheron Constantin caliber 1003
At the time of its launch, this fine timepiece was the thinnest mechanical watch in the world at an incredible 4.1mm. It also held the thinnest mechanical wristwatch movement ever made measuring only 1.64mm thick.
The Historiques Ultra-Fine 1955 features a slim 36mm case available in either white gold or rose gold. Its minimalist dial design includes simple baton hour markers and slim hands, exuding an air of understated sophistication. The manual winding movement powers the watch and offers a power reserve of approximately 31 hours, the price you pay for an ultra-thin watch.
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Breguet Classique Extra-Thin Automatic 5157
The Breguet Classique Extra-Thin Automatic 5157 watch combines timeless elegance with exceptional craftsmanship. As part of Breguet’s renowned Classique collection, this timepiece exemplifies the brand’s dedication to tradition and refinement.
The Classique Extra-Thin Automatic 5157 features a slim 38mm case crafted from 18k rose gold or white gold at a nice thickness around 5.4mm. Its design pays homage to the brand’s iconic aesthetic, with a wide open dial and delicate welded lugs. The watch’s dial exhibits a hand-engraved guilloche dial with a hobnail pattern, elegant Breguet-style hands, and delicate Roman numeral hour markers on a thin and brushed finished outer chapter ring.
Case size: 38mm
Case thickness:4mm
Movement: Self-winding movement Breguet Caliber 502.3
At the heart of the watch beats a self-winding movement, the Breguet Caliber 502.3, known for its precision and reliability. The movement provides a power reserve of approximately 45 hours. The sapphire crystal case back allows a view of the finely decorated movement, including the intricate guilloche patterns and exquisite finishing.
With its classic design and slim profile, the Breguet Classique Extra-Thin Automatic 5157 is a testament to the brand’s heritage and mastery of watchmaking. It offers a sophisticated and refined choice for connoisseurs seeking an ultra-thin luxury timepiece.
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5 Best Ultra Thin Ladies Watches
Ultra-thin watches for women blend technical sophistication with elegant aesthetics, serving as both timekeeping instruments and fashion statements. These watches are ideal for various settings, from formal events to everyday sophistication. Here, we delve deeper into five exquisite examples, exploring their rich histories, distinct features, and the ideal occasions for their display.
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Patek Philippe Calatrava White Gold 4897G
The Patek Philippe Calatrava represents the zenith of understated elegance, first introduced in the 1930s. The 4897G model, crafted in pristine white gold, upholds the Calatrava’s legacy with its pure lines and refined grace. This watch features a guilloché dial that radiates from the center and a bezel set with 72 diamonds, combining precision with prestige. The case measures 33mm in diameter and has a thickness of 6.8mm, enhancing its sleek profile.
Its elegant design and sparkling adornments make it perfect for formal dinners, weddings, or as a sophisticated choice for business meetings. The Calatrava 4897G is more than a watch; it is a statement of luxury and timeless style, ideal for those who value subtlety and sophistication in their personal adornment.
Case size: 33mm
Case thickness:8mm
Movement: Manual winding caliber 215
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Piaget Altiplano Rose Gold Ultra-Thin Limited 300 Meteorite
Piaget’s Altiplano Rose Gold Ultra-Thin Limited 300 Meteorite stands as a hallmark of innovation and elegance in the world of haute horlogerie. Introduced as a tribute to Piaget’s pioneering spirit in ultra-thin watchmaking, this model features a mesmerizing meteorite dial, making each piece distinctly unique with its organic and intricate patterns. Encased in a luxurious rose gold frame, the watch measures just 6.5mm in thickness, underscoring Piaget’s expertise in crafting slender timepieces without compromising on style or mechanical complexity.
This watch is a testament to Piaget’s mastery and a work of art that attracts admiration. With a case size of 40mm, it balances a bold presence with an understated profile, making it suitable for high-end art events, exclusive gatherings, and elegant soirées. Its unique meteorite dial makes it stand out as a wearable art piece, ideal for those who appreciate the rarity and the stories embedded within their timepieces. This watch’s conversation-starting qualities and striking aesthetics make it a perfect accessory for occasions demanding extraordinary sophistication and confidence.
Case size: 40mm
Case thickness:5mm
Movement: Automatic 1230P movement
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Cartier Tank Americaine Mini Rose Gold Diamond Ladies Watch
The Cartier Tank Americaine Mini continues the storied tradition of the Cartier Tank series, originally designed in 1917 and inspired by the aerial view of a war tank. Over the years, the Tank has evolved, and the Americaine Mini variant, introduced to offer a more curved and elongated profile, showcases a seamless blend of history and modern refinement.
Crafted in rose gold and adorned with sparkling diamonds, this watch not only maintains the integrity of the original Tank design but enhances it with luxurious detailing. The case measures 20mm by 15mm and has a thickness of 6.8mm, creating a delicate yet noticeable presence on the wrist.
This exquisite timepiece is ideal for a variety of occasions. Its sophisticated design and dazzling diamonds make it perfect for gala events, opera evenings, or important business meetings where a statement of elegance is essential. Additionally, its timeless appeal allows it to serve beautifully as daily wear for the modern professional woman, adding a touch of luxury to everyday outfits. The Cartier Tank Americaine Mini is more than just a timekeeper; it is a piece of jewelry that reflects the wearer’s refined taste and appreciation for Cartier’s rich heritage in watchmaking.
Case size: 28 x 15.2mm
Case thickness:8mm
Movement: Quartz
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Patek Philippe Golden Ellipse 3548
Introduced in 1968, the Patek Philippe Golden Ellipse 3548 has become emblematic of sophisticated elegance, embodying the harmony of the “golden ratio,” a principle celebrated by artists and architects for centuries as an ideal of beauty. This model showcases a distinct elliptical shape that combines length and roundedness in a form that is both innovative and classically appealing. The Golden Ellipse’s slim profile, with a case thickness of just 5.5mm, enhances its graceful appearance, making it less obtrusive and exceptionally comfortable to wear.
The 3548 model’s minimalistic yet luxurious design, featuring a simple blue dial and gold casing, appeals to those who appreciate understated beauty. With a case size of 26mm, it strikes the perfect balance between presence and subtlety. This watch is not just a time-telling device but a piece of wearable art, making it particularly suitable for highbrow events like art auctions, exclusive exhibitions, or quiet evenings at classical music concerts.
It is a watch for connoisseurs and aficionados who value their accessories’ deep historical and artistic significance. The Patek Philippe Golden Ellipse 3548 is ideal for occasions requiring a touch of sophistication and intellectual appeal, celebrating a legacy of design purity transcending fashion for over five decades.
Case size: 26mm
Case thickness:5mm
Movement: Manual winding Patek’s Calibre 28-300
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Rolex Cellini Classic 5112
The Rolex Cellini Classic 5112 epitomizes the heritage of refined craftsmanship, a cornerstone of the Rolex ethos since the collection’s inception in the 1960s. Named after Benvenuto Cellini, the renowned Italian Renaissance artist, this line of watches is Rolex’s tribute to classical watchmaking. The 5112 model, in particular, is distinguished by its sleek yellow gold case which measures a slim 5.7mm thick, and a clear white dial that enhances its traditional aesthetic.
This model’s meticulous design, featuring a 32mm case diameter, captures the essence of elegance and simplicity, making it a quintessential dress watch for formal and ceremonial wear. Its understated appearance belies the precision of Rolex engineering. It offers a reliable manual winding movement, which resonates with purists who prefer the tactile interaction with their timepiece.
The Rolex Cellini Classic 5112 is especially suited for formal business events, elegant social gatherings, and cultural occasions like opera nights or classical music performances. It caters to individuals who seek a watch that reflects their sophisticated taste and appreciation for traditional craftsmanship, making it a symbol of status and refined style in settings that value heritage and discretion.
Case size: 32mm
Case thickness:7mm
Movement: Manual winding
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Best Ultra Thin Watches: Final Thoughts
The world of ultra-thin watches showcases the pinnacle of watchmaking craftsmanship, where precision meets elegance in the most delicate of forms. From the iconic designs of brands like Bvlgari, Cartier, and Jaeger-LeCoultre to the groundbreaking innovations of Piaget and Audemars Piguet, these timepieces represent the epitome of horological mastery.
Whether you appreciate the sleek simplicity of a minimalist dial, or the intricate complications hidden within their slim cases, ultra-thin watches offer a captivating blend of form and function. Their historical significance, unique features, and dedication to precision make them highly sought-after pieces for collectors and connoisseurs alike.
If you find yourself intrigued by the allure of ultra-thin watches, we invite you to explore the offerings of SwissWatchExpo. As a leading luxury watch retailer, we provide an extensive collection of meticulously curated timepieces, including a wide selection of ultra-thin watches from various renowned brands. SwissWatchExpo offers an opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of horological excellence and find the perfect ultra-thin timepiece to complement your style and passion.
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