Fratello Friday: Top 5 Rectangular Watches I Might Wear


In my modest collection of watches, there is not a single one with a rectangular case; the only non-round one is the octagonal Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Extra-Thin. Nevertheless, since rectangular-case watches do have their fans, this week’s Fratello Friday focuses on the top five I would wear… if I did indeed wear them.

My issue with rectangular watches is that I find them just a bit too “classical” for my taste. A watch with this type of design doesn’t usually suit me, especially if I am wearing short sleeves, such as a polo shirt, as I often do. The strange thing is, when I see myself in the mirror wearing a rectangular watch, I usually do like how it looks, but when I look back at my wrist, I’d rather take the watch off as quickly as possible. Perhaps even more strangely, I like how they look on other men’s wrists, just not my own. Does anyone else feel this way? Don’t get me wrong; I do love some of the rectangular watches that are out there — just not necessarily on me. But perhaps I never really tried one on long enough to give it a chance. Here are the five rectangular watches that I would consider buying if I could get used to wearing one.

1. Jaeger-LeCoultre Grande Reverso Ultra-Thin Tribute to 1931

This is actually a watch that I tried & tested for a week (you can read the full story here). I had been looking forward to “test-driving” Jaeger-LeCoultre‘s Grande Reverso Ultra-Thin since it was introduced during the 2011 SIHH in Geneva. The Reverso seems to have the perfect dimensions and comes with a proud heritage. In short, I loved this watch but I would need more time with it to find out if I could wear it long-term.

Jaeger-LeCoultre Grande Reverso Ultra-Thin Tribute to 1931

 

2. Cartier Tank Louis Cartier XL

Like the Reverso, the Cartier Tank LC XL has a very iconic design. Perhaps the most classical-looking watch of the bunch, it is only available in rose gold and white gold. To power this this very slim timepiece, Cartier used an ultra-thin Piaget movement, which is just 2.1 mm thick.

Cartier Tank Louis Cartier XL

3. Patek Philippe Gondolo 5200G-001

When it comes to Patek Philippe, I am usually more of a Nautilus guy but the brand’s Gondolo (Reference 5200G-001) makes my list of top rectangular watches.  This Gondolo’s dial is a bit on the crowded side, but that helps to make it less ‘retro’ and more modern-looking, in my opinion. The day-and-date indicator at 6 o’clock and the eight-day power-reserve indicator at 12 o’clock make this watch come alive.

Patek Philippe Gondolo 5200G-001

4. Richard Mille RM17 Extra Flat Tourbillon

Whereas most Richard Mille watches are quite “loud,” the RM 17 Extra Flat Tourbillon is one of the more “quiet” timepiece in that brand’s collection. (It may still be the loudest of the rectangular watches in this particular list.)  It’s available in white gold, rose gold and titanium, and I would settle for any of them. The tourbillon movement also features a function indicator, in order to show you whether the watch is in winding mode, neutral mode or setting mode.

Richard Mille RM17 Extra Flat Tourbillon

 

5. Oris Rectangular Complication

Another rectangular watch that might suit me is the Oris Rectangular Complication. Despite the alligator strap, silver dial and Roman numerals, this watch manages not to be overly “vintage”-looking thanks to the complications on the dial. Three subdials indicate the date (9 o’clock), second time zone (6 o’clock) and day (3 o’clock).

Oris Rectangular Complication

Are you a fan of rectangular watches? What are your favorites? Let us know. And visit my blog, fratellowatches.com, for more news, reviews, and opinions from the world of watches.

This article was originally published on January 11, 2015, and has been updated.

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  1. FKislik

    There are several rectangular watches that are both classy – Frédérique Constant full calendar, Bulgari Rettangolo, Schwartz Etienne GMT Chronograph and Hamilton Jazzmaster, just name the few, but I think the one that will suit you the best is the JLC Squadra Home Time.

    Reply
  2. Reg F

    I love my Reverso and my Oris, but you forgot the 70’s Icon, the TAG Monaco in Mr McQueens classic blue with white sub dials. Although technically it is square.

    I like all your other choices as well.

    I think if you oblongs a chance then you would grow to like them!

    Reply
  3. The ZennCoach

    I’m Surprised That One of
    Roland G. Murphy’s Rectangle Watches Didn’t Make Ur Cut..
    They Are Classic in Nature…
    & Certainly a Better Watch Than Oris
    in Any Category….
    Respectfully, E. Patrick

    Reply
  4. Philippos

    but your choices my friend about rectangular watches are fine with me…the oris might be my next purchase

    Reply
  5. Philippos

    I dont know about you guys but I love all styles of watches…and I always find ways to make them “fit” …

    Reply
  6. Hormazdiyaar

    My favourite from your list and the only one which I would wear is the new Patek Gondolo. I just love this one and reminds me of their ten day tourbillion which is my all time favourite. If you do not like a cluttered dial I don’t know how you missed this in your list.

    Reply
  7. Casey Herman

    I’ve been wearing a Patek 5135g for several years and have fallen in love with the look of that watch. Based on your comments probably too Retro for your taste, but l like the substantial size and classic style.

    Reply
  8. I don’t have any rectangular watches either. The new PP Gondolo with blue dial is beautiful and would top my list. One of the JLC Reverso models would also make my list.

    AP has a rectangular line of watches (the Edward Piguet collection), but I don’t think they are distributed in the US any more.

    Reply
  9. Neville Spicer

    I like the Patek Philippe. The case looks like those origonal square cases that had round movements in them. So the case was bigger than the face.its quite artistic. No doubt the movement in this watch is square. I love the idea of the technology becoming the very appeal or look that’s desired. It kind of makes it very classical.

    Reply
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