First watch

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wantabalenciaga

wantabalenciaga

O.G.
Sep 12, 2009
1,076
241
#1
I have never been into jewelry, but I am looking into buying my first watch.

Two main questions. What are good used sites? What size??

I have very small wrists. My limbs are skinny as well, but I have straight very broad shoulders so it's not like I totally come across as a tiny person. I want a watch that is noticeable without looking comically big. I am 5'3, 100 lbs if that helps. What would be recommend as a good statement but not garish size? Thank you! Completely clueless.
 
#5
For small wrists, I think 31 mm watch is classic size.
As for which watch, I think you should mention price range that you want to spend. Then it easier for us to give you some suggestions
 
#6
So I don't know anything about watches! I googled the ones Orchardlady gave me and really like the Chanel J12 in the white color....although I can't quite tell if the actual links white or are they silver and just the face is white? I am sure that is a silly question. I literally know nothing about watches!!

I don't know the circumference of my wrist, but very small. However I am not "dainty" because of my shoulders so don't want to go too small. 31-33 seems perfect - is there a chance the face could be bigger than my wrist at that size? The top part of my wrist is about 1 1/2 or a touch under.
 
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#8
That watch is gorgeous! Is the white easy to match with most outfits? Do you wear it daily even with casual clothes? I don't have a huge budget and am looking at used 4k and under. I seem to be able to find some J12 for that, but I am not sure all the differences between them. Is the site RealReal legitimate?
 
#9
815B7E9B-2585-42B3-B8E1-2CB77489459C.jpeg

Chanel J12 (33 mm)


AA3B6BAB-2ACD-43A1-B6BE-9D222AAD9DB9.jpeg

Rolex (31 mm)

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Cartier Ballon (33 mm)


wantabalenciaga said:
That watch is gorgeous! Is the white easy to match with most outfits? Do you wear it daily even with casual clothes? I don't have a huge budget and am looking at used 4k and under. I seem to be able to find some J12 for that, but I am not sure all the differences between them. Is the site RealReal legitimate?
Click to expand...
 
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#10
wantabalenciaga said:
That watch is gorgeous! Is the white easy to match with most outfits? Do you wear it daily even with casual clothes? I don't have a huge budget and am looking at used 4k and under. I seem to be able to find some J12 for that, but I am not sure all the differences between them. Is the site RealReal legitimate?
Click to expand...
I haven't worn it in a while...it's my summer watch. LOL! I bought a Cartier Roadster which I'm currently wearing. I wear my J12 dressy or casual. This watch is really indestructible...no worries about scratching. I think The RealReal is legitimate but make sure you get some kind of warranty.
@Mai1981 has given you some good choices! Keep us posted......................
 
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#11
I am thinking maybe a silver would be better as my only watch as maybe goes with more? Is white ok for formal events?

This is my short list:
Chanel J12/Dior VII (white)
Breitlind Starliner/Oceane
Cartier Tank Francais
Rolex Date
Christian Dior Christal
I will have go over condition and sizes, but those are available and I like them all. Confused! Is there anything I should know that will help with a decision?

Is 38 mm out of the question? Does anyone with very small wrists wear that size? Would it be "too much" for formal occasions? Not super formal, but like a wedding or cocktail party.

Husband favorite is the 30mm Breitling Starliner Any pros or cons to that one? I have never heard of brand, although after researching here I gather it's a quality one.
 
Last edited:
#12
White is limiting and you may not enjoy wearing it in the winter. Chanel,is a fashion watch and should be reserved as an alternate or extra watch...not everyday. Also, for formal events don’t even wear a watch unless you have an “evening” style watch that is petite and with diamonds. You rarely see women at the opera, symphony, galas or red carpets wearing watches. Breitling is an excellent technical watch but not as collectible as Rolex. Dior is also a fashion watch - not serious. Rolex is the best on your list - not quartz, great for everyday, very good quality and lots of options.

38 mm would look too large on small wrists. 31-33 max would probably work well for you. I also have small wrists yet big hands and tall with broad shoulders...I’m very slim and athletic and 33 even looks too large on me.
 
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#13
wantabalenciaga said:
I am thinking maybe a silver would be better as my only watch as maybe goes with more? Is white ok for formal events?

This is my short list:
Chanel J12/Dior VII (white)
Breitlind Starliner/Oceane
Cartier Tank Francais
Rolex Date
Christian Dior Christal
I will have go over condition and sizes, but those are available and I like them all. Confused! Is there anything I should know that will help with a decision?

Is 38 mm out of the question? Does anyone with very small wrists wear that size? Would it be "too much" for formal occasions? Not super formal, but like a wedding or cocktail party.

Husband favorite is the 30mm Breitling Starliner Any pros or cons to that one? I have never heard of brand, although after researching here I gather it's a quality one.
Click to expand...
I have very small wrists and just went through a similar debate. I ended up with the 31 Rolex Datejust and it fits perfectly. In very close second was the small Cartier Tank Francaise which I am still thinking about so will hopefully get later this year.
 
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