A few years ago, everyone was wearing oversized timepieces. We wrote a whole story on women sporting men’s watches, and we were big fans of the movement. A season of loud, logo-driven runways, and a wave of more subtle, quiet luxury later, however, mini watches are inching back onto the scene. Here are our favourite pieces right now.
Mini watches — or “tiny watches” by some accounts — were among the biggest trends at Watches and Wonders 2026. While 38mm and above was the norm for a long time, watch lovers have turned to pieces that boast a case size of 30mm or smaller for a number of reasons.
Quick, what time is it right now? The first perpetrator to the mini watch trend is a change in timekeeping habits. Many of us turn to digital means to tell time, whether it is the laptop or tablet on which we’re reading this story, or the smartphone that rests next to it. This has turned the watch into more of a fashion statement than a functional item.
As a luxury accessory, then, the mini watch sits comfortably in the category that blurs the lines between watch and jewellery. It can be worn like a bracelet, and even be stacked with other bracelets. It is versatile, and easy to wear. The mini watch has even been spotted on the red carpet, on the likes of Hailey Bieber or Timothee Chalamet.
This younger, millennial crowd is an important part of the trend, too. Forbes explains that “the mini watch-as-jewellery category opens up additional revenue streams from people who are not necessarily horological aficionados.” As opposed to the more overwhelming 44mm timepiece, these smaller watches not only appear a lot more approachable, but they are more accessible to the first-time, or aspirational buyer, too.
Renowned Maisons are launching mini versions of their most iconic timepieces, from Cartier to Audemars Piguet. Below, we’ve listed a few of our favourites right now. All timepieces have case diameter of 25mm or below.
All under 30mm: Mini watches are having a major moment right now
Cartier Baignoire Watch, 24.6×18.7 mm
Cartier’s new mini models captured hearts from the moment they arrived. The Baignoire dates back to a 1912 design, and features an elegant ellipse that is forged into a single line. Timeless, and incredibly chic, this 18k gold model measures 24.6mm by 18.7mm.
Price: Starts from RM36,400
More info: Cartier
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Mini, 23mm
Audemars Piguet released three 23mm Mini Royal Oak models, available in 18-carat yellow, white, or pink gold. Inspired by the Mini Oak of 1997, it features frosted gold and a tone-on-tone Petite Tapisserie dial. Audemars Piguet has a long history of both miniature and jewellery watches, and this mini watch offers a beautiful contemporary interpretation.
Price: Upon request
More info: Audemars Piguet
Chanel Première Ribbon Red Watch, 19.7×15.2×7.5mm
Chanel created its first watch for women in 1987. Inspired by the codes of the fashion house, the Première is designed to evoke the stopper of the world-famous Chanel No. 5 perfume. In this version, the mini watch sees yellow gold and titanium, a red rubber strap with a velvet touch, and a red-lacquered sunray dial.
Price: Approx. RM26,050
More info: Chanel
Longines Mini DolceVita, 21.5x29mm
One of Longines’ most beloved timepieces, the Mini Dolce Vita has a discreet profile, and is extremely versatile, given its classic styling. An extension of Longines’ original DolceVita line, the mini watch comes with a silver ‘flinqué’ dial and a stainless steel bracelet.
Price: Starts from RM7,930.00
More info: Longines
Piaget Altiplano Origin Watch, 24mm
Piaget’s Altiplano collection is synonymous with ultra-thin timepieces. This 24mm model boasts a sleek iridescent white dial, and soft hour markers. Featuring a ring of diamonds in the white gold case, and a sleek white satin strap, it is both a contemporary and feminine mini watch.
Price: On request
More info: Piaget
Chopard Happy Sport, 25mm
The Happy Sport model was first launched in 1993, and remains one of the most charming and iconic watches by Chopard. “Dancing” between two sapphire crystals, the watch features free-spinning gems and an elegant playfulness. This new, smaller model measures 25mm, and stands out with its green dial and satin-brushed sunburst finish.
Price: On request
More info: Chopard
Hermès Heure H Mini Model, 21mm
The Hermès Heure H watch is one of the most instantly recognisable. It is available in a mini, small, or medium size, and the mini is really true to its name. At just 21mm diameter, there is still plenty to admire: yellow gold-plated steel, an opaline silvered dial, and that signature strap in gold chestnut Epsom calfskin.
Price: Approx. RM22,900
More info: Hermès
Note : The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.