He may be known for his scene-stealing roles, but Jonathan Bailey’s newest influence comes in miniature — the tiny wristwatches redefining men’s style.
Having carved out a reputation for cinematic gravitas and red-carpet presence, Bailey’s choice in wristwear signals something more: a shift away from bulky, oversized timepieces and towards elegance, understatement and a refreshing sense of nonchalance. And in a world where “bigger is better” often dominates, his decision feels quietly subversive, which is precisely the kind of style statement that puts you ahead of the curve.
The Watch World Is Shrinking
Traditionally, men’s wristwatches have hovered around case diameters of 38–42 mm. But increasingly, we’re seeing a swing toward compactness, with mini or “women’s” watches reimagined for men. By doing exactly that, wearing a timepiece originally marketed to women, Bailey is not just bending rules; he is redefining expectations.
It’s a move that resonates widely. Smaller watches are often more comfortable, versatile and subtle, which are ideal for effortless style. When a man of Bailey’s stature wears one publicly, it gives permission to others to follow and challenges the stereotypical notion that a “serious” man’s watch must be oversized or showy.
The Star Everyone’s Watching
There is a reason the elite of Hollywood gravitate toward Bailey. Whether it’s his performance in Shakespeare’s Richard II, his breakout success with Bridgerton, or his Hollywood forays with Wicked and Jurassic World, he has earned a reputation for reliability and charisma.
Swiss luxury brand Omega reportedly snapped him up in early 2023 to join its exclusive ambassador roster, a list that already features acting luminaries such as George Clooney, Eddie Redmayne and Daniel Craig. That backing carries weight. The Mini Trésor wasn’t a safe, expected choice in that context; it was a deliberate statement. And it worked.
When Bailey attended the premiere of Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York) on Broadway wearing the De Ville Mini Trésor—diamond-laced case, moonshine gold, dial adorned with Roman numerals—he made the timepiece the centrepiece. Paired with a relaxed, cosy knit sweater (a “Burberry atom-blue” according to GQ) and sleeves rolled just enough to show off the watch, he achieved what few men’s style icons manage: an elevated casual look that’s elegant without trying too hard.
The New Menswear Mood
Bailey’s adoption of a “tiny” watch is more than a red-carpet stunt. It speaks to a broader shift in menswear aesthetics. The resurgence of neat tailoring, well-fitted knitwear and subtle accessories, all coordinated in harmony, is gaining momentum. In this context, a small watch feels more natural, refined, and ultimately more masculine than the ticking clocks many men once carried proudly on their wrists.
This move towards minimalism also reflects a growing appetite for authenticity in men’s style. As trends move away from over-branded, hyper-masculine accessories, the appeal of a compact, beautifully crafted watch feels refreshingly understated. Bailey’s choice taps into that desire for elegance with purpose, where every detail is intentional rather than loud.
At the same time, the tiny-watch revival mirrors a cultural shift towards personal expression over conformity. Men are increasingly choosing pieces that feel right for them, regardless of old-fashioned marketing or gendered expectations. A 26mm timepiece might once have been dismissed as “too delicate,” yet on Bailey’s wrist it becomes a symbol of freedom: the freedom to wear what and how you like.
In 2025, Jonathan Bailey’s wristwear doubles as a declaration: elegance is measured in millimetres, and confidence isn’t loud. The modest 26 mm Omega De Ville Mini Trésor may be tiny, but its impact is anything but. For anyone looking to balance substance with style, it’s a masterclass in refined minimalism.
