The Corum Sugar Cube watch was designed by Severin Wunderman in the early 2000’s.
In an era dominated by oversized wristwatches, the pendulum is now swinging back toward smaller timepieces. This emerging trend, fueled by a renewed appreciation for vintage aesthetics, has cast a spotlight on brands that embraced the elegance of diminutive designs long before it was fashionable again. Among these, Corum stands out as a brand that consistently pushed boundaries, blending artistry with innovation to create iconic watches that remain timeless. Among its tiny but mighty standouts: Sugar Cube (circa early 2000’s) and Sevigne (circa 2008)
I remember when the tiny Sugar Cube watch made its debut back in the very early 2000’s. It was the creative brainchild of Severin Wunderman – the same brilliant thinker who created the oversized, highly domed Bubble watch that is still in demand today. Wunderman purchased the Corum brand in 2000 and spearheaded its design and development direction until his death in 2008.
The Corum Sugar Cube watches measured 16mm in diameter and were shaped like their namesake and came in candy colors.
Under his leadership, Corum created a host of other watches, but the tiny feminine pieces struck a particular chord. The year the Sugar Cube watch was introduced, tiny blocks of sugar cubes were on display surrounding the watches in the windows at the Baselworld show.
The candy-colored stainless steel watches – about 16mm in diameter – were cushion cornered squares that recalled the sugar cube and made their debut in pastel pink, pale blue and yellow. With its diminutive case size and a unique square design reminiscent of its namesake, the Sugar Cube was a true statement of individuality.
Vintage poster of the Corum Sugar Cube watch. (photo: eBay)
The year before his death, Wunderman began work on another small women’s watch, the Sévigné, which made its debut in 2008. Measuring just 24mm in diameter, this square timepiece was a homage to the beauty of restraint. Its compact size was paired with refined craftsmanship, offering a timepiece that exuded understated luxury thanks to its shiny metal bracelet reminiscent of a strap.
The Sévigné underscored Corum’s ability to anticipate and interpret trends, appealing to collectors and connoisseurs who appreciated the harmony of form and fashion in a compact package. This was Wunderman’s great gift. He was always ahead of the times. He didn’t care if big watches or small watches were in style. He cared about the pop-cultural themes instead. He focused on color, style and concepts.
Corum Sevigne watch
The Sugar Cube and Sévigné watches, in particular, are another realm of watches that demonstrate Corum’s ability to create timeless icons that resonate even decades after their introduction. Today, as the watch world revisits smaller case sizes, Corum’s vintage creations with distinctive designs and compact proportions are enjoying a well-deserved renaissance. While difficult to find on the pre-owned market, an occasional one pops up — to the tune of about $3,000.
Even today, in an industry that often oscillates between extremes, Corum has remained steadfast in its dedication to creativity and individuality. As collectors and enthusiasts continue to embrace this trend, Corum’s archives serve as a rich source of inspiration. I am looking forward to what comes next from the company.
