Everything you need to know about a watch face

A watch dial is the visual soul of the watch, its “face”, and reflects the watchmaking expertise behind each model. Its design, materials and finishes are key elements that influence both the aesthetics and readability of a watch. In this article, we will explore in depth the role of the dial, its different characteristics and how to choose the one that best suits your style and wrist.

1. What is a watch face?

The dial is the part located under the watch glass, on which the indexes, numbers and hands are arranged. It is designed to offer a clear and intuitive reading of the time, while giving a distinctive visual signature to each model.

At Arlyos, we have chosen to highlight timeless elegance with dials crafted from noble materials and meticulous finishes, particularly on our skeleton watch collection, which reveals the watch movement in all its splendor.

2. The essential elements of a watch dial

a) Indexes and markings

Indexes are the markers that allow you to read the time on a watch. They can take several forms:

• Arabic numerals : Modern and legible, often used on sports watches.

• Roman Numerals : Classic elegance, commonly found on dress watches.

• Stick indexes : Minimalism and refinement, perfect for a contemporary look.

• Luminescent dots : Increased practicality for night-time readability.

b) The needles: A strong visual signature

The hands also contribute to the style of a watch. There are several iconic shapes:

• Dauphine : Tapered and elegant needles.

• Leaf : Soft, classic curves.

• Alpha : Tapered hands, often found on luxury watches.

• Baton : Simple and modern, ideal for a contemporary watch.

• Lollipop : Featuring a light circle for better nighttime visibility.

c) The date window and other complications

Some watches incorporate a window on the dial to display additional information:

• Date : A discreet aperture displaying the day of the month.

• Day of the week : Very useful for daily use.

• Moon phase : An aesthetic and functional refinement.

• Chronograph counter : Essential for sports watches.

3. Dial materials: Between tradition and modernity

The choice of materials directly influences the aesthetics and durability of the dial. Among the most common, we find:

• Metal (brass, aluminum, stainless steel) : Strong and easy to work with.

• Enamel : Artisanal technique offering a deep and shiny finish.

• Mother of pearl : A unique and natural shine, often used on women's watches.

• Ceramic : Scratch and shock resistant.

• Wood or stone : Rarer choices, for a truly unique watch.

4. Dial finishes: A subtle art

Each finish brings a special touch to the dial:

• Sunny : Luminous effect with changing reflections.

• Sandblasted and brushed : Matte and sober texture.

• Guilloché : Meticulous work of the lines engraved on the dial.

• Opaline : Elegant matte white, synonymous with purity.

• Skeletonized : For total immersion in the watch mechanism.

5. How to choose the right dial size?

Case diameter plays a crucial role in how a watch looks on the wrist. Here are some recommendations:

• Wrist less than 15 cm : Choose a dial from 28 to 32 mm .

• Wrist between 15 and 17 cm : A dial of 36 to 40 mm fits perfectly.

• Wrist between 17 and 19 cm : A diameter of 40 to 44 mm is ideal.

• Wrist larger than 19 cm : A dial of 42 to 50 mm will highlight your watch.

The thickness of the case and the "lug to lug" length are also criteria that should not be overlooked to ensure good visual balance and optimal comfort.

6. Which dial should you choose according to your style?

a) Dress watch vs. sports watch

• Dress watch : Sleek dial, fine indexes, sober colors (black, white, silver).

• Sports watch : Dial with counters, visible numbers, luminescent indexes.

b) Dial color and elegance

• Black or white : Classic and timeless.

• Blue or green : Refined and trendy.

• Gold or champagne : Luxury and distinction.

c) Why choose a skeleton dial?

The skeleton dial is a bold and fascinating choice, highlighting the mechanical movement of the watch. It is ideal for those who appreciate watchmaking precision and want to wear a model with a strong personality. Discover our exclusive collection of skeleton watches to combine performance and aesthetics.

At Arlyos, we make it a point of honor to design sophisticated and refined dials, in order to offer watches that stand the test of time with elegance.

Explore our timepieces and find the watch that matches your style!