Why is it always 10:10 on a presentation watch?

If you've ever looked at a watch window or a watch advertisement, you've probably noticed an intriguing detail: the hands almost always show 10:10 .

This choice is not insignificant, it is above all an aesthetic and marketing decision, allowing to attract the eye and to transmit a positive impression. If some historical explanations exist, they remain anecdotal compared to the importance of visual harmony and the placement of the logo.

A historical explanation: myth or reality?

The role of the Greenwich meridian

Some claim that 10:10 is the exact time when universal time was adopted at the International Meridian Conference in 1884. This conference, which brought together 24 countries, effectively established Greenwich, United Kingdom, as the global reference for time zones.

• Truth: The Greenwich Meridian Agreement was indeed signed in October 1884.
• False: No official source confirms that this happened precisely at 10:10 .

The execution of Louis XVI at 10:10 a.m.

Another explanation suggests that Louis XVI was guillotined at 10:10, and that the clockmakers kept this time in homage to the monarch who was passionate about watchmaking.

• Truth: Louis XVI was a great lover of watches and had an impressive collection.
• False: Historical records indicate that his execution took place around 10:22 a.m. , not 10:10 a.m.

A powerful marketing and psychological choice

The “V” for victory: a harmonious arrangement

The hands positioned at 10:10 form a V , a symbol of victory, success and dynamism .

• A positive perception: Consumers unconsciously associate this position with a feeling of success.
• A visual balance: The hands are perfectly symmetrical, offering a composition that is pleasing to the eye.

A highlighting of the logo and counters

In most watches, the brand logo is positioned below the 12-hour index. By placing the hands at 10:10 , they naturally frame the manufacturer's name, thus attracting attention.

Furthermore, on chronograph models, this arrangement avoids hiding the secondary counters , ensuring better visibility.

Alternative and fascinating theories

A reference to great historical figures?

Some claim that the 10:10 hour is a tribute to Abraham Lincoln and John F. Kennedy , both of whom were assassinated that morning.

False: Historical records show that these events took place at different times.

A choice linked to the first watch advertisements?

The first watch advertisements already used 10:10 to display watches. This tradition has continued in the watch industry.

• A standard adopted by all major watchmaking houses.
• A universal standard that creates visual consistency across the industry.

The display of 10:10 on presentation watches is above all an aesthetic and marketing decision, allowing to attract the eye and convey a positive impression. While some historical explanations exist, they remain anecdotal compared to the importance of visual harmony and logo placement.

Major watch brands, such as Arlyos , perpetuate this tradition to reinforce the elegance and enhancement of their creations.

The next time you see a watch displaying 10:10 , you will know that it is not a mere coincidence, but rather a carefully thought-out detail to seduce the eye of the beholder.