Introducing luxury watch parts: "index"

Today we will be introducing luxury watch parts: the index .

"Indexes" play an important role in reading the time . There are a wide variety of types , from simple ones to those decorated with jewels . Such "indexes" affect not only the impression of the watch itself but also its visibility, so they are one of the important points to consider when choosing a watch.

So this time, we will be introducing 11 types of indexes along with their representative models, so please enjoy until the end.

① Bar index

*Source: https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/rolex/oyster-perpetual/oysterperpetual-325931/

Bar indexes are the most conventional rod-shaped indexes, and their simple appearance has led to them being used in many sports and dress models alike. Sports models tend to have indexes coated with luminous paint, while dress models tend to use solid materials without luminous paint. Perhaps due to their square shape, they are typically used in conjunction with bar-type hour and minute hands, and their greatest appeal is their excellent visibility .

*Source: https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/patek_philippe/nautilus/nautilus-329383/

②Arabic numeral index

*Source: https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/a-lange_and_sohne/1815-315016/

Using Arabic numerals from 1 to 12, this index has excellent visibility because the time is easy to read, just like bar indexes. In addition to the type that is printed on the dial, there is also a type that is applied (applied) with solid material to give the index thickness and emphasize the outline. Since it gives a slightly casual impression, it is often used in sports models or when you want to create a soft atmosphere.

*Source: https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/patek_philippe/aquanaut/aquanaut-281713/

3. Breguet numeral index

*Source: https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/breguet/classic-311941/

Like the Arabic numeral indexes, this index uses Arabic numerals from 1 to 12 on the dial, and uses a distinctive font devised by Abraham-Louis Breguet. Because of its classical impression, it is often used on dress models, and in the case of Patek Philippe, it tends to be used on special models, so it can be said that it is an indispensable index for luxury watches.

*Source: https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/patek_philippe/patek-philippe-other/grand-complication-321459/

④Arabic index

*Source: https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/rolex/daytona/daytona-174284/

Like the Arabic numeral indexes, this index uses Arabic characters from 1 to 12 on the dial and is made for people in the Middle East. Due to its exclusivity, it is also popular outside the Middle East, and many brands incorporate it into their gem-set and flagship models, making it a distinctive index that is indispensable to luxury watches.

*Source: https://www.audemarspiguet.com/com/ja/watch-collection/royal-oak/67656BC.GR.1261BC.01.html

⑤ Roman index

*Source: https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/cartier/tank-272166/

This watch uses Roman numerals on the dial, giving it a classical look. The numeral notation used in ancient Rome gives off a noble impression, and is often used in dress watches because of its appearance. Since different expressions can be created depending on the shape, placement, and size of the letters, it can be said that this is an index that can easily bring out the unique characteristics of each brand.

*Source: https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/patek_philippe/patek-philippe-other/annual-calendar-150504/

⑥Dot index

*Source: https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/vintage_rolex/submariner-301640/

As the name suggests, this simple circular design gives the dial a clean impression. There are various types, such as circular solid material designs and large dots with luminous coating. Because of their excellent visibility, they are used especially in diver's watches, sports watches, and pilot watches.

*Source: https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/patek_philippe/calatrava/calatrava-323348/

⑧ Bullet-shaped index

*Source: https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/rolex/day-date/day-date-36-299611/

Bullet-shaped indexes are very similar to bar indexes and are sometimes classified in the same category. They are named after the square shape with a pointed tip that looks like a bullet. They are used in many models, from vintage to current models, so they can be said to be one of the standard indexes.

*Source: https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/jaeger_lecoultre/reverso-tribute-duoface-325933/

⑨Square index

*Source: https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/rolex/yacht-master/yacht-master-334762/

As the name suggests, square indexes are characterized by a modern and casual design. They come in a variety of designs, including those made of solid material and those with large squares coated with luminous paint. They are primarily used in diver's watches and sports watches.

*Source: https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/tudor/pelagos-238980/

10. Jewelry index

*Source: https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/rolex/daytona/daytona-330578/

These indexes, which are often found in expensive models, are made with a wide variety of gemstones, such as diamonds, rubies, and sapphires, and their beauty and dazzling design have captivated many people. Just having a gemstone on the watch can completely change the overall impression, so these indexes are especially recommended for those who want to give a noble or unique impression.

*Source: https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/rolex/daytona/daytona-323349/

⑪ Star Index

*Source: https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/a-lange_and_sohne/little-lange-1-moon-phase-315439/

As the name suggests, star indexes are often used in models created with the concept of the night sky or starry sky, or models that want to express femininity. They come in star shapes carved out of solid material, or star-cut diamonds (shaped like a hexagram). Although they are not a common design, they are an index with great individuality.

*Source: https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/others/endeavour-305643/

summary

I think you can see that there are various types of "indexes", including unique shapes derived from orthodox designs. It is also interesting that each brand adds its own essence to the design and creates its own font. Even if you haven't paid much attention to indexes until now, why not take this opportunity to pay attention to "indexes" when choosing a watch?

If you're unsure of which model to choose, or are having trouble deciding, please feel free to contact us at our store, where we have knowledgeable staff on-site who will give you accurate advice based on design, functionality, budget, etc.

Once again, we hope this article helps you find your favorite luxury watch.

see you!