Today we will be sending you Part 1 of an introduction to luxury watch parts: the bezel .
The bezel not only holds the crystal in place, but also has a scale for measuring and plays an important role in adding an accent to the design of the watch. There are many different types of bezels , from simple ones to those decorated with jewels , and the design of the bezel varies depending on the purpose of use as well as the impression of the watch itself, making it an important point to consider when choosing a watch.
So this time, we will introduce the 20 types of bezels in two parts, along with some representative models. Please enjoy until the end.
① Smooth bezel
*Source: https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/vintage_rolex/explorer1-331934/
This is one of the most orthodox bezels, and is used on many models, both sports and dress models, due to its simple appearance without any decoration. Many of them have a mirror finish (polished finish), and their simplicity makes the dial, hands, and other parts, as well as the watch itself, stand out, making them an attractive bezel that gives off an elegant and mature impression.
*Source: https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/patek_philippe/calatrava/calatrava-315950/
②Flute bezel
*Source: https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/rolex/datejust/datejust41-332301/
This bezel, which means "fluted", is unique to Rolex and features mountain-like jagged edges arranged in a regular pattern. It is made of gold and has a dazzling appearance depending on how the light hits it, giving it a dressy impression, so it is used on dress models such as the Datejust and Day-Date.
*Source: https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/rolex/yacht-master/yacht-master-328389/
8. Countdown bezel
*Source: https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/blancpain/air-command-250399/
This bezel, with numbers from 0 to 55 and bar-type graduations arranged counterclockwise, was created as a bezel to make it easier to count down military attacks and measure the elapsed time after they have begun. It can also be rotated in the opposite direction, and is often seen on pilot watches and military watches.
*Source: https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/tudor/pelagos-210275/
⑨Tachymeter bezel
*Source: https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/rolex/daytona/daytona-331197/
This bezel is mainly used in models with chronographs, and has a scale to calculate speed per hour. The chronograph hand is stopped when the watch has traveled 1km, and the number on the scale where the hand is pointing is the average speed per hour = distance traveled per hour. This is one of the standard bezels used in many racing models, including the Daytona.
*Source: https://catalog.antiquorum.swiss/en/lots/omega-lot-158-207
summary
What did you think.
I think you can see that there are various types of bezels, from orthodox ones to special ones that have functional meaning. It is interesting that each brand adds its own essence to the design to create a bezel with a unique atmosphere, so even if you haven't paid much attention to it until now, why not take this opportunity to pay attention to the bezel 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!