Good evening everyone!
Today, we will introduce a new series , In this series, we will explain the basics of luxury watches in an easy-to-understand way, such as "You're too embarrassed to ask now!", for those who are not very familiar with luxury watches and those who want to learn more about them.
The glorious first
[ Introduction to Luxury Watches ]: 『 Bezel 』
Although the "dial" is what most influences the impression of a watch, the "bezel" also plays a very important role. There are many different types of "bezels," each with a significantly different function and design. In this article, we will explain the role, function, and types of "bezels," which are surprisingly unknown. This article will deepen your understanding and love of watches, so please enjoy until the end.
What is a "bezel"? Explaining its role
『 Bezel 』 = 「 frame 」 or 「 picture frame 」
As this meaning suggests, the original purpose of the bezel in a luxury wristwatch was to act as a frame or framing to support the crystal (glass) of the watch. However, due to innovation and technological advances from each brand, its current role, both in function and design, has changed significantly.
Not only the role but also the material itself has changed. Recently, ceramic materials have become more and more popular, and Rolex's famous sports models have switched from aluminum to ceramic. Ceramic materials are durable and corrosion-resistant, do not easily tarnish, and are lighter than metals, so more and more brands are adopting them. Nowadays, their presence greatly affects the impression of the model itself, from functionality to design.
List of Bezel Types (Functions)
First, let's start by explaining the "bezel," which is specialized for functionality.
" Tachymeter bezel "
A tachymeter bezel is a bezel found on watches with a chronograph function.
Most chronograph models, which are needed by people who mainly need to know their speed, such as racers and pilots, are equipped with a "tachymeter bezel" and you can measure your average speed by reading the numbers. This is a groundbreaking function that stops the chronograph hand after traveling 1 km , and the number the hand points to is the average speed for that distance. Although it is rarely used in daily life, the attractive design combined with the chronograph boasts immense popularity among many watch fans.
[ Representative model ]
[ Rolex ] " Daytona "
[ Omega ] " Speedmaster "
" GMT bezel "
The "GMT bezel" is a multi-function bezel that is mainly found on pilot watches.
The entire bezel is engraved with a 24 -hour display, and by aligning it with the 24-hour hand, you can know the time in a second or third time zone. It can be rotated in both directions, and due to its convenience and high design, it is so popular that each brand has a representative model. By the way, GMT stands for "Greenwich Mean Time" and refers to "World Standard Time."
[ Representative model ]
[ Rolex ] " GMT Master "
[ Grand Seiko ] " GMT "
" Anti-reverse bezel "
A "reverse-rotating bezel" is a type of bezel found on diver's watches.
By aligning the numbers engraved on the bezel with the hour and minute hands, you can keep track of the elapsed time. Because diving requires accurate tracking of the dive time due to factors such as the remaining amount of oxygen in the tank and water pressure, the bezel can only be rotated in one direction to prevent it from being accidentally rotated in the opposite direction.
[ Representative model ]
[ Rolex ] " Submariner "
[ Omega ] " Seamaster "
List of "Bezel" Types <Design>
Next, we will explain the "bezel", which is specialized for design.
" Smooth bezel "
The "smooth bezel" is a simple and versatile bezel that is not decorated in any way.
The entire bezel is polished (mirror) or satin (matte) finished , and is a standard design used by many brands. There are no accent decorations, which gives it a stylish image and ensures the visibility of the dial.
[ Representative model ]
[ Rolex ] Explorer I
[ IWC ] Portuguese
" Flute bezel "
The "fluted bezel" is a Rolex-exclusive bezel that features a mountain-like shape and jagged edges.
"Flute" means "vertical stripes" and is a high-end specification seen in gold models. This finish, which exudes subtle elegance, gives a luxurious and dressy impression.
[ Representative model ]
[ Rolex ] " Datejust "
[ Rolex ] " Day Date "
" Jewelry bezel "
A "jeweled bezel" is a gorgeous bezel adorned with precious stones such as diamonds, rubies, and sapphires.
The design (= impression) changes greatly depending on the material and color, and you're sure to be captivated by its beauty. Basically, models with this "bezel" are sold as high-end models by each brand.
[ Representative model ]
[ Patek Philippe ] " Nautilus "
[ Audemars Piguet ] " Royal Oak "
" Clou de Paris Bezel "
The "Clou de Paris bezel" literally means "the claws of Paris" and is a bezel with carved patterns resembling rivets, which is said to be a decoration inspired by cobblestones.
This highly sophisticated decoration, which gives the watch a strong presence, is sometimes used on the dial as well, and its delicate technique is so fine that it can be called art. It is a noble bezel that is used on traditional models such as [Patek Philippe] "Calatrava" and [Breguet] "Classic".
[ Representative model ]
[ Patek Philippe ] " Calatrava "
summary
I have explained the role and types of bezels. What do you think?
There are actually many types of bezels on the watches we use every day. What kind of bezel is used on the watch you like or want? Find out and you'll grow to love that watch even more.
I hope that after reading this article, you will become interested in luxury watches!
see you!