Commit TV Yagi Column ~《Series of Questions You Are Too Afraid to Ask Now Vol.5》【Introduction to Luxury Watches】What is an “Index”? ~

Good evening everyone!

This week, we have 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.

This is the fifth time

[ Introduction to Luxury Watches ]: 『 Index 』

An "index" on a watch refers to the "numbers" or "scales" on the face that indicate the time, and is also called an hour marker. There are many different types, and together with the face and hands, it is one of the important parts that greatly influences the design and impression of a watch. In this article, we will take a deeper look at the different types of "indexes." Please use this as a reference when choosing a watch!

What is an "Index"? Explaining its role

『 Index 』 = 「 A mark indicating the time 」

An "index" is a mark placed on the dial that indicates the time, and it comes in a variety of shapes, including Roman numerals, Arabic numerals, bar types, dot types, etc. There are also brand-specific "indexes" and designs that symbolize the brand.

List of "Index" types

From here, we will introduce the types of Index and their representative models.

" Bar index "

"Bar indexes" are a standard type of index used on many watches. They are characterized by a rod-shaped design, and their length and thickness vary depending on the brand and model. They give a simple and sharp impression, and are considered a highly versatile "index."

[ Representative model ]

[ Patek Philippe ] " Nautilus "

" Arabic index "

Along with bar indexes, Arabic indexes are also commonly seen. They make it easy to check the time, and are often used in pilot watches and sports watches. There are various font styles depending on the brand, and the same Arabic numerals can have a very different impression, but compared to other "indexes," they have a more casual impression.

[ Representative model ]

[ Patek Philippe ] " Calatrava Pilot Travel Time "

" Roman Index "

"Roman index" is a design that uses Roman numerals for the index. Taking advantage of the elegant impression of Roman numerals, this design is often used for dress watches. Normally, the Roman numeral 4 is written as "IV", but on the index it is written as "IIII". There are various theories about this, including "for ease of viewing" and "due to an anecdote about a certain king."

[ Representative model ]

[ A. Lange & Söhne ] " Richard Lange "

" Diamond and Jewelry Index "

Diamond and jewel indexes are luxurious indexes set with diamonds and jewels. They have a luxurious and gorgeous impression and are often used in dress watches. They are often used not only on the indexes but also on the dial, bezel, lugs, etc., and the impression and price of the watch can change greatly depending on the type and amount of jewels used.

[ Representative model ]

[ Rolex ] " Datejust "

" Point/Dot Index "

"Point/dot index" refers to round "indexes", with larger ones called "point indexes" and smaller ones called "dot indexes". They are often used in diver's watches because they can be made more visible by using luminous paint. They can also be used in combination with other types of "indexes", and there are many combinations, such as "bar indexes" and "Arabic indexes".

[ Representative model ]

[ Rolex ] " Submariner "

" Triangle wedge index "

"Triangle/wedge index" refers to triangular "indexes", and there are various shapes of the same triangle, from thin types like "bar indexes" to ones that are close to equilateral triangles. Depending on the size and shape, they can be finished with elegance or casualness, so they are used in a wide range of watches.

[ Representative model ]

[ Omega ] " Seamaster 300 "

" Applied Index "

"Applied index" refers to an "index" made up of separate parts. There are inexpensive ones that are attached with a sticker, but for luxury watches, it is common to attach a leg and fix it to the dial. It is three-dimensional and highly visible, but the cost is also higher.

[ Representative model ]

[ Vacheron Constantin ] " Overseas "

summary

I have explained the role and types of indexes. What do you think?

The "index" plays an important role in telling the time. I hope you now understand that it is an important part that can greatly change the design of a watch, not only depending on the material and shape used, but also on how it is combined with the dial and hands.

I hope that after reading this article, you will become interested in luxury watches!

see you!