Roman Numerals, as the name might suggest, were invented in ancient Rome, the first accounts of them being used dating back to 800-900B.C. I have always wanted to know why Roman Numerals were created because even now in modern Europe they are still being used. I did a little digging and found that the reason they were created in ancient Rome was so that their products could be priced accordingly as well as other uses around the city. It was essentially to make their life easier during trade.
For those that enjoy learning new things or are interested in how numerical systems began here is a short clip below:
Nowadays, roman numerals are used for films and tv programs and of course watches. When it comes to roman numeral watches however there can be some confusion. As you may know the first 5 roman numerals are ‘I’, “II’, ‘III’, ‘IV’ and ‘V’ which are 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5. However on some watches the number 4 (or ‘IV’) is replaced with ‘IIII’. Although we might never truly know why some watch makers have made this decision there are a few theories that might provide some explanation.
The first conclusion that has been drawn is that ‘IIII’ is easier to identify as the number 4 then ‘IV’. It then makes the time easier to read and less mathematical. The second theory supposedly stems from royalty. King Louis XIV of France was said to have preferred ‘IIII’ and has requested that all of the number 4’s on his sundial be changed accordingly. Since then it has been speculated that some watch makers followed the tradition however there are some that didn’t follow suit which is why we have the two different combinations today.
If you love the history and classic style of roman numerals and are looking to incorporate it into your modern day lifestyle then here are some of our recommendations of women’s roman numeral watches.
Women’s Roman Numeral Watches
Dreyfuss 1974 Stainless Steel Large Ladies Watch
Classic and elegant would be the top two words to aptly describe this timepiece. The model is classic in its smooth circular shape and shows off a modern combination of blue hands and a stainless steel case. The blue and silver combination has a royal feel to it which creates a sophisticated aura for this watch. One of the best features of this watch is that it is not only elite in its look but also function. The fact that this watch is water resistant up to 100 metres means that this watch can be easily adapted to your lifestyle whilst finishing off your sophisticated style.
Michel Herbelin Women’s Leather Strap Gold Tone Case
It’s not often that I would describe a ladies watch as handsome, but this watch by Michel Herbelin is an exception as it combined a rectangular face with a black leather strap. It is a watch well suited to ladies that mean business, as it is bold in design. The model is softened with the gold curves which make up the case of this rectangular watch, making it a handsome timepiece with a feminine edge.
Fossil Women’s Jacqueline Plated Stainless Steel
Perhaps you are looking for a watch which has roman numerals, however rather than a classic look, a watch with a modern twist? Fossil have combined the old and new concepts beautifully with their Jacqueline timepiece. It comes in a rich burgundy red with rose gold hands and roman numerals. If you are a professional fashionista and like the look of this model then it is my challenge to you to style this watch with your attire, it is not often that you can accessorise such a bold design so easily.
Rotary Women’s Canterbury Black Leather Strap Stainless Steel
When I am looking through the watches here at First Class Watches and deciding which model is appropriate for each blog post, I always turn to Rotary when I am searching for a timepiece which is completely classic. The round face of this watch, silver case and black leather strap combine to make not just a classic watch, but a timeless one. This watch is simple and not overstated which means that you can style it with a variety of different styles in your wardrobe.
Anne Klein Women’s Blue Leather Strap Blue Dial
Finally, the last watch on our list of recommendations is by Anne Klein. This brand is perfect if you are looking for a modern timepiece which stands out from most watches. The two colours of this watch are navy blue and rose gold which compliment an elegant and sophisticated style to the max. Navy blue is a great colour to wear during the autumn and winter months as it is one of the central colours for the fall of 2018.
Men’s Roman Numeral Watches
Raymond Weil Men’s Slim White Black Leather
As with the women’s roman numeral watches, it is important to show off the classic side to roman numerals, they are of course a symbol of history. Raymond Weil never disappoints with their handsome and classic style, combining a white dial with a silver stainless steel case and black leather strap. The design of this watch is not over complicated meaning it would compliment your style rather than being the main attraction.
Thomas Sabo Men’s Black Dial Stainless Steel Strap
Thomas Sabo are well known for their innovative style and intricate detail when it comes to design. This watch is no exception. It combines the use of bold black and silver colours with an eye catching dial, a watch which is ultimately modern in its design. This watch would look great for both formal and informal occasions, suit or jeans this watch is definitely a trend setter.
Maurice Lacroix Stainless Steel Sapphire Crystal Quartz
This is another one of our classic recommendations featuring a classic brown leather strap, grey dial, silver stainless steel case and gold roman numerals and hands. You might say that this watch has a lot going on, but surprisingly, Maurice Lacroix pulls it off with this model. It is a timepiece which is well suited to formal occasions and would be the perfect match with a grey suit.
Frederique Constant Classics Automatic Moonphase Navy Blue leather strap
There are so many good things to say about this Frederique Constant timepiece it is hard to know where to start. The first place is definitely convenience. This watch is automatic which means the battery of this watch charges itself, meaning you never have to change the battery which is an added bonus. Not only does this watch look stylish with the silver stainless steel case and navy blue strap, it also has multiple functions such as moonphase and water resistance up to 50 metres.
All of the roman numeral watches mentioned in this blog post are currently in stock. If you have any questions then you can find our contact details on our website. If you are local to the west midlands then you can also visit our watch shop which is based on the Kenilworth high street.
