There’s lots of lingo that flies around the horological industry, which can be confusing for any watch newbie. From Pepsi bezels to panda dials, there are lots of affectionate names that have been attributed to different features by watch aficionados. One that may have caught your eye is the cutely-named ‘panda dial’. But what is it? And why is it called that? Today, we will be discussing the panda dial’s origins and offering our top 5 panda dial watches, so that you can have one of your own.
What is a panda dial?
This has surprisingly been a topic of debate, and Google may give you some conflicting answers. A panda dial is distinct for its black-on-white dial appearance, which often features a white or silver dial accessorised with two or three black subdials. The idea is that it resembles a panda’s face.
The 1957 Breitling Superocean Chronograph is often regarded as the ‘earliest panda dial’. However, this watch actually has a black dial with white subdials, making it a ‘reverse panda dial’. Consequently, this has led to some confusing a reverse panda dial for a standard panda dial. In reality, the first ‘true’ panda dial was the Rolex Daytona 6239. Since Rolex is a brand many others look towards, the Daytona inspired a wave of panda dials following its release. But, as the reverse panda Supercoean predates this first ‘true’ panda dial, its potential influence cannot be ignored.
As to who nicknamed this dial design the ‘panda dial’, no one is really sure. Nonetheless, it is a very apt name that injects some affection into the style.
Top 5 Panda Dial Watches
Without further ado, let’s get stuck into some of our favourite panda dials with our Top 5 Panda Dial Watches list.
Seiko Prospex ‘Panda’ One Hundredth Of A Second Speedtimer Solar Chronograph SFJ001P1
Although this Speedtimer Prospex has one more subdial than typical of the ‘panda dial’, we could not open this list without it. Its quirky dial design is one of the central appeals of this watch. Eliminating the idea of a ‘main dial’, the Speedtimer Prospex instead breaks the watch’s functions down into four subdials. Reinforcing its panda dial design, the configuration of the subdials resemble a panda’s paw print. As an added functional touch, the indices and hands on each subdial are luminescent to ensure they are legible even in limited lighting.
It’s not just the aesthetics of the watch that make it a worthwhile investment. Its chronograph can measure time to one-hundredth of a second, making it incredibly precise. Moreover, beneath the dial a solar-powered quartz 8A50 movement powers the watch, meaning the watch is also incredibly sustainable. Housing this movement is a 42mm stainless steel case, which blends seamlessly into the watch’s stainless steel bracelet. The case also has a depth of 12.9mm, meaning it’s unmissable on the wrist. Additionally, its robust nature seals in an impressive 100 metres of water resistance. For a precise, sustainable, and slightly off-beat panda dial watch, we highly recommend this Seiko.
Hamilton American Classic Intra-Matic Auto Chrono Auto Chrono H38416711
This Hamilton American Classic puts a vintage twist on the panda dial design. It reworks one of the brand’s signature pieces from 1968, and expertly so. The black-on-white dial is beautifully framed by a tachymeter ring and features silver baton indices and three black hands. Moreover, at the 6 o’clock position is a date display. Sealing the design is a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal.
Framing the dial is a stainless steel case measuring 40mm in diameter. Moreover, the case is expertly constructed to ensure 10 bars or 100 metres of water resistance. Within it is Hamilton’s H-31 calibre automatic movement, which boasts 60 hours of power reserve. Finally, the watch’s sleek black calf leather strap secures it to the wrist and gives the watch its vintage charm. With its classy character, this Hamilton is the perfect timeless panda dial to inject some elegance into your collection.
Ball Watch Company Roadmaster Rescue Chronograph 41mm Limited Edition Stainless Steel Bracelet DC3030C-S-WHBK
Ball watches are known for their outstanding durability, and this panda Roadmaster is no exception. For instance, it has exemplary shock resistance of 5000 Gs, as well as a magnetic resistance of 4800 A/m. Additionally, it has 100 metres of water resistance and is built to weather temperatures as low as -45°C. For an added layer of protection, it is also protected by an Amortiser® patented anti-shock system.
The Roadmaster’s panda dial features micro gas tube technology, which ensures that it is readable in low light conditions too. Other functions on the dial include a subsidiary seconds feature, a weekday display, and a date aperture. But, above all else, its chronograph function is also very impressive. The chronograph has an accumulated measurement of up to 12 hours and a pulsometer graduated for 15 pulsations. Protecting all of the dial’s functionalities is a durable scratch-resistant sapphire crystal.
Completing the design is a 41mm titanium case with a matching bracelet. A unidirectional ceramic bezel sits upon the case and features stainless steel detailing. The case also houses the watch’s movement, which is Ball’s own BALL RR1402 automatic calibre. If you’re on the hunt for a sturdy panda dial companion, this Ball Roadmaster is unbeatable.
Tissot PRX Auto Chrono Valjoux White Black Steel T1374271101100
Next up is this luxurious Tissot PRX panda dial watch. Adding some contemporary edge to the classic panda dial design, rose gold accents accompany the three black subdials. These take the form of luminescent rose gold-tone baton indices and three matching central hands. Moreover, each subdial has its own rose gold-tone hand. For added precise timekeeping, sandwiched between 4 and 5 o’clock is a date display. Guaranteeing clarity, extending over the watch’s face is an anti-reflective sapphire crystal.
A 42mm stainless steel case frames the dial and integrates seamlessly into the watch’s lugs. Its ultra-slim design is typical of the PRX collection and sits comfortably on the wrist. The case also protects the watch’s automatic movement, which has a 60-hour power reserve. Finally, accompanying the case is a timeless stainless steel bracelet. With its contemporary rose gold twist, this Tissot PRX is one of the most stylish contenders on our list.
Maurice Lacroix Pontos S Chronograph 43mm White Dial PT6038-SSL22-130-1
Last but by no means least is Maurice Lacroix’s Pontos S Chronograph. Featuring a contemporary oversized dial, the Pontos S Chronograph fuses the brand’s Swiss watchmaking heritage with modern aesthetics. Accessorising the dial are silver baton indices and hands, both of which are luminescent. Moreover, resting next to the 3 o’clock position is a weekday and date display. Other functions on the dial include a 30-minute counter at 12 o’clock, a 12-hour counter at 6 o’clock, and a small seconds subdial at 9 o’clock. A slim black ceramic bezel surrounds the dial and sits on the 43mm stainless steel case.
There is also lots to appreciate mechanically about the Pontos S Chronograph. With features like its robust sapphire crystal, it is thoroughly protected through the use of high-quality materials. These also give the watch its outstanding 200 metres of water resistance, which ensures its dependability even under extreme conditions. Finally, powering the watch is the brand’s reliable ML112 automatic mechanical movement.
And that concludes our Top 5 Panda Dial Watches list! What do you think of the panda dial? We’d love to hear what you think in the comments section.
