Recently, we have been seeing a surge in ‘bicompax’ dial models. It’s a term that has been thrown around for a while, but there are conflicting definitions of it over time. For example, many are adamant that it traditionally refers to a watch with two dial complications on the dial, rather than just a watch with two subdials (also known as a ‘bi-register’ dial). However, times have changed and language has loosened. Many brands nowadays violate this traditional definition of the ‘bicompax dial’ but still label their watches as so. As a result, the term is a lot more fluid in its contemporary definition and often includes bi-register dials. Whichever way you choose to define it, the core benefit of the bicompax watch is the same: clarity. So, for those who want a highly legible and cleanly designed watch, read on for our best Trends to Watch: Bicompax Dials contenders.
Trends to Watch: the Best Bicompax Dials
Raymond Weil Freelancer Pop Bi-Compax Chronograph Limited Edition (43.5mm) Black & Turquoise Dial / Titanium 7780-TI-20425
The first bicompax model on our list is this stylish Raymond Weil Freelancer. At the centre of its dark dial are two turquoise subdials positioned next to 3 and 9 o’clock. With their bright and contrasting colour, these subdials both introduce a pop of colour whilst enhancing the chronograph’s ease of reading. To create a cohesive design, various turquoise accents also adorn the dial. Finishing touches like its silver-tone luminescent indices and hands balance out the design and match the silver colour of its silhouette.
Moreover, with a full titanium build and 100 metres of water resistance, the watch also boasts excellent durability. Likewise, its automatic movement is equipped with a fair 56-hour power reserve, so the Freelancer also boasts great stamina.
Sinn 356 Pilot Classic W Bicompax (38.5mm) Matt-Silk White Dial / Brown Leather 356.0201 LEATHER
The recently released Sinn 356 Pilot Classic W also jumps on the bicompax trend. One of the brand’s staple lines, the 356 Pilot has a reputation for being a powerful chronograph. This model was launched as part of the collection’s 25th-anniversary celebrations and features a beautiful black-on-white dial design, which is also referred to as a ‘panda dial’. In addition to its attentive monochrome design, large Arabic numeral hour markers and well-built black hands also increase its readability.
Within its 38.5mm satinised stainless steel case is a mighty SW 510 automatic movement that uses 27 bearing jewels and 28,800 semi-oscillations per hour to power the watch. Thanks to its careful build, it’s also anti-magnetic as per DIN 8309 and water resistant up to 100 metres. For an elegant finish to the design, completing the watch’s silhouette is a beautiful dark grey Nubuck wild boar leather strap.
Duckworth Prestex Chronograph 42 (42mm) Black Sunburst Dial / Black Horween Leather D550-01-A
Duckworth Prestex boasts a charming portfolio full of retro-inspired pieces. Its Chronograph 42 collection puts a vintage spin on the bicompax dial trend, with this black colourway being one of our favourites. Similarly to the Sinn, this watch prioritises legibility with its reverse panda dial design. Trimmings like the luminescent hands and indices match the silver tone of the model’s 42mm stainless steel cushion-shaped case, whilst a sumptuous gold-tone third hand upholds the luxurious feel of the model. In fact, its cohesive detailing is considered right down to the topstitching on the watch’s padded Horween leather strap, which is also gold in tone.
But, there’s also lots to love mechanically about this model too. Unlike the others on this list, this Duckworth Prestex is powered by a reliable quartz movement, so you don’t have to worry about keeping it charged up. It uses Miyota’s 6S21 calibre, which has an outstanding accuracy of +/-20s per month.
FORTIS Flieger F-43 Bicompax Liberty Blue (43mm) Stainless Steel Block Bracelet F4240012
A brand renowned for its wacky space testing stunts, we could not leave Fortis out of our list. This piece is part of the brand’s Flieger F-43 collection and features a classic blue brushed dial at its centre. Although its two subdials match the main dial colour, the minimisation of multiple colours actually helps its readability. For instance, the monochrome design allows the bold Brixtrack® minute and hour markers and central hands to take centre stage. However, a feature that really makes it a real stand-out on our list is its additional GMT bezel. This allows the display of two different timezones at once, perfect for any avid explorer.
At its core, an automatic movement with a two-day power reserve keeps the watch operating smoothly. Moreover, it is water resistant up to a pressure of 200 metres thanks to its sturdy 43mm case.
Herbelin Newport 35th Anniversary Automatic Limited Edition (350 Pieces) Blue Dial / Blue Leather 256T35
Any Herbelin fans are bound to love this bicompax Newport piece. This stunning piece celebrates the Newport collection’s 35th anniversary and boasts a beautiful nautical blue and gold colour scheme. Whilst its blue dial reinforces the collection’s maritime roots, touches like the silver subdials and steel insert on the bezel introduce some contrast to the design. These are topped with gold accents, which both add a luxurious edge to the design and tie into the model’s gold PVD-plated stainless steel case. Finally, topping off its elegant feel is a classical blue leather strap.
Using a Sellita 13¼ SW 510 hybrid automatic movement, the watch is also in safe hands mechanically. To this end, the watch is also water resistant up to 100 metres, so it’s certain to withstand everyday wear. But, be sure to act fast as there are only 350 pieces available worldwide.
We hope that you enjoyed our Trends to Watch: Bicompax Dials edition! Know of any more bicompax pieces you want to share with some fellow watch aficionados? Drop your recommendations in the comments below!
