These Watches with Graphic Dials Are Having A Moment

Both during the everyday day, but especially so when the holidays are approaching, we often find ourselves longing for moments of joy – be it getting an overpriced yet incredibly satisfied cup of saccharine festive coffee or making an impulsive purchase at your local department store (those dressed windows are nothing short of enchantresses). And when that special moment is crystallized into something you can keep close, much like those old-timey lockets your beloved’s portrait inside, they become true treasures. 

 

With this sentimental philosophy in mind, we’ve curated a collection of watches whose graphic dials stand out from their peers with their artistry and technical prowess. From a 19th-century hour striker sculpted atop a sea of blue to the functional maps of celestial bodies, these pieces satiate your eyes and ignite your imagination. 

Patek Philippe Sky Moon Celestial Platinum & Rose Gold Blue Dial

Crowning this list of our graphic watches, of course, the majestic Patek Philippe Sky Moon Celestial. Not only is its dial a masterpiece, but it also holds significant functionality—the ref. 5102PR features an exquisite rotating chart depicting celestial bodies, allowing the lucky owner to marvel at the precise arrangement of stars and phases of the moon in the northern hemisphere, as they appear to move across the sky. Time is indicated by two skeletonized hands, while an elegant ellipse frames the visible portion of the sky for those in Geneva or cities on a similar latitude. Regardless of your interest in astronomy or astrology, or simply admiring the beauty of the stars with a flick of your wrist, this horological wonder will surely captivate you. 

Patek Philippe World Time Rose Gold Cloisonne Enamel USA Asia Map

The Patek Philippe World Time 5131 stands as a testament to the greatness of modern world timers. Its inspiration can be traced back to the earliest Patek Philippe World Timer, Reference 605 HU, a pocket watch featuring a Cottier World Time movement and a spectacular central enamel dial with a vibrant world map. The case and caliber are essential components that contribute to the 5131's exceptional quality, but it is truly the dial where its enchantment lies. The watch is a perfect blend of style and practicality, with its centerpiece being the cloisonné enamel map. Enamel dials are known for their meticulous craftsmanship, achieved through repeated layers and intense heat treatments of silica suspension. But cloisonné takes this level of difficulty to new heights. It involves creating an intricate wire framework that outlines each landmass, filling it in with different colored enamels, and painstakingly blending them to create a stunning miniature work of art.

Cartier d’Art Rotonde de Cartier Rose Gold Limited Edition

One could argue that laying eyes on the limited-edition Cartier's d'Art Rotonde de Cartier is akin to admiring a masterpiece. The iconic panther, a symbol of the maison, stalks across the dial in stunning detail. Upon closer inspection, one can appreciate the intricate golden lines, reminiscent of fine damask stitching, expertly crafted through the technique called Rigato. The black backdrop only enhances the regal portrayal of the panther, making this watch truly captivating and sure to spark conversation. Powered by a manual winding movement, it allows for timekeeping with impeccable precision while showcasing Cartier's renowned artistry. With a water resistance of 30 meters, this watch is perfect for any occasion.

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Steel Celebration

Dubbed 'Celebration', this whimsical design can be found on Rolex's Oyster Perpetual 31, Oyster Perpetual 36, and Oyster Perpetual 41 models. The motif features varying sizes of bubbles outlined in black, capturing the bold hues of the lacquered dials released in 2020. Vibrant turquoise serves as the background color, while candy pink, yellow, coral red, and green add pops of color to the bubbles. Luminescent hour markers and hands ensure effortless readability. Powered by a self-winding caliber 3230 movement, this timepiece offers impeccable precision and reliable performance.

Chanel J12 Cybernetic Ceramic Black Dial

Chanel's latest forays into the world of horology are most prominently displayed in its J12 series. As is well known, all of Chanel's designs are rooted in the fashion elements tied to its iconic founder, and the ref. H7988 is no different. Though one may mistake the checked design on its face and border for digital pixels or a racing flag, it actually pays homage to tweed - the beloved fabric of Coco Chanel that has come to symbolize the brand's illustrious legacy in haute couture.

Ulysse Nardin San Marco Hour Striker Blue Dial Platinum

One of Ulysse Nardin’s more obscure watch models, the San Marino Hour Striker is a truly curious specimen. Firstly, the name itself refers to one of the most sights-heavy sestieri in Venice. First launched in 1996, this watch doesn’t feature a cloisonne image or a Rigato engraving, but rather a sculpture – of an hour striker next to a bell (made out of noble platinum to match its case, of course). Together with the elegant Roman numerals, the figurine looks most enchanting against the Yves-Klein-blue enamel. At the heart of the watch lies the 75W-11-17 automatic movement, boasting 21 jewels for precision and reliability. The unique hour-striking mechanism plays a melodious chime, reminiscent of a bell tolling, allowing you to experience time in a delightful and refined manner.

Jaeger-LeCoultre Rendez Vous Moon White Gold Diamond Blue Dial

We couldn’t resist including another watch with a celestial map on its dial, and it’s none other than the Jaeger-LeCoultre Rendez Vous Moon in white gold with diamonds. Though it's rather complex, it still attains a certain level of visual harmony. At 6 o’clock, we see a captivating map of constellations which also conceals a moonphase complication. On the top, serving as a dropback for the stunning cobalt-blue Arabic numerals, are the plates of mother-of-pearl waves, which act as a curious textural accent to the whole piece.