Using watches as a canvas, various companies are creating the latest gradient dials

Nowadays, the color dials of watches have become more and more versatile. This time, we will introduce a model that uses a gradient dial, which adds even more individuality by adding shades of light and dark.

A must-have model with a gradient dial

　Many brands are now focusing on color dials with a variety of hues. While basic dial colors like black, white, and silver were once the norm, advances in manufacturing technology have made it possible to consistently create complex colors, resulting in a lineup of color dials with a wide variety of colors, including green, red, and brown. These color dials have also become a way to embody a brand's worldview and values, and in today's world where watches are recognized not only as a tool for checking the time but also as a means of self-expression, they allow the wearer to choose a watch that reflects their tastes.

　So, this time, we'd like to take a step further from color dials and focus on gradient dials. Gradient dials, which have varying shades of color on the dial, show a variety of different expressions depending on the angle and amount of light. What will each brand express on the canvas of the dial through gradation?

Seiko "King Seiko KS1969" Ref.SDKA021

　This new King Seiko model for 2024 follows the design of the 45KCM, which was released in 1969. The elegantly curved case features a mirrored finish, giving it the refined look of a dress watch. The three-dimensional indexes, with an arrowhead cut only at the 12 o'clock position, add a design accent and improve readability. The box-shaped sapphire crystal enhances the classic impression.

　The bracelet features 13 links, each with a mirror finish and a hairline finish. Each link is intricately crafted, providing a comfortable fit that conforms to the wrist. While the original model was equipped with a manual winding movement that vibrates at 10 vibrations per second, this model uses the Cal. 6L35, a thin automatic movement.

　The deep green dial represents Tokyo as a city brimming with greenery. The gradation that gradually darkens from the center to the outside and the intricate pattern applied all over represent Tokyo as a city that nurtures diverse living things. The calm color is easy to use in both formal and casual settings.

Orient Star "M34 F7 Semi-Skeleton" Ref.RK-BY0001A

　Orient Star's semi-skeleton watch features a mysterious and striking gradation dial with an aurora motif. The dial is made of mother-of-pearl and finished with a blue-green gradation paint.

　At 12 o'clock is Orient Star's signature power reserve indicator, at 6 o'clock is the small second hand, and at 9 o'clock is an opening that allows you to enjoy the beating of the balance wheel, and the three-dimensional effect created by each element is also attractive.

　The "M34" in the model name is the number that indicates the open star cluster in the constellation Perseus in the Messier Catalogue, which classifies nebulae, star clusters, and galaxies. The watch is dotted with details that evoke Perseus, the hero of Greek mythology, such as the edgy lugs and the powerful hour and minute hands.

　The movement is the automatic mechanical movement F7F44, which has a power reserve of approximately 50 hours. The case back allows you to admire the striped decorations and perlage on the bridges and rotor.

Omega Seamaster 300 Summer Blue Ref. 234.30.41.21.03.002

　The Omega Seamaster Summer Blue, released in 23, was released in a total of 11 models, and its blue gradient dial, which changes color depending on the water resistance, became a hot topic. This model is based on the Seamaster 300, which follows the design of the model released in 1957. It is water resistant to 300m, placing it in the middle of the summer blue range.

　The dial has a gradient that darkens towards the outside, with a bright center that resembles the light shining on the surface of the water when viewed from underwater. The hollowed-out indexes, luminous paint on the hour and minute hands, and the bezel are also finished in blue, giving the watch a unified color scheme.

　The case back features a raised engraving of Poseidon and a Seahorse, which is held in place by the unique Naiad Lock.

　The movement is the highly accurate and anti-magnetic Cal. 8912, which has been certified as a Master Chronometer. The use of a coaxial escapement extends the time between overhauls.

Longines "Longines Legend Diver" Ref. L3.774.4.70.2

　The Longines Legend Diver is a reproduction of the design of the Ref. 7042, a diver's watch released by Longines in 59. Although it is a diver's watch, it does not have a rotating outer bezel, but rather measures dive time using an inner bezel that can be operated with the crown at the 2 o'clock position. Combined with the slender lugs, it has a stylish design.

　The Legend Diver comes in a wide variety of sizes and colors, but the model featured here is a 42mm case with a gray gradient dial. The indices are a cream color that evokes the aging process, and together with the faded gray gradient, it creates a vintage feel. This is a use of the gradient dial that is typical of Longines, a master of reproductions.

　The movement used is the Cal. 888, which has a power reserve of approximately 72 hours and a silicon balance spring that is highly resistant to magnetism. This is the company's flagship movement and is known for its outstanding reliability.

Jaeger-LeCoultre Polaris Chronograph Ref. Q902843J

　The current "Polaris" collection, inspired by the "Memovox Polaris" released in 68, is a collection that combines elegance and sportiness. One of the models, the "Polaris Chronograph," is a two-counter chronograph watch with a 30-minute counter at 3 o'clock and a small second hand at 9 o'clock.

　The dial is made up of several sections, including a sunray-brushed central disc, a grained ring, subdials, and a flange with an opaline-finished tachymeter, and is enriched with a gradation of grey, achieved through approximately 40 layers of varnish, followed by clear and coloured lacquers.

　The watch is equipped with the Cal. 761 automatic chronograph movement, which employs a vertical clutch and column wheel, and its exquisite finish can be admired through the caseback. It comes with a beige fabric strap and a black rubber strap.