[Unique] Introducing watches from around the world with eye-catching, unusual designs

There are some watches in the world with surprisingly unusual designs. These watches have a unique appeal that is 180 degrees different from the practical watches that we use every day. In this article, we will explain the key points that determine the design of a watch and introduce six watches with unique designs.

Design deciding factors

What factors determine the design of a watch? Let's take a look at three elements that have a particularly large impact on the appeal of a model.

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The first is the dial color. Not only does the same design look different with a white or black dial, but blue dials, such as ice blue, instantly create a trendy look.

In addition to the color of the dial, the patterns and finishes applied to the dial are also a major factor in changing the atmosphere of the watch. By applying finishes such as guilloche engraving and original brand patterns, dial designs can be created that are in line with a concept or motif.

Material

Stainless steel is the standard case material for luxury watches. SUS316L, in particular, is ranked among the most common stainless steels, boasting excellent anti-magnetic properties, corrosion resistance, and rust resistance. It's also hypoallergenic, smooth against the skin, and exudes a luxurious sheen, making it a popular choice for watchmaking.

However, these are not the only materials used for watches. After stainless steel, gold and platinum are also commonly seen in luxury watches. In addition, more and more brands are now using titanium and ceramic.

Titanium is lighter than stainless steel, and ceramic is harder than stainless steel. Each material has a different texture, so changing the material changes the overall feel of the model.

Case

The shape of the case has the greatest impact on the impression a watch gives. While round is the most common, square and rectangular shapes are also common. Among these case shapes, the more unusual designs include triangle, tonneau, oval, and octagonal.

The triangle shape is typified by Hamilton's "Ventura," which will be introduced later, and the tonneau shape is typified by Franck Muller's "Tonneau Curvex." The oval shape is commonly seen in women's watches, while the octagonal shape is used in luxury sports watches offered by many brands, Bulgari's "Octo," and even G-SHOCK.

Even a simple square case can have a big impact depending on its size. For example, Bell & Ross's "Instruments" series features a large square case that almost covers the wrist. This shows that not only shape but also size has a big impact on design.

Dial Design

First, we will introduce two models with distinctive dial designs.

FP Journe Astronomic Souverain

FP Journe is a watch brand founded in Geneva, Switzerland in 1999. The brand name comes from its founder, François-Paul Journe, who is widely regarded as a modern-day genius watchmaker.

The Astronomic Souverain is a production version of a prototype that was put up for auction at the Only Watch auction held in 2019. This model can only be assembled by two watchmakers belonging to FP Journe, so only four pieces are produced per year.

As you can see from the dial, this model is equipped with numerous functions and complications, including dual time, moon phase, sunrise/sunset display, and annual calendar, for a total of 18 functions. Despite the large number of functions, the amount of information displayed on the dial is compact, and each function can be operated using only the crown.

Patek Philippe Complication 5935A

Patek Philippe will be showcasing a complication equipped with a function that is emblematic of the brand. When you think of world time, you think of Patek Philippe, and that's no surprise, as the world time function was developed by the brand and watchmaker Louis Cottier.

The dial, with its smooth brilliance and exquisite color, is opaline plated with rose gold. The pattern in the center is based on a carbon motif, and the shade changes depending on the light, making the design stand out.

This model supports 24 time zones around the world, but its operation is extremely simple. The intuitive operation of being able to change the display with a single push button located at 10 o'clock is also appealing.

Unique case

From here on, we will introduce models with distinctive case shapes and structures.

Minase Seven Windows

Minase, a brand founded in Minase, Akita Prefecture, is a subsidiary of Kyowa Seiko, a cutting tool manufacturer. Its unique domestically produced watches, which incorporate traditional Japanese craftsmanship and artisanal techniques, are gaining popularity.

As its name suggests, the Seven Windows model features seven windows on the case. The windows on the crystal, sides, and back cover, which are more open than usual, create a strong sense of space. Light passes through from window to window, creating a unique three-dimensional feel and a sense of openness.

This ultra-three-dimensional structure is made possible by MINASE's unique case-in-case design. The dial inside the case not only functions as the dial, but also serves as a "second case." Multiple layers overlap to protect the movement, creating a unique space.

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The most representative model of Hamilton is the Ventura, with its distinctive triangular case. The triangle, drawn with supple curves, exudes a sense of luxury while also feeling dressy and modern.

Although the Ventura is known for its unique style, it is actually easy to match with everyday outfits. It is available for both men and women, and the women's model, which combines a gold-colored case with a camel leather strap, is a perfect match for casual styles. The men's model also comes in a wide variety of colors and designs, making it a great choice for those looking for a unique pair of watches.

Features

Finally, we will introduce two models that are distinctive in terms of functionality. We have selected two that will appeal to men.

Graham Chronofighter Vintage

Founded in 1995, Graham takes its name from the British watchmaker George Graham (1673-1751), who is known as the "father of the chronograph" and is known for inventing various mechanisms, including the cylinder escapement.

The Chronofighter Vintage is an iconic collection from Graham. This chronograph features a bold design, with a striking control lever at 9 o'clock on the case reminiscent of a grenade. This design was developed for Royal Air Force pilots during World War II, and features a trigger-type pusher that allows the chronograph to be operated even while wearing gloves, such as during flight.

Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Classic Small Seconds

Jaeger-LeCoultre is a Swiss watch brand founded in 1833. It is highly popular among watch enthusiasts and is a prestigious manufacturer that stands out among the many watch brands.

The Reverso Classic is Jaeger-LeCoultre's signature collection. At first glance, it appears to be a simple, classical watch, but its rectangular case can be flipped over.

This gimmick was born in 1930, inspired by the sport of polo, which originated in England. Polo is an extremely violent sport, in which players hit a ball with a stick while riding a horse, and the reversible case of the Reverso Classic was conceived to prevent damage to the watch crystal during polo matches. The Reverso Classic Small Second has a simple mirror-finished back, but models with a second dial are also available.

Watches with infinite possibilities

The unique watches we have picked out this time are just a small part of the collection. There are so many watches with distinctive designs that it would be impossible to introduce them all in this article, and each one has its own charm.

Practical models are of course great, but we also want to look at unique watches that really pierce your heart and make you dance.