Dialled Up a Notch

We take a closer look at how Rolex designs its watch faces

- Aaron Pereira

In the world of luxury watchmaking, Rolex stands as a paragon of precision, innovation and artistry. One of the most eye-catching and critical aspects of a timepiece is its dial. And Rolex’s craftsmanship when it comes to its dial-making expertise is an area where the brand’s commitment to design and perfection is vividly displayed.

The dial plays an essential role in defining the aesthetic identity of a timepiece. Rolex’s approach to dial-making is rooted in a blend of traditional techniques and cuttingedge technology, a philosophy that allows the brand to produce dials that are both timeless and avantgarde. Each Rolex dial is a miniature masterpiece, requiring several months of meticulous research and development to ensure it meets the brand’s high standards of quality and innovation.

The maison’s dials are primarily made from a disc of brass or precious metals such as 18-karat yellow, white, or pink gold. The process of creating these dials involves a series of precise steps, from the initial design sketches to the final inspection. This journey includes colouring, the placement of appliqués, and various surface treatments. The skills involved range from enamelling—a craft dating back to the early days of watchmaking—to the application of modern technologies like PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition).