The Iconic Panda Dial Watch

When it comes to luxury timekeeping, the Panda dial watch reigns supreme, a symbol of elegance and style. With its striking black and white color scheme, this watch mirrors the iconic markings for the animal its named after, the panda bear, creating a timeless allure. This dial first appeared on the luxury watch scene in the 60s and 70s, quickly becoming an icon and resonating with a generation of watch aficionados and styles connoisseurs.

Today, the Panda dial is not just a simple part of a timepiece; it’s a testament to the allure of classic designs in the luxury watch market. It continues to captivate the eyes of modern collectors and enthusiasts. The Panda dial maintains its revered position in the pantheon of horological marvels. It’s a legacy that wraps around your wrist. A symbol of refined taste.

Whether gracing the showcases of esteemed collectors or adorning the wrists of discerning individuals, the Panda dial watch remains a beloved jewel in the crown of contemporary watchmaking.

Panda Dial Watch: A Brief History

The Panda dial made its first notable appearance with the Breitling Superocean in 1957, featuring what we now call the Reverse Panda design – white subdials on a black main dial.

However, it was with the Rolex Daytona 6239 in 1963 that this design truly surged in popularity, cementing its place in the history of timepieces. This model sported a true Panda dial (white main dial with black subdials), setting a new standard in watch aesthetics and functionality, particularly in the racing world.

The association of the Daytona 6239 with actor and racing enthusiast Paul Newman further elevated its status, making it a highly sought-after model among collectors.

Variations of the Panda Dial

Classic Panda: This is the original style, featuring a white or silver main dial with contrasting black sub-dials.

Reverse Panda: Inverting the classic, this style has a black main dial with white or silver sub-dials.

Semi-Panda: A more subtle variation, combining elements of both the classic and reverse designs. This often refers to watches with a contrasting dial and sub-dials, but in other colors.

Vertical Panda: A less common design, where the contrasting colors are arranged vertically, at the 6, 9 and 12 o’clock positions, rather than in the typical horizontal layout.

5 Iconic Panda Dial Watches

1. Rolex Daytona Steel 116500

The Rolex Daytona Steel 116500, introduced in 2016, represents a significant evolution in the storied Daytona series. This model was the first in its line to feature the Cerachrom bezel, a notable advancement made by Rolex. The Cerachrom, a proprietary ceramic material, is renowned for its exceptional resistance to scratches and fading, signifying a leap in durability and aesthetic preservation.

The watch maintains the iconic 40mm stainless steel Oyster case, a hallmark of Rolex’s commitment to robustness and water resistance, safeguarded up to 100 meters (330 feet). Enhanced with a Triplock screw-down crown, it offers increased protection, especially in demanding environments.

At its heart, the 116500 is powered by Rolex’s in-house calibre 4130 movement, a testament to precision and reliability in chronograph movements. This movement, first introduced in 2000 with reference 116520, has been a cornerstone of Rolex’s chronograph technology.
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The dial design of the 116500 is particularly noteworthy, featuring a white background with black-outlined subdial registers. This design choice not only pays homage to some of the vintage Daytona models but also contributes to the watch’s classification as a Panda dial, a style celebrated for its high contrast and legibility.

2. Breitling Navitimer Cosmonaute A23322

The Breitling Navitimer Cosmonaute A23322 is a distinguished timepiece in the Navitimer series, reflecting a pivotal chapter in Breitling’s history. Launched in 2002 and produced until 2010, the A23322 represents a significant redesign from its predecessor, the Old Navitimer II. This model is a testament to Breitling’s continuous innovation and dedication to refining its iconic designs.

One of the key features of the A23322 is the introduction of the new caliber Breitling 24. This advanced movement is instrumental in achieving a dial layout reminiscent of the original 1960s Navitimer reference 806, paying homage to the rich heritage of the series while incorporating modern technological advancements. The Breitling 24 caliber is known for its precision, reliability, and robustness, making the A23322 not just a stylish accessory but a highly functional tool for professionals and enthusiasts alike.

The watch itself boasts a substantial presence on the wrist with a bezel diameter of 41.8mm, appealing to those who favor larger timepieces. The design also features tapered lugs, which add a touch of vintage charm and elegance to the watch. This aspect of the design ensures that the watch retains a classic aesthetic while being firmly rooted in contemporary style.
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A notable aspect of the A23322 is its convex sapphire glass crystals, which are glare-proofed on both sides. This ensures that the timepiece is not only durable and resistant to scratches but also offers clear and easy viewing under various lighting conditions.

The dial of the A23322 is a standout feature, showcasing contrasting subdials in a standard Panda dial configuration. Instead of a white background, the dial is a subtle silver, complemented by black subdials. This color scheme not only enhances the watch’s visual appeal but also improves readability. The contrasting subdials, located at the 3, 6, and 9 o’clock, complete the Panda dial feel, adding a dynamic and sporty touch to the watch.

3. TAG Heuer Carrera Heritage Glassbox CBS2210

The TAG Heuer Carrera Heritage Glassbox CBS2210 is a remarkable timepiece that was launched in 2023, marking the 60th anniversary of Tag Heuer’s iconic Carrera series. This model stands out with its modern design elements while paying homage to the classic aesthetics of the Carrera lineage.

Featuring a contemporary 39mm diameter, the CBS2210 deviates from traditional designs with its bezel-less construction. This design choice not only gives the watch a sleek and streamlined appearance but also enhances its overall elegance. The most notable feature of this model is the ‘glassbox’ crystal, seamlessly integrated into the midcase, which adds a unique depth and clarity to the watch face, allowing for easy reading of the time and chronograph functions.

The dial of the CBS2210 draws inspiration from the Heuer Carrera 2447 NST released in the 1960s, featuring a reverse Panda layout that is both classic and eye-catching. This layout comprises a striking black dial, providing a sharp contrast against the silver subdials, lending the watch a vintage yet sophisticated look. This contrast not only adds to the aesthetic appeal but also improves legibility.
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At the heart of the CBS2210 is the TH20-00 automatic chronograph movement, a testament to Tag Heuer’s commitment to innovation and modern watchmaking. While the Carrera series is known for its classic movements, the TH20-00 represents a more contemporary approach, offering improved performance, reliability, and precision. This movement is a significant upgrade, ensuring that the watch not only looks exquisite but also functions flawlessly.

4. Omega Speedmaster Date

The Speedmaster is known for its fusion of classic horology and modern technology. Its design emphasizes both aesthetic appeal and functional reliability. 

This watch features a large case at 40mm, while still maintaining modern desires. Key highlights include a precise automatic movement and an enhanced day-date display for practicality.

The Speedmaster Day-Date’s legacy is rooted in its historical significance, originating from the iconic Speedmaster series dating back to the 1950s, known for durability and precision, and its association with NASA’s Apollo missions.
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This particular variation sports a Panda dial under the scratch-resistant crystal. The silver dial is contrasted perfectly by three black sub-dials at 3, 6, and 9 o’clock, while red accents emphasize its sporty aesthetic.

5. Vacheron Constantin Overseas Panda Dial

The Vacheron Constantin Overseas Panda Dial Chronograph, released in 2023, is an exquisite addition to the world of luxury sports watches. This model is particularly noteworthy for its sophisticated design and advanced technical features, embodying the perfect blend of elegance and functionality that is characteristic of the Vacheron Constantin brand.

Crafted from stainless steel, the watch features an integrated bracelet, lending it a seamless and contemporary look. The integrated bracelet design not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also provides comfort and durability, making it suitable for both formal and casual wear. One of the most notable innovations in this model is the column-wheel chronograph movement, known for its precision and smooth operation, making it a favorite among watch enthusiasts.

The panda dial of the watch is a true visual delight. It features a silver-toned, sunburst satin-finished surface, complemented by black snailed subdials and a matching black rehaut. The use of a pale silver hue instead of a traditional white not only sets this watch apart from other panda dial designs but also adds a touch of sophistication and modernity. This color scheme is visually striking and enhances the readability of the dial.
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Final Thoughts

In the world of Panda dial watches, it’s clear that this design is more than just a trend; it’s a testament to the enduring appeal of classic aesthetics in watchmaking. For those looking to delve deeper or acquire one of these timeless pieces, SwissWatchExpo offers a curated selection of high-quality timepieces, embodying the elegance and sophistication that the Panda dial watch represents.