Unusual Watch Dial Materials: De Bethune, Hublot, Hermès

Alkiro1 · 2017-11-17T08:10:51Z

Explore the most unusual watch dial materials, from blued meteorite to straw marquetry. Alkiro1 and the community showcase unique dials from De Bethune, Hublot, Hermès, and more.

Alkiro1

WPS member · Horological Meandering forum

42 replies5692 views6 photos

Alkiro1 explores the fascinating world of unconventional watch dials, moving beyond traditional materials to highlight brands pushing the boundaries of horological artistry. His original post showcases several unique examples, inviting the WatchProSite community to share their own discoveries and insights into the most unusual dial materials.

42 collectors discussing this on the WatchProSite forumJoin the Conversation →

Hi all,

We know that watch brands have a lot of imagination to use new materials and methods to offer us very unusual dials.

Of course, we all know enamel, silver, gold, MOP, lacquered, onyx, etcetera dials.

Below, I listed few dials which are truly unusual for me. Of course, these examples are not exhaustive and I would be pleased to know what are the most unusual materials used for a dial you have in mind.

An impressive De Bethune tourbillon with a blued meteorite dial. If meteorite dials are relatively common, the true genius of De Bethune has been to blued one.

During our Swiss GTG last June, we have had the chance to see one in real and it’s just incredible. To my knowledge, only De Bethune already made one like this.

Bronze Ochs und Junior which belongs to Manilx and which offers a unique copper patinated dial. One again, something truly unique for me. Splendid!

If the use of straw is not unique (Cartier made one with a koala for instance), it’s quite rare. Here we have a nice example with the Hermès Arceau with a straw marquetry dial.

Another impressive dial made by Hublot with its Classic Fusion Tourbillon Vitrail. If I’m right, something unique again.

Ralph Lauren with an elm burl wood dial which was inspired by the interior of a 1938 Bugatti which belongs to... Ralph Lauren.

Something more “casual” with the Hublot (again!) Classic Fusion Jeans whose dial is a piece of jeans as the name indicates.

Best wishes

Alkiro

Key Points from the Discussion

Girard-Perregaux has utilized materials like moon dust and lava for their dials, demonstrating a commitment to unique and exotic aesthetics.
Girard-Perregaux also created a dial made from a specific type of wood, further expanding the range of natural materials used in watchmaking.
Hublot has experimented with leather and linen dials, offering tactile and unconventional textures that challenge traditional perceptions of watch aesthetics.
Maison Celadon created a silk dial, hand-knitted in Suzhou, showcasing the intricate craftsmanship and cultural heritage that can be incorporated into watch design.
Hublot's collaboration with Berluti resulted in a leather dial, highlighting the brand's innovative approach to integrating fashion and horology.
Ochs und Junior once crafted a dial from the planks of a US aircraft carrier for a captain, illustrating bespoke and highly personalized material choices.

The Discussion

KtWP

Nov 17, 2017

How about silk?

Silk dial from Maison Celadon, knit in Suzhou (famous for their silks).

Alkiro1

Nov 17, 2017

Another perfect example of a truly unique dial. Thank you for sharing 👍

Best wishes Alkiro

KtWP

Nov 17, 2017

Thanks for compiling spectacular and interesting dials! [nt]

Alkiro1

Nov 17, 2017

My pleasure 🙏

I’m sure few other PuristS will show us other interesting timepieces that I forgot 😉 Best wishes Alkiro

andrewluff

Nov 17, 2017

That Debethune is to die for...

The dial is amazing and was lucky enough to have it on my wrist for a while. I like the idea of using something different, I have been intrigued by the green of the Ochs and Junior. Also leather or linen dials from Hublot... Cheers Andrew

Alkiro1

Nov 17, 2017

If I could own only one De Bethune that would be this one. Absolutely gorgeous

Best wishes Alkiro