Have you ever noticed that the layout of a chronograph with three sub-dials resembles the face of a panda? That visual similarity has given rise to one of watchmaking’s most enduring nicknames. For decades, these distinctive dial layouts have simply been known as “panda dials.”
The panda dial owes much of its modern fame to Paul Newman’s legendary Rolex Daytona, which became one of the most expensive watches ever sold when it achieved nearly USD 17.8 million at auction in 2017. Frequently seen on the wrist of the American actor, the watch also cemented the panda dial’s status as one of the most desirable chronograph designs in watchmaking. Introduced in the 1960s, the Paul Newman Daytona has since become one of the most sought-after vintage timepieces among collectors. Let’s take a closer look at the dial design that helped shape its legacy.
While the term “panda dial” is instantly recognizable to seasoned enthusiasts, it deserves a brief explanation for newcomers. Traditionally, the name refers to a light-coloured dial, typically white or silver, paired with three contrasting black chronograph sub-dials. The nickname has nothing to do with a particular brand or model; rather, it stems from the resemblance to a panda’s face. The design itself emerged during the 1960s, when the close relationship between motorsport and watchmaking intensified. To maximize legibility during races, chronographs were designed with dark registers against bright backgrounds, giving birth to what we now call the panda dial.
Beyond their excellent readability, panda dials offer a timeless balance between vintage charm and contemporary appeal. Over the years, the concept has evolved into countless variations. Some designs place one of the sub-dials closer to the centre, while others reverse the colour scheme altogether, featuring dark dials with light-coloured registers—the style commonly referred to as the “reverse panda.” These reinterpretations have kept the panda dial fresh while preserving its unmistakable identity.
Baltic Scalegraph Classic Panda
Baltic’s Scalegraph Classic Panda pairs a matte light beige dial with three black guilloché chronograph counters. The contrast between black and beige is further enhanced by the applied hour markers, while the hands are coated with for improved legibility. Power comes from the , offering a .
