Unlike the panda you might find in a zoo, the panda watch dial has never been endangered. The market offers many watches with panda dials. Here are some of the best.
After the Rolex Daytona with the “Paul Newman” dial was auctioned for a record $17.5 million in 2017, the panda dial has been the subject of much intrigue and curiosity. Ultimately, it was the famous Crown that brought it to life.
Its beloved motorsport-inspired dial became a catalyst for the popularity of racing watches.
The legendary actor and racer wore them during various races, sparking great excitement. He received them as a gift after a car accident, and they became part of his persona.
Such panda dial watches aren't as rare as you might think. Despite their unique aesthetics, many brands offer designs with this color scheme. There are both new and vintage models. Before we look at some of the most popular, let's understand what truly defines these watches.
What Are Panda Dial Watches?
So, what are panda dial watches? The term “panda watch” refers to a chronograph dial style that emerged in the 1960s. Given that this configuration and contrasting color choices enhance readability, it’s no surprise this chronograph garnered such interest.
Typically, in such watches, the chronograph counters, filled with black paint, are placed on a white dial in a 3-6-9 layout. But there are variations.
Sometimes, panda dial watches have three chronographs, sometimes not. Sometimes they include a matching black tachymeter, sometimes not. Sometimes the main dial is white, sometimes cream, silver, or champagne-colored.
Different versions may feature a bicompax layout, with the counters at the “3” and “9 o’clock” positions. Regardless of the variant, the important factor is the contrasting black and white (or nearly white) combination.
Of course, you don't need a degree in physics and astronomy to understand where panda watches got their name. They might not have the same cuteness factor as the fluffy bear cub itself.
Those fluffy ears and black eye patches can melt you in seconds. But what the panda dial lacks in charm, it makes up for with character and allure.
History of the Panda Chronograph
From what we know, the Rolex Daytona ref 6239 seems to have marked the beginning of Panda's creation. These legendary racing watches appeared around the same time as the Heuer Carrera. This model remains one of the most collectible in history. But that's another story!
The Rolex Daytona Panda is the watch that ended up on the wrist of the famous racer Paul Newman. Since then, its high-contrast dial has become inextricably linked with sports.
In the same period, other similar versions of this high-contrast dial were popular, especially the reverse panda type. For example, in 1957, Breitling released the Superocean watch with such a dial. In 1966, the company followed suit, releasing its version of the panda chronograph.
Rolex Daytona Panda
As I mentioned, the Rolex Daytona panda model, released in 1963, has since remained a highly sought-after design. Models 6263 and 6265 are two primary models that define this style. Today, we see this design in more modern interpretations, such as models 116500LN and 126500LN.
These models feature the dial we dubbed “Paul Newman,” with black subdials set against a white display. They use the iconic “5 circles” design. This refers to the bezel, black minute track, and three subdials at the “3,” “6,” and “9 o’clock” positions.
Rolex Daytona Ref 126500LN
The modern version of the panda Rolex Daytona 126500LN demonstrates the evolution of the brand's iconic design. The white color creates a clear background for the three black rings forming the chronograph counters.
Rolex Daytona
The watch, released in 2023, features a slightly modified case shape and subtly refined subdial rings, which have become thinner. The bezel now has a Cerachrom insert for more prolonged fade resistance, as well as framing with longer indices.
Among other improvements when comparing modern and original Daytona Panda watches are the Triplock crown, the Oysterflex bracelet, and the Oysterlock clasp. The new version's movement is also equipped with a Parachrom hairspring and Paraflex shock absorber.
Seiko Panda Chronograph
The Seiko Panda Chronograph, specifically model 6138-8020, is another legendary collectible. Appearing in 1973, it became synonymous with the world of motorsport and aviation.
It was one of the first automatic chronographs in the world, holding true historical significance for the Japanese brand. It was even worn on the wrist of Steve McQueen, known for his relationship with the iconic TAG Heuer Monaco.
The Seiko 6138-8020 model is no longer produced, but at the time, it featured quite innovative characteristics. The panda-shaped dial housed a tachymetric scale, polished hour markers, and black hands, driven by an in-house movement. This movement is equipped with a vertical clutch and column wheel, ensuring smoother operation.
Prospex ‘Panda’ One-Hundredth of a Second Speedtimer Solar Chronograph ref SFJ001P1
You can still enjoy Seiko panda chronographs today, such as the Prospex ‘Panda’ One-Hundredth of a Second Speedtimer Solar Chronograph. This model ref SFJ001P1 represents a more modern interpretation with an unusual layout.
The chronograph features subdials at the “9,” “12,” and “3 o’clock” positions, as well as main timing hands in a large subdial at the “6H” position.
These solar-powered steel watches are equipped with the caliber 8A50 chronograph movement, which measures time to the hundredths of a second. Additionally, the watches feature hammer-shaped pushers, adding uniqueness to the familiar panda watch design.
Tudor Panda Chronograph
The Tudor Panda Chronograph from the Black Bay series continues the collection's neo-vintage style. The Black Bay model has a legible dial and a robust diver's bezel. It played a significant role in Tudor's revival in the 2010s.
To say that the Tudor Black Bay Panda watch is a more affordable version of the Daytona chronograph from the related brand would be untrue. The stopwatch based on the Black Bay model appeared in 2017. It combined diving elements and racing features.
Tudor Black Bay Chrono Ref 79360N
In 2021, Tudor released the Black Bay Chrono in “panda” and “reverse panda” designs. The classic panda interpretation features a black anodized aluminum bezel insert and the collection's signature