Watch complications: dials that make the difference

You may have come across a watch dial and noticed something more than just the time: a series of additional sub-dials and hands, each with its specific purpose and function. Ever wondered what they represent? These are known as complications in the world of horology – functions that make each watch unique.

In this article, we’ll explain the most common dial types and their utility. We hope it helps you learn how to read more than just the time. 

What are Watch Complications?

A complication in horology is any function that goes beyond simple time-telling. These extra functions often appear on secondary sub-dials or other parts of the watch face. Popular complications include chronographs, moon phases, dates, and seconds counters. Each one offers precision, useful information, and always a unique touch to the piece. 

Chronograph

If you're a watch enthusiast, you'll know that reading time isn’t the same as measuring it. The chronograph complication helps with the latter, being one of the most common and versatile in horology. This dial type allows you to measure specific time intervals, like in a race or sporting activity. A chronograph usually has a series of sub-dials that indicate seconds, minutes, and even hours of measured time. When you activate the chronograph, a countdown parallel to the main time starts, allowing you to track elapsed time precisely. 

Perpetual Calendar

The perpetual calendar is a complication that displays the exact date, including day, month, and in some cases, even the year and moon phase. This dial automatically adjusts for the days in each month, and in high-end watches, even for leap years. It’s one of the most sophisticated complications, perfect for those who value precise calendar management without needing constant adjustments. 

Moon Phase

The moon phase is a dial that displays the phases of the moon, indicating its current phase (full, new, first quarter, or last quarter). While it might not be practical for everyday use for most people, this complication is highly valued in luxury watches for its beauty and symbolism. It represents a connection with nature and adds an aesthetic element that enhances the watch’s elegance. 

GMT: Dual Time Zone

GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) is a complication in horology that allows two time zones to be displayed on the same watch. Originally, GMT refers to the "Greenwich Meridian Time," the official time of the 0° meridian, which crosses Greenwich in London and forms the basis for other time zones. The GMT complication is perfect for those needing to track two time zones simultaneously. A watch with this dial typically has an additional hand displaying a second time in a 24-hour format. It’s especially useful for frequent travellers or those working across time zones. 

Power Reserve

The power reserve dial shows how much energy the watch has left before it needs to be rewound. This complication is very useful in mechanical watches, where knowing the remaining autonomy is essential for ensuring proper functioning. With this information, you’ll know when it’s the right time to wind it up. 

More Than Just an Accessory

Each horological complication tells a story and adds value to the piece, turning it into something more than just an accessory. These details are hallmarks of quality and functionality in the world of luxury horology, allowing you to wear a piece of engineering and art on your wrist. From chronographs to moon phases, each dial connects you to time in a unique way.

At Iguana, we invite you to explore our selection of luxury watches, where each complication and dial is designed to take the concept of time to a new dimension.