Rolex Arabic Dials – All You Need To Know
Featured Brand: Rolex
The Middle East has become a thriving hub for watch enthusiasts, and Rolex certainly tapped into this growing interest. They delighted watch connoisseurs by introducing their iconic Arabic Rolex watches tailored specifically for the region.
If you’ve ever laid your eyes on an Arabic Rolex model, you’ll understand why it’s so sought-after. These watches showcase a particularly collectable trait: their dials feature Eastern Arabic numerals.
Their unique design and cultural significance made them incredibly popular worldwide. Notable personalities like Jay Z, Tom Brady, Mark Wahlberg, and DJ Khaled have all been spotted wearing these exquisite timepieces.
Interested in discovering more about Rolex Arabic dials? Keep reading!
What Numerals Are Commonly Used for Luxury Watches?
Arguably, one of the most important aesthetic components of a watch is the face, also known as the dial. It’s not just a pretty face; the dial can actually make a significant difference in the value of a luxury watch.
Let’s take a look at some of the most common dial numeral types displayed on luxury watches:
- Roman: This design features a combination of letters from the Latin alphabet. Roman numerals have long been a classic look for watch dials, as seen in this Rolex Day-Date.
- Batons: Another popular style, batons are thick and rectangular in shape, enhancing their readability. A notable example is the Rolex Oyster Perpetual.
- Round Indexes: Round indexes also offer greater readability. They’re often paired with a combination of baton, arrow, and triangular indexes as seen in the Rolex GMT-Master II ‘Batgirl’.
- Arrow Indicator: Arrow indicators are a common style of marker used in Rolex watches. It appears as a downward-pointing triangle in the twelve-o’clock position, as seen in the Rolex GMT-Master II ‘Batman’.
- Diamond Markers: Purely for aesthetic purposes, these markers consist of precious diamonds placed at the hour positions on the dial. A stunning example of this is the Rolex Date Just Black Diamond Dial.
- Western Arabic: These numerals, which include the digits 0 – 9, originated in India and eventually spread throughout the world. Nowadays, we use Western Arabic numerals as a standard way to represent numbers on the dial, such as found on this Richard Mille Blue Ceramic.
- Eastern Arabic: Eastern Arabic numerals, also known as Indo-Arabic numerals, are the symbols used to represent numbers alongside the Arabic alphabet. These numerals are commonly used in the Arab world, particularly in the eastern regions. The Rolex Day-Date with an ice-blue dial is a stunning example of an Eastern Arabic dial.
The Difference Between Western and Eastern Arabic Numerals
Eastern Arabic numerals are commonly used in the Arab world, particularly in the eastern regions. They are shown as ٠,١,٢,٣,٤, and so on. The numbers are read from left to right – just as they are in English.
On the other hand, Western Arabic numerals are the familiar numbers we see and use today (0,1,2,3, and so on). These originated from the Hindu-Arabic numeral system and were later spread throughout the world.
It’s important to note that when we talk about “Arabic dials” in watches, we’re referring to Eastern Arabic numbers.
The History of Rolex Arabic Dials
Let’s take a closer look at the fascinating history of Rolex Arabic dials.
In the 1950s, Rolex recognised the growing prominence of the Middle East, particularly oil-rich countries. They saw an opportunity to tap into a market of affluent customers in this region. Thus, Rolex introduced Arabic dials on their watches.
Initially, these watches found favour among Middle Eastern kings, sultans, and wealthy individuals associated with the oil industry. The exquisite craftsmanship of the Rolex Arabic dial became a symbol of prestige and luxury.
Production of Arabic dial Rolex watches continued until the 1970s when it eventually ceased. However, in 2016, Rolex revived the Arabic dial Day-Date model, producing a limited number of them, including the highly sought-after ice-blue dial.
Today, Arabic dial Rolex watches are admired not only in the Middle East but also among affluent individuals in sports, entertainment, and music.
Materials Used in Rolex Arabic Dial Watches
One of Rolex’s secrets to achieving top-notch quality and aesthetics is to rigorously select, and even manufacture, the materials for its watches. The Rolex Arabic dial watches are no exception.
Rolex uses platinum in the production of many of their Arabic dial watches. The performance of this material is incomparable, and as the most valued precious metal, it just reinforces that unique Rolex exclusivity.
This choice shows Rolex’s focus on targeting ultra-wealthy individuals in the Middle East. Interestingly, Rolex’s choice to use platinum in their watches with Arabic dials might also be because they consider the preferences of their Muslim audience. In Islamic culture, wearing gold is considered “haram” or forbidden for Muslim men.
In addition to the metal case and solid-link bracelet, the Arabic dial of these watches may incorporate other materials and decorative elements, such as diamonds and precious gemstones.
Rolex Models with Arabic Dials
Let’s take a look at some of the most sought-after Rolex Arabic dial models.
Rolex Day-Date Blue Dial
Rolex officially reintroduced the Arabic dial with the Day-Date 40 Arabic Edition in 2016, and it’s been a hit ever since. This model, supplied only to select dealers in the Middle East, is incredibly rare.
This timepiece boasts a 40mm platinum case and a distinctive ice-blue dial with an Arabic calendar and numerals. Adding to its exclusivity is a diamond baguette bezel and the iconic President bracelet in platinum.
Rolex Day-Date Green Arabic Dial
The green twin to the Day-Date Blue Dial, the Day-Date Green Arabic Dial is an exquisite timepiece that combines the exceptional craftsmanship you see from Rolex with Middle Eastern flair. Its 40mm 18K platinum case houses a beautiful olive-green dial and Arabic numerals.
Secured with a signature President bracelet and diamond baguette bezel, the day and date windows, both in Arabic, are positioned at 12 o’clock and 3 o’clock.
What is So Special About Rolex Arabic Dials?
Now, the burning question on everyone’s mind is “What makes the Rolex Arabic dials so special?”. The answer: their rarity.
Rolex only produces a limited number of watches with Arabic dials, making them incredibly hard to come by. Due to this rarity, Rolex Arabic dial watches are considered some of the most valuable timepieces produced by Rolex.
What makes them even more extraordinary is the scarcity of older models with Arabic dials. These vintage timepieces are exceptionally rare and seldom come out for sale on the market. But when they do, they often appear at auctions at exceptionally high prices.
Final Thoughts
Rolex Arabic dials hold a special place in the world of luxury watches. Their exclusivity, limited production, and association with affluence in the Middle East make them highly sought-after timepieces.
Looking to enjoy an exclusive watch on your wrist? Global Boutique is your answer. Explore our curated collection of luxury watch brands, including an authentic Rolex Day-Date Blue Dial, complete with the original box and papers.
Do you have a specific watch model in mind but can’t find it in our shop? Fret not, we can source most luxury watches within a day! Simply get in touch via our Watch Sourcing Service or chat to us on WhatsApp!
