How Rolex and the Date Window Changed the Face of Watches

Most watch lovers likely can't imagine a time when the humble date window found on watches of all kinds today was considered innovative Second only to the display of time itself, this is probably the most practically useful information a watch can offer, and watches haven't looked the same since It is worth pointing out that watch designers have the technical ability to place the date window anywhere on the dial, so long it is on the disc's path and the numbers are oriented accordingly.

Calendar watches would often display the date around the dial's periphery with a centrally mounted hand to indicate it The window concept could also be found on such calendar watches where discs beneath the dial would display the month and day of the week In response, many watch companies have begun offering more no-date options as well as making an effort to better match the color of the date wheel to that of the dial.

Refinements are welcome, but ask any watch salesperson: consumers overwhelmingly prefer watches that feature the simple and genuinely useful date display. . Source