What is a bezel and why is it important? ⌚✨

A bezel (also called ring, rim, or lunette) is a structural element of a wristwatch that secures the crystal to the dial. It can be rotating or fixed and serves various functions.

🔁 A multifunctional breakthrough

In the 1950s, watchmakers explored the bezel’s potential to add functions without enlarging the watch.
World War II accelerated the development of technical bezels.

Bezel became:

• 🐠 Crucial for diver’s watches (ISO 6425 standard)

• ✈️ A navigation tool for pilot watches (logarithmic scale, GMT, etc.)

🔄 Bezel types:

• Unidirectional ➡️ typically for divers

• Bidirectional 🔁 for military or sport purposes

📏 Most common bezel markings:

• Tachymeter 🏁 — to measure speed

• Pulsometer ❤️ — to check your pulse

• Telemeter ⚡ — to measure distance to an event (e.g., lightning)

• Diver's 🌊 — underwater time safety

• Yacht Timer ⛵ — countdown for regattas

• Logarithmic 📐 — math functions for pilots (fuel, speed, etc.)

• GMT 🌍 — tracks a second time zone

• Compass 🧭 — sun-based orientation

🛠 Using a bezel

You can:

• Track a second time zone 🌐

• Use it as a timer by aligning "0" with the minute hand ⏱

⌚ How to choose a bezel watch:

• 🎯 Know what you need it for

• 🧱 Choose material: steel, aluminum, or ceramic

• 👁 Check for readability of numerals and markers

The bezel is not just a design element — it’s a powerful, non-digital tool ⚙️💡