Dialing in on the Reverse Panda

You may, or may not, have heard of a watch having a Panda dial. If not, these are watches, specifically chronographs, that have white dials with black sub dials, making it look like a Panda Bear's face. A couple popular chronographs you might have seen before are the Rolex Daytona or an Omega Speedmaster. The Panda dials were a big hit between the 60s and 70s, and like anything great, they have regained popularity and become a collector's watch.

Of course, over time, Panda dials have been updated, introducing what some might say are more popular, the reverse Panda dial. 

Reverse Pandas are chronographs that have a black dial with white sub dials. Watches with these dials are popular because the contrast of the black and white make them easy to read and aesthetically pleasing to look at. We are going to look at some of our favorite watches that have a reverse Panda dial. 

Rolex Daytona Ref 6262

Here at Everest, we are obsessed with all things Rolex, so it is no surprise that a vintage Daytona is our favorite Reverse Panda model. This Daytona model was only produced for one year in 1970 and in very small quantities. This model was available in a steel case with a panda dial or a reverse panda dial. There were also very few models that were made with an 18k gold case, but the dial of that model was a champagne color. What makes this model more rare is that it is more bulky than other models because the Rolex Oyster case was not used with this model. This model was discontinued very quickly, as it was not popular when it was first produced. But, fast forward to today, and it is a rare valuable model. 

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Chronograph Steel

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Chronographs were first released in 1997 with a 39mm case. Typically, these chronographs had monochromatic dials. It was not until 2017, on the 20th anniversary of these Chronographs, that models with two-tone dials were introduced. In that lineup was the reverse panda dial with a steel case. This model features a 41mm size case. The black grande tapisserie dial with the silver markers, hands and sub dials make for a beautiful reverse panda dial. 

Omega Speedmaster Racing Co-Axial Chronograph 

Image from omegawatches.com

The Omega Speedmaster Racing watches have been around for many years. In fact, they celebrated their 60th anniversary for the collection in 2017. It is no surprise that there is a reverse panda dial in the collection after being around for so long. The Speedmaster features textured sub dials that add to the overall look of the reverse panda dial, really catching one's eye. What also stands out in this model is the black bezel, which creates even more contrast with the white sub dials and silver hands. This model is very sleek and polished; no wonder it is one of our favorites. 

These chronographs with reverse panda dials are a show stopper. There is no question as to why these have become so popular in the watch world. Do you prefer the Panda or reverse Panda dial? Comment below and thank you for reading!