There are watch dials that follows trends and then there are dials that define them. The panda dial belongs firmly to the second category.
With its crisp contrast-usually a white or silver background punctuated by black sub-registers-the panda dial is instantly recognizable, effortlessly legible, and undeniably charismatic. Inspired by the clean geometry of vintage chronographs from the 1950s and 60´s, it has transcended eras, styles, and even price segments to become one of the most beloved designs in modern horology.
What makes the panda dial so special isn’t just its aesthetics—it’s its balance. Sporty yet elegant. Playful yet serious. Equally at home under a cuff or on a racing strap. From legendary icons worn by racing drivers and astronauts to contemporary reinterpretations by both independent makers and major maisons, the panda dial tells a story of precision, heritage, and timeless design.
In this post, we explore the best panda dial chronograph watches. Whether you’re searching for your first chronograph or your next grail, these panda dials deserve a place on your radar. I’m also adding the current price (January 2026).
ROLEX Cosmograph Daytona Ref. 6239 (Year 1963)
The first Panda dial
Introduced in 1963, the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona ref. 6239 is widely considered the first true panda dial. This watch was created to be worn inside the cockpit, with its high legibility at speed. What began as a functional tool watch for motorsport ultimately became one of the most desirable and influential chronographs in watchmaking.
ROLEX Cosmograph Daytona Ref. 126500LN
The modern Daytona carries the panda dial into the present today, refining the original 1963 design with contemporary proportions, a ceramic bezel, and Rolex´s in-house calibre 4131. It comes in 40 mm case size, oyster steel. CHF 15,000
ZENITH Chronomaster Revival El Primero A384
This is a reproduction of the very first watch in steel to feature El Primero high-frequency automatic chronograph calibre from 1969.
It comes it 37 mm case size, the movement is El Primero, the frequency is 36,000 VpH (5 Hz), 50 hours of power reserve and 5 ATM of water resistance.
BVLGARI Aluminium Chronograph
It has an automatic winding, chronograph, comes in 41 mm aluminium and titanium case, black rubber bezel with Bvlgari Bvlgari engraving, grey dial and black rubber bracelet. It has a water resistance of 100 m and 42 hours of power reserve. CHF 4,620
VACHERON CONSTANTIN Overseas Chronograph
Elegant and sporty, the movement is self-winding, it comes in 42.5 mm case size, power reserve of 52 hours and water resistance of 15 bar (150 m). CHF 38,900
TUDOR Black Bay Chrono
From the line Black Bay, this watch has a beautiful panda dial. The reference is M79360N-0014. The movement is from the manufacture Chronograph Calibre MT5813, it is a self-winding mechanical chronograph with bidirectional rotor system which powers Black Bay Chrono models. It comes in 41 mm case size, fixed aluminium bezel, 70 hours of power reserve and 200 m of water resistance. CHF 5,350
TAG HEUER Carrera Chronograph
Classic, stylish and sporty. This Carrera Chronograph with reference CBS2216.BA0048. It has an in-house automatic movement, it comes in 39 mm case size, 80 hours of power reserve and 100 m water resistance. CHF 7,100
LONGINES Conquest Chronograph
This chronograph comes in 42 mm, it has an in-house automatic self-winding movement, the case material is stainless steel, the bezel is made of ceramic. It has a power reserve of 59 hours approx. and 100 m of water resistance. CHF 3,600
HAMILTON American Classic Intra-Matic Auto Chrono
Did you know that Hamilton was founded in The US in 1892, originally supplying highly accurate watches to American railroads and the military? Decades later, the brand became part of the Swiss Swatch Group, bringing Swiss manufacturing and mechanical expertise to its designs. Today, Hamilton chronographs blend American spirit with Swiss precision, making them true modern tool watches. This chronograph has an in-house automatic movement, 40 mm case size, 60 hours of power reserve and 100 m water resistance. CHF 2,160
SEIKO Prosper Speedtimer Solar Chronograph
Seiko is one of my favourite brands because there is always an option for everybody. This watch pays tribute to Seiko’s 1969 chronograph heritage with a highly legible, sport-focused design. It has an in-house solar quartz movement; it converts light into energy, eliminating the need for battery changes. It has a 39 mm case size and 100 m of water resistance. CHF 710
BREITLING Premier B01 Chronograph
This watch combines classic chronograph elegance with modern Swiss engineering. Powered by the in-house calibre B01, it offers column-wheel precision and exceptional reliability. 42 mm case size, 100 m water resistance and 70 hours of power reserve.
GIRARD-PERREGAUX Laureato Chronograph 42 mm
The Laureato Chronograph elevates the sports chronograph with unmistakably high-end finishing. Its integrated bracelet and in-house movement reflect Girard-Perregaux’s deep watchmaking heritage. Sporty yet sophisticated. Its 42 mm case size features a self-winding mechanical movement operated by the calibre GP03300, has a 46-hour power reserve, and 100 m water resistance. CHF 17,800
SJÖÖ SANDSTRÖM Royal steel Chronograph
This chronograph showcases Scandinavian design with a clean, functional, and contemporary aesthetic. Crafted in Sweden and powered by a Swiss chronograph movement, it emphasizes legibility and everyday robustness. A chronograph that reflects Nordic minimalism and technical precision. Its 40 mm case size, 62 hours of power reserve, and 100 m water resistance. CHF 3,800 approx.
HANHART 415 ES Panda 39 mm
Inspired by Hanhart´s 1960´s pilot chronographs, the 415 ES revives a historic design in modern proportions. The dial panda ensures excellent legibility, staying true to its aviation roots. A vintage-driven chronograph with authentic tool-watch character. 39 mm case size, CHF 2,095
TIMEX Marlin Chronograph Tachymeter
This watch draws on mid-century American design with a playful, retro aesthetic. Its tachymeter scale and panda-style dial offer classic chronograph appeal at an accessible price point. A reminder that good design doesn’t need to be expensive. It’s 40 mm case size, quartz movement, and 50 m water resistance. CHF 200
My final thoughts
The panda dial chronograph remains one of the most timeless and versatile designs in matchmaking. Here are some options, whether you’re drawn to the design itself or actively considering adding one to your collection.
From historic icons to modern and accessible pieces, there is a panda dial for every style, budget, and purpose.
Which one did I miss? leave it on the comments.