15 BEST Sunburst Dial Watches (The “Headturner” Collection)

Out of all the watch dial types, one of the most distinctive options tends to be sunburst dial watches. These timepieces are capable of reflecting light in distinctive ways, capturing attention while portraying sophistication and retaining a classic appeal.

That said, the way these watches are made often means the price tags will be greater than some other dial types. It’s important to know what the best sunburst dial watches are so you can make the correct investment and get the best quality timepiece that will retain or grow in value over the years.

What Makes Sunburst Watches Unique?

The term sunburst, or sunray, in the watch world refers to a type of dial with thin brushed looking lines that emanate from a center point and move outwards. Typically, these lines will appear from the center of the dial but sometimes emanate from an auxiliary dial or another off-center focal point.

Sunburst watches are a staple of the watchmaking industry, well-liked among both enthusiasts and regular consumers for their simple yet refined appearance. Most watch manufacturers produce sunburst watches but some of the most popular brands for these watch types include Rolex, OMEGA, Seiko, Glashütte, and the like.

Texture

The key with sunburst watch dials is that the effects come from the texture, rather than being painted on or through other means. This creates a unique-looking watch dial with tiny lines that catch the light and reflect in different ways.

Various watch manufacturers handle these lines in different ways, with some models having much more noticeable textures than others. However, the key with all sunburst watches is that the texture is the important factor and what creates the unique light play coveted with these types of watches.

Colors

One thing to look out for with sunburst watches is the color of the dial. It’s quite common for sunburst watches to come with darker-colored dials as these often contrast well when light hits the textured lines. 

Perhaps the most common color is blue in various shades, with one of the most popular examples being the Rolex Submariner Date Oyster in royal blue. Other popular colors for sunburst watches include green, cherry, and champagne. 

If you’re looking for a sunburst dial watch that will work well for all occasions, dark blue dials can be a great choice. These work well in both casual and professional settings and are easy to match with a range of clothing options.

15 Best Sunburst Dial Watches

As noted previously, most watch manufacturers will have a few different models that you can buy with sunburst or sunray dials. However, only a handful of manufacturers do this particularly well. 

To help you cut through the noise, here are the fifteen best sunburst dial watches. Each has been selected based both on the aesthetics of the design but also on the strength and reliability of the brand. So, you can rest assured you’re investing in a timepiece that will look good and hold up well.

1. OMEGA Constellation Gold Blue Dial

From the start, I’ll say I have a predilection toward OMEGA watches. As a James Bond fanatic, I think the switch to the OMEGA Seamaster in Goldeneye from the traditional Rolex Submariner brought some much-needed variety to the watches of the franchise.

With that said, the OMEGA Constellation is a sure pleaser for almost any watch enthusiast, whether you’re a fan of OMEGA watches or not. 

The off-center sunburst radiating from the gold star is at the center of what makes this watch stand out. Add to that the refined look of OMEGA’s Sedna gold against the polished blue of the bezel which creates an overall polished timepiece perfect for both the boardroom and more leisurely activities.

On the backside, you have a clear view of the OMEGA Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 8900, which drives the watch and further adds to the sophistication of the timepiece. All of this together places the OMEGA Constellation Gold Blue Dial at the top of the list of best sunburst dial watches.

• Case Size: 41mm
• Case Material: Steel and Sedna Gold
• Bracelet Material: Leather
• Dial Window: Sapphire
• Display: Blue Sunburst
• Movement: Omega Caliber 8901
• Water Resistance: 100m
• Reference: 131.23.41.21.03.001
• Price: Around $9,000

Check Out The OMEGA Constellation

2. Glashütte Original SeaQ Panorama Date Steel and Gold (Black Dial Version)

Second in line for the title is the Glashütte Original SeaQ Panorama. Those familiar with the Glashütte Original, pronounced as Glasshoota, already know the company has a long tradition of exceptional craftsmanship and fine German engineering.

The SeaQ Panorama Date is a true demonstration of this high level of craftsmanship. Utilizing the smooth and refined Caliber 36-13 movement, the SeaQ Panorama Date is guaranteed to keep perfect time and withstand the most demanding of uses.

For the aesthetics of the watch, I find the galvanic black dial with a sunburst finish well contrasted with the gold indices and hands to be highly pleasing. Everything about the watch adds to the polished and unique appearance, from the domed sapphire crystal on both the front and back to the original Glashütte GG logo at the end of the sweep hand.

Further, the SeaQ Panorama Date isn’t a dive watch in name only. The timepiece is rated at 300 meters and complies with German DIN8306 standards. So, if you’re after a sunburst dial watch that is functional and aesthetically pleasing, the Glashütte Original SeaQ Panorama Date is the right choice.

• Case Size: 43.20mm
• Case Material: Red Gold and Stainless Steel
• Bracelet Material: Fabric
• Dial Window: Sapphire
• Display: Grey Sunburst
• Movement: Glashütte Original caliber 36-13
• Water Resistance: 300m
• Reference: 1-36-13-04-91-34
• Price: Around $15,000

Check Out The Glashütte Original SeaQ Panorama

3. Seiko Prospex Speedtimer Solar Chronograph SSC909

Along with OMEGA watches, I have a bias for Seiko timepieces which I picked up from my father. For that reason, rounding out the number three position for the best sunburst dial watches is the Seiko Prospex Speedtimer Solar Chronograph SSC909.

This is one of the most distinctive watches on this list, with a limited run of 10,000 and a highly original appearance. What immediately stands out is the sky-blue colored dial with a sunray finish which catches the light in some of the most unique ways.

Further adding to the aesthetics is the stainless steel bracelet with brushed black steel going down the center, invoking images of car racing stripes. The three auxiliary dials and date window help add to the sporty look of the watch and help to round out the overall appearance.

• Case Size: 45.50mm
• Case Material: Stainless Steel
• Bracelet Material: Stainless Steel
• Dial Window: Sapphire
• Display: Sky Blue Sunburst
• Movement: Solar, Caliber V192
• Water Resistance: 100m
• Reference: SSC909
• Price: Around $700

Check Out The Seiko Prospex Speedtimer Solar Chronograph

4. OMEGA Seamaster Aqua Terra 150m Green Dial

Another top-notch OMEGA timepiece is the Seamaster, popularised first by Pierce Brosnan and then by Daniel Craig in the James Bond films.

The Aqua Terra is a commanding yet subtle variation of the Seamaster line of timepieces. It stands out for both the moss green dial color and the simplicity of the overall design. As with the OMEGA Constellation, the sunburst extends from an off-center position in contrast to many watches.

One thing to note is the watch lacks a rotating bezel which makes it unsuitable as a functional dive watch. That said, it is waterproof up to 150m ensuring it holds up to the reputation for durability set by other watches in the Seamaster line.

With the Aqua Terra, you get the Mechanical Automatic, Caliber Omega 8802 movement which can be seen through the sapphire crystal on the backend of the watch. If you’re looking for a professional sunburst watch that differs from the traditional blue dials, the Aqua Terra is a solid choice.

• Case Size: 38mm
• Case Material: Stainless Steel
• Bracelet Material: Stainless Steel
• Dial Window: Sapphire
• Display: Green Sunburst
• Movement: Mechanical Automatic, Caliber Omega 8802
• Water Resistance: 150m
• Reference: 220.10.38.20.10.001
• Price: Around $6,000

Check Out The OMEGA Seamaster Aqua Terra

5. Oris Aquis 41mm Cherry Dial

Compared to Rolex and OMEGA, Oris doesn’t have the same level of brand recognition. However, that’s no reason to discount the fine level of craftsmanship honed over their 100-year history.

That craftsmanship is on full display with the Oris Aquis. From the start, the cherry color of the dial is highly unique and different from any other watch on this list. The sunburst radiates from the center but comes in a bit understated when compared to watches like the OMEGA Constellation.

The watch movement is the mechanical automatic Caliber 733, which ensures 38 hours of reserve power. Both the case and bracelet are stainless steel, with a darker steel-colored bezel. 

If you’re looking for something functional that can be used on dives, the bezel on the Oris Aquis rotates and the watch is rated to a depth of 300 meters. While the cherry color of the dial may not appeal to everyone, the Aquis stands out as a good choice for fashion-forward watch lovers.

• Case Size: 41.5mm
• Case Material: Stainless Steel
• Bracelet Material: Stainless Steel
• Dial Window: Sapphire
• Display: Cherry Sunburst
• Movement: Mechanical Automatic, Caliber 733, 38 hours power reserve
• Water Resistance: 300m
• Reference: 01 733 7766 4158-07 8 22 05PEB
• Price: Around $2,000

Check Out The Oris Aquis

6. Rolex Oyster Perpetual 41mm

For watch enthusiasts, the Rolex Oyster needs no introduction. Launched in 1926 as the world’s first waterproof watch, the famed timepiece has become a staple in the collections of serious watch collectors worldwide.

If you’re looking for a sunburst dial watch that will look good in both professional and leisurely settings, you can’t go wrong with the Oyster Perpetual 41. From the jump, the brilliant silver of the dial contrasts flawlessly with the gold-colored indices and the stainless steel bracelet.

The sunburst of the dial only helps to enhance the silver coloring of the dial, capturing light in interesting ways. As with other Rolex watches, small details such as the logo for the 12 index and on the crown help add to the overall polished look.

For the movement, the Oyster Perpetual 41 comes with the updated caliber 3230 which was first introduced in 2020. The movement is both capable and precise, with advancements in everything from the power reserve to shock resistance.

• Case Size: 41mm
• Case Material: Stainless Steel
• Bracelet Material: Stainless Steel
• Dial Window: Sapphire
• Display: Silver Sunburst
• Movement: Mechanical Automatic
• Water Resistance: 100m
• Reference: 124300-0001
• Price: Around $10,000

Check Out The Rolex Oyster Perpetual

7. Hublot Spirit of Big Bang 39mm Gold Blue Dial

No list of best sunburst dial watches would be complete without a nod to one of the best-known luxury brands, Hublot. The Spirit of Big Bang represents some of the best qualities of Hublot timepieces, with everything from precision craftsmanship to flashy yet sophisticated design choices.

The watch is different from others on this list, with a tonneau-shaped case made from 18k red gold with fifty diamonds encrusted around the bezel. For an even more distinctive appearance, Hublot chose an exhibition backside for the case, showcasing the HUB1710 automatic movement.

For the strap, blue rubber and alligator leather were selected to compliment the blue dial and round out the elegant appearance of the watch. Further details which add to the elegance of this timepiece include the Hublot logo at the base of the sweep hand and on the crown.

If you’re looking for a lady’s sunburst dial watch that is a sure showstopper, the Hublot Spirit of Big Bank 39 is hard to top.

• Case Size: 39mm
• Case Material: 18k Red Gold and Diamond Bezel
• Bracelet Material: Leather 
• Dial Window: Sapphire
• Display: Blue Sunburst
• Movement: Mechanical Automatic
• Water Resistance: 100m
• Reference: 665.OX.7180.LR.1204
• Price: Around $30,000

Check Out The Hublot Spirit of Big Bang

8. Zodiac Super Sea Wolf ZO9269

Zodiac is another brand that gets less attention on many lists but one that is equally deserving of recognition for quality parts and precision craftsmanship. Founded in 1882 in Switzerland, the brand was later purchased by the American-based Fossil Group, though manufacturing remains in Bienne, Switzerland.

The Super Sea Wolf is the brand’s primary claim to fame and gets extra marks from me for being an actual dive watch. One issue I’ve found as a scuba diver is that many modern dive watches aren’t made with functionality in mind and rely too much on aesthetics. With the Super Sea Wolf, you get both.

Immediately what stands out is the thick light green bezel, making it easier to see underwater. As with other Super Sea Wolf watches, the crown and case are thicker than you would find with similar watches, making it easier to handle underwater and with dive gloves.

The movement for the Super Sea Wolf ZO926 is automatic and, together with the silver sunburst dial, everything comes together nicely to create a rugged and aesthetic dive watch.

• Case Size: 40mm
• Case Material: Stainless Steel
• Bracelet Material: Stainless Steel
• Dial Window: Sapphire
• Display: Silver Sunburst
• Movement: Mechanical Automatic
• Water Resistance: 200m
• Reference: ZO9269
• Price: Around $1,500

Check Out The Zodiac Super Sea Wolf

9. Longines Spirit Zulu Time Blue Dial

The Longines Spirit Zulu Time Blue Dial is one of my favorite mid-market sunburst dial watches. I’m a fan of the specific shade of blue that Longines chose for the timepiece. While it reflects light well, the dial is subdued enough to wear both in personal and professional settings.

One thing to note about the Spirit Zulu Time is the watch is capable of managing multiple time zones. Other features of the watch include a chronometer and date window above the six position. The leather strap comes with an extendable folding clasp unique to Longines watches that makes adjusting the strap quicker.

The watch movement is the caliber L844.4 automatic GMT movement which boasts an impressive 72-hour power reserve. Among other benefits, the movement comes with a silicon balance which provides additional anti-magnetism protection and ensures a high accuracy rating.

• Case Size: 42mm
• Case Material: Stainless Steel and Ceramic Bezel 
• Bracelet Material: Blue Leather
• Dial Window: Sapphire w/ Anti-Reflective Coating
• Display: Dark Blue Sunburst
• Movement: Automatic Caliber L844
• Water Resistance: 100m
• Reference: L3.812.4.93.2
• Price: Around $3,000

Check Out The Longines Spirit Zulu Time

10. Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Steel

Founded in 1735, Blancpain is the world’s oldest watch manufacturer and has set the standard for fine Swiss timepieces. The Fifty Fathoms line of dive watches, first launched in 1953 is one of their greatest achievements and is widely recognized as one of the first modern dive watches.

This is one of my favorite watches owing both to its aesthetic appeal and how much it has revolutionized dive watches. With the Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe, you’re getting a highly functional dive watch with a water resistance rating of 300m (984ft) made from corrosive-resistant materials.

The case for the Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe is stainless steel with a water-resistant sail-canvas watch strap. One of the things I like about this timepiece is the meteor gray sunburst dial color, which makes this watch distinctive from many others.

There is a date window between the fourth and fifth index along with some features that are helpful for divers including an oversized crown and a large 43mm case. If you’re looking for a highly-functional dive watch with strong aesthetic appeal, I’d start with the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms.

• Case Size: 43mm
• Case Material: Satin-Brushed Steel
• Bracelet Material: Sail-Canvas
• Dial Window: Sapphire
• Display: Meteor Grey Sunburst
• Movement: Automatic Self-Winding
• Water Resistance: 300m
• Reference: 5000-1110-K52A
• Price: Around $11,000

Check Out The Blancpain Fifty Fathoms

11. Hublot Big Bang Steel Blue Diamonds

Despite taking the number eleven spot, the Hublot Big Bang is a stunning example of fine craftsmanship and one of the best-known watches in the world for reason. I remember the first time seeing the Big Bang Boa at the Central Embassy Hublot store in Bangkok and being mesmerized.

Another in the Big Bang line, the Steel Blue Diamonds, is the perfect choice if you’re looking for a Hublot with a sunburst finish. While the Big Bang Steel Blue Diamond isn’t quite as bold as the Boa version, the blue satin dial with 36 diamonds surrounding the bezel won’t fail to garner attention.

The movement for the Hublot Big Bang Steel Blue Diamonds is the HUB4300 self-winding chronograph movement. As with other Hublot watches, the HUB4300 movement provides a solid power reserve of 42 hours and comes with enhanced anti-shock and anti-magnetism protection.

One final aspect of the watch that I like is the blue alligator watch strap, similar to that of the Spirit of Big Bang listed above. While the almost $17,000 price tag puts it at the higher end, the Big Bang Steel Blue Diamond in my opinion represents the best of what Hublot has to offer.

• Case Size: 41mm
• Case Material: Stainless Steel and Diamond Bezel
• Bracelet Material: Blue Rubber and Alligator Leather
• Dial Window: Sapphire
• Display: Blue Sunburst
• Movement: HUB4300 Self-winding Chronograph Movement
• Water Resistance: 100m
• Reference: 341.SX.7170.LR.1204
• Price: Around $18,000

Check Out the Hublot Big Bang Steel Blue Diamond

12. Maurice Lacroix Eliros Chronograph Dark Blue Dial

This is one of my favorite mid-market watches due to the simplicity of the design and distinctive stainless steel mesh watch band. I’m also a fan of the dark blue dial color and understated sunburst finish.

Some of the features of the Maurice Lacroix Eliros include a chronograph (counting seconds, half-hour, and 1/10 seconds), water resistance up to 50m (164ft), and a date window between the four and five indices.

One specific feature I like about the Eliros Chronograph is the easy strap exchange system. This system allows you to swap out straps and bracelets based on your preference without the need for specialized tools or a visit to the local horologist.

The movement for the Maurice Lacroix Eliros is quartz, differing from most of the other watches on this list which have mechanical movements. Overall, the Maurice Lacroix Eliros Chronograph is a solid choice if you are looking for an introductory mid-market sunburst dial watch good for all occasions.

• Case Size: 40mm
• Case Material: Stainless Steel
• Bracelet Material: Stainless Steel
• Dial Window: Sapphire
• Display: Dark Blue Sunburst
• Movement: Quartz
• Water Resistance: 50m
• Reference: EL1098-SS006-420-1
• Price: Around $1,000

Check Out The Maurice Lacroix Eliros Chronograph

13. Laurent Ferrier Square Micro-Rotor Sunburst Gold-Toned Dial

Another of my favorite gold-dial sunburst dial watches is the Laurent Ferrier Square Micro-Roto with the gold-toned dial. This is a highly distinctive watch not only for the brilliant gold sunburst finish that radiates light but also for the 18k white gold drop-shaped indices. 

From the start, I should note that this is one of the most expensive watches on this list and highly indicative of the fine quality craftsmanship you can expect from Laurent Ferrier. Coming in at around $50,000, the Square Micro-Rotor Sunburst Gold-Toned Dial is solidly in the luxury watch category.

The movement of the Laurent Ferrier Square Micro-Rotor is the automatic winding caliber FBN 229.01. On the back side of the case is a sapphire crystal allowing a perfect view of all 180 components that make up the movement.

One final detail to note is the larger 41mm cushion-shaped case. The choice was made to deviate from the traditional circular-shaped case of the Classic Origin to create a bolder presence. Combined with the Barbialla calf watch strap, the Laurent Ferrier Square Micro-Rotor is a true representation of precision Swiss watch manufacturing.

• Case Size: 41mm
• Case Material: Stainless Steel
• Bracelet Material: Barbialla Calf Leather
• Dial Window: Sapphire
• Display: Gold Sunburst
• Movement: Mechanical Automatic Winding
• Water Resistance: 30m
• Reference: LC013.AC.JG1
• Price: Around $52,000

Check Out The Laurent Ferrier Square Micro-Rotor

14. MeisterSinger No 01 Sunburst Blue

The MeisterSinger No 01 Sunburst Blue, despite being in the number fourteen spot, is one of my favorite mid-market watches for its simple aesthetics and basic design. This is a perfect watch for people who don’t want extra features such as you would find on a chronograph or dive watch.

One of the first things that stand out is the brilliant blue of the dial, closer to a midnight blue than the traditional royal blue found on many classic sunburst watches. 

Another interesting design choice is the single hour hand and the absence of a minute hand or sweeping second hand. Instead, there are 144 notches around the watch representing five-minute increments. 

The gray suede leather strap further adds to the aesthetics of the timepiece along with the domed sapphire crystal. I think this is a solid timepiece if you’re looking for a balance between simplicity and stylishness at a lower price

• Case Size: 43mm
• Case Material: Steel
• Bracelet Material: Leather
• Dial Window: Sapphire
• Display: Dark Blue Sunburst
• Movement: Sellita SW 210 Hand Wound
• Water Resistance: 50m
• Reference: AM3308
• Price: Around $1,700

Check Out The MeisterSinger No01

15. Ressence Type 1 Squared Night Blue

Ressence is one of the more unique watch brands I’ve come across and the newest on this list. The company was founded in 2010 in Antwerp, Belgium, and quickly made a name for itself owing to aesthetics and function.

From the start, the watch has a modern look that many mid-market and higher-end luxury pieces seem to abstain from in favor of more classical looks. The dial is a blue color with an understated sunburst finish. Three auxiliary dials are present which rotate around the center of the dial when setting the date and time.

One of the most unique features of the watch is how you adjust it. In place of the traditional crown is a lever on the case back which turns both clockwise and counterclockwise. The case is made from Grade 5 Titanium with a satin finish, providing even further character to the timepiece.

While my personal preferences lean more toward the classic looks of watches like the Omega Seamaster and Rolex Oyster, the Ressence Type 1 is a good choice if you want a highly functional and unique timepiece and don’t mind springing for a luxury price tag.

• Case Size: 41mm
• Case Material: Grade 5 Titanium
• Bracelet Material: Blue Cordovan
• Dial Window: Sapphire
• Display: Night Blue Sunburst
• Movement: Patented ROCS 1.3 – Ressence Orbital Convex System
• Water Resistance: 10m
• Reference: T12N
• Price: Around $21,000

Check Out The Ressence Type 1 Squared