Author: Alan Dang

Every watch has a movement inside of it that breathes life into it. Some watches are operated with a battery, allowing for simple maintenance and high accuracy. Other watches are purely mechanical, with many moving parts working together to generate power.

Swiss manufacturing has a long history of making mechanical movements, and there was a time when nearly every single watch was mechanical. Now, consumers have the luxury of choosing from a variety of movements, usually boiling down to quartz or mechanical. 

Creating a movement entirely from scratch can be a huge challenge for some brands. This also comes with an increase in associated costs. Luckily, ETA SA has been a driving force in the Swiss watchmaking industry for a long time, providing high-quality and reliable movements that have powered countless watches since the brand’s debut in 1856.

One of the many great ETA movements is the 2892, a truly wonderful movement that balances luxury with cost. Today, we’re here to show you a sample of the many watches that house an ETA 2892 inside.

About the ETA 2892

Many watch companies use movements created by ETA in their watches. By doing so, they are also allowed to print the coveted “Swiss Made” label. The ETA 2892 is an automatic movement created in the workshops of  ETA SA.

ETA has gone to great lengths to ensure that all of its movements are worthy of the “Swiss Made” label. Because of its huge sway in the watch industry, ETA needs to make a quality product that supports its position in the market. Luckily, the 2892 is a truly fantastic work of mechanical art that lives up to its reputation. 

First, let’s go over all of the technical features of the movement. The ETA 2892 is a 21-jewel automatic movement that is relatively thin at 25.60mm and has a height of 3.6mm. Each movement is strong enough to generate an ample 42-hour power reserve.

The movement beats at 28,000 vibrations per hour and features hacking seconds and hand-winding. The accuracy ranges anywhere from +/-20 seconds per day to +/-5 seconds/day. This range depends on the grade or quality of the movement. The three grades are: elaborated grade, top grade, and chronometer (COSC) grade. Next, let’s talk history!

History of the ETA 2892

Some people might have heard about the Swiss brand Eterna. Eterna is a storied brand with rich history, and its most significant achievement is probably the creation of ETA SA. Eterna was founded in November 1856 by Dr. Joseph Girard and Urs Schild. 

They were one of the original movement manufacturers and continued to do so all the way until the company legally separated into Eterna and ETA SA. Eterna mainly focused on making watches, while ETA SA focused on movements.

The mighty Swatch Group now controls ETA SA, so it’s no wonder that ETA movements can be found in many of their brands. ETA movements are a gold standard in the watch world and are a “go-to” movement, especially when costs are concerned.

The Best ETA 2892 Watches

ETA movements are amazing right off the shelf. Of course, brands can take their time to beautify and personalize the movement, but the core features remain the same. We mentioned different grades before. Don’t worry; there’s no test for you today! 

Instead, these grades simply determine how rigorously the movement was tested before being used in the watch. Below are 15 examples of quality timepieces that will delight any future buyer. We’ll provide the description; all you need to do is imagine the amazing features of the watch!

1. Omega Seamaster Diver 300M (ref. 212.30.41.20.01.002, Caliber 2500, based on the 2892-A2)

 

First on the list is an offering from the much-loved brand Omega. The Omega Seamaster Diver just oozes cool, and variations of this watch have been made famous by the James Bond movies. For example, the helium escape valve on the top left corner is actually used by Bond in the movies to operate some of his numerous gadgets. This model features a very cool ink-black dial with a wave pattern that decorates newer models in the Seamaster line. 

All of the watches on the list modify the ETA 2892 in some way. Whether that’s giving it a custom rotor or tweaking some of the specifications, each brand ultimately uses the ETA 2892 as a blueprint for its own designs. In this dive watch, Omega added their unique co-axial escapement, which increases accuracy over time. This is just one modification possible to the ETA 2892.  

2. Breitling SuperOcean Heritage ‘57 (ref. A10370121B1A1, Breitling Caliber B10, based on the 2892-A2)

Breitling is next on the list, a favorite of aviators and divers alike. The famous Breitling Navitimer rules the skies, while the Superocean rules the seas below. The SuperOcean Heritage is a reference to the golden age of diving when many brands were competing to create the best dive watch.

While many of these dive watches were bulky and large, this SuperOcean Heritage model is somewhat modest. The watch is 38mm in diameter with an extra large bezel that curves inward, giving it a unique appearance. 

The ETA 2892 helps to make this watch relatively thin, especially surprising given Breitling’s usually bold and thick watches. The bracelet and case almost seamlessly turn into each other, making this watch slender and very comfortable to wear. Of course, one of the most interesting things about the watch is the bezel that curves inward, which gives the watch a fascinating 3D effect.

3. IWC Spitfire (ref. IW3268-01, Caliber 32110, based on the 2892-A2)

IWC takes to the skies with the Spitfire model, featuring the Caliber 32110. In this movement, IWC uses silicon to bolster the movement’s strength. Silicon is used in watches because of its strength and flexibility. The escape wheel and pallet lever are made of this material, a very nice change because it improves the longevity of the pieces and allows the watch to go long periods without needing service. 

The Spitfire is a classic aviation-inspired watch. Aviation watches emphasize legibility above all else. And with a large, bold number printing, clearly delineated minute tracker, and large sword hands, you’ll have no trouble reading the time, even in the most intense situations. 

4. Hublot Classic Fusion 45 Chronograph Black Magic (ref. 521.CM.1771.RX, Hublot caliber HUB1143, based on the 2892-A2)

Wearing a Hublot means you’re not afraid of what anyone thinks. Hublot has built a reputation for its unapologetically bold timepieces. They immediately grab your attention and aren’t shy about it. This 45mm chronograph is no exception, and the outlandish name matches its aesthetic.

The ceramic case is extremely well-made and scratch-resistant. The futuristic black color coats every part of the watch. The bracelet is equally amazing, all ceramic and brushed and polished to a bright shine. The caseback is transparent, which shows off the HUB1143 behind the window.

Hublot modifies the baseline ETA 2892 with an integrated Dubois-Depraz module that powers the chronograph function. This module is an excellent feature and modification to the always-reliable ETA 2892. The module is added to the base movement to handle whatever additional feature the brand wants to add. 

5. TAG Heuer Autavia GMT (ref. WBE511A.BA0650, Calibre 7, based on the 2892-A2)

The Autavia line from Tag Heuer features many vintage-inspired models that take design cues from successful past models from Tag’s history. This model is a very handsome pilot’s watch that is effortlessly cool. It does all this while having a GMT feature, one of the most practical complications a watch can have.

As a pilot watch, the dial is extremely clean and legible. The printing is bold, large, and generously filled with lume for low-light conditions. 

This is a COSC-certified chronometer and pushes the ETA 2892 to its limit. COSC certification means that the watch has been tested in extreme conditions to ensure that it remains accurate. Any movement that doesn’t survive the process isn’t used for future watches. This is a mark of quality; anyone would be delighted to see this vintage-inspired beauty on their wrist. 

6. Longines Hydroconquest (ref. L3.695.4.53.6, Caliber L619.2, based on the 2892-A2)

With an intimidating name like Hydroconquest, I expect a watch that can conquer the seas and survive anything Mother Nature can throw at it. Longines certainly tries to live up to that expectation with this next offering on our list, a large 44mm stainless steel watch. 

This is a titan of diving, with 300m of water resistance and an expertly engineered case that shields the ETA-based Caliber L619.2. One of my favorite details on the watch is the heavily engraved caseback featuring the winged Longines logo. 

7. Panerai Luminor 1950 (ref. PAM01109, Panerai caliber P.9200, based on the 2892-2)

It’s definitely easy to spot a Panerai on someone’s wrist. The unique case shape and large 47mm case are unmistakable. This model is a little different from other Panerai models because it includes a chronograph function that takes up a majority of the dial. However, the large 12 and 6 hour markers are still present, which is a signature of many Panerai models. 

Inside this Italian classic is Panerai’s version of the ETA 2892, the Caliber P.9200. Panerai adds extra features like an improved balance wheel and increased shock-resistance to really make this watch true to its rich history and association with tough, military watches. 

8. Tudor Heritage Chrono 70330N (ETA Caliber 2892-2054)

Tudor is simply an amazing brand that offers top-quality pieces at unmatched prices. I love the Tudor shield logo because I know I am getting something incredible with this sign of quality. This timepiece is a colorful chronograph with racing-inspired design cues.

The Tudor shield is at 12 o’clock and seamlessly flows with the other hour markers. The chronograph subdials are filled in with a slightly darker color than the dial, giving an interesting contrast between them. 

Tudor added a separate chronograph module to the base ETA 2892. The Dubois-Depraz 2054 is a marvelous addition that really unlocks the capabilities of the base movement. The watch is heavy and thick, so it may take some time to get used to the extra weight on the wrist, but in the price-value category, this modern interpretation of a vintage watch is hard to beat.

9. Oris Divers GMT (ref. 01 668 7639 8454-07 8 24 01PEB, Oris 668, based on the 2892-A2)

As one of the few remaining independent watch brands, Oris holds a unique position in the market. Many of the brands on this list, like Omega and Longines, fall under the umbrella of the Swatch Group. Oris, however, is owned entirely by themselves.

The Oris Divers line is a series of no-nonsense models inspired by watches from the 1960s. This model also includes the popular GMT feature and combines practicality with luxury. Regarding the movement, Oris has been making waves with its movement work.

They even have their own in-house movement that they developed for their premium models. For this Oris 668, extra fine-tuning has made this movement even more accurate and reliable. The true GMT feature works amazingly when combined with the reliability of the base movement. 

10. TAG Heuer Carrera Big Date (ref. WAR5010.BA0723, Calibre 8, based on the 2892-A2) 

Like its namesake, the Carrera Big Date is as exquisite as any luxury sports car. Despite its seemingly wearable size, with a case diameter of 41mm, the watch wears bigger due to its large thickness and lug-to-lug distance. The black dial is gorgeous and features the Big Date complication at 12 o’clock, along with a subdial at 6 o’clock that keeps track of the second time zone.

The watch is powered by the Calibre 8, which is a modified ETA 2892 with an additional GMT function. Combined with the Big Date complication, it makes for an excellent everyday timepiece, especially for those interested in tracking two different time zones.

11. Omega Speedmaster Reduced (ref. 3510.50.00, Omega Caliber 3220, based on the 2892-A2)

While the Speedmaster Reduced is certainly smaller than its regular-sized counterpart, this does not compromise the quality. The Speedmaster Reduced is a smaller 38mm version of the legendary Moonwatch.

The dial has several small but noticeable differences compared to its big brother, like the location of the subdials. The subdials are also stretched to the outer edge of the watch. One of the biggest differences, which truly makes it reduced, is the lug-to-lug width and bracelet.

The Reduced is 44mm lug to lug, down from the normal 47mm of the Moonwatch. This makes it much easier to style with numerous wrist sizes. The bracelet is also slightly thinner at 18mm and tapers to a fine steel finish. Inside the Reduced is the Caliber 3220, Omega’s version of the ETA 2892.

It is automatic compared to the traditionally hand-winding Moonwatch movement. The chronograph function between the Reduced and Moonwatch is mostly because the Reduced chronograph is a module stacked on top of the movement, which changes the dynamics of the watch.

12. Breitling for Bentley Motors Blue (ref. A2536212.C618, Breitling Caliber 25B, based on the 2892-A2)

Breitling and Bentley have collaborated for a long time together to create amazing moto-inspired watches. Every Breitling for Bentley collection watch has a distinctive look, especially with the braided bezel design. 

This watch is quintessential Breitling. It’s a big 48mm watch with the famous Breitling wings logo, a Breitling-tipped chronograph hand, and a ton of information on the dial. The pushers to the side almost seem dwarfed by the large, adventurous watch. The ETA 2892 base movement is wonderfully decorated with Breitling design language and features a 30-second seconds counter as well.

13. IWC Mark XX (ref. IW3282-02, Caliber 32111, based on the 2892-A2)

IWC takes to the skies again with this excellent timepiece. Perfectly sized at 40mm and with the pilot-styled DNA everyone loves, the Mark XX is a surefire hit to everyone who can look at one. Even the name invokes the image of Iron Man, who is known to soar through the skies. 

IWC is a master of aviation watches. Just look at the numerous models in their extensive lineup. The Caliber 32111 is hidden behind the caseback and finished with intricately detailed Côtes de Genève patterns.

14. Longines Legend Diver (ref. L3.774.4.90.2, Caliber L888.5, based on the 2892-A2)

The Legend Diver is a look back at the past and transports you to a time when diving was still a brand new world to explore. As a modern interpretation, the Legend Diver is packed with modern conveniences, like an updated 42mm case size, sapphire crystal, improved inner rotating bezel, rugged stainless steel construction, and of course, enhanced modern movement. 

Underneath this surprisingly thin case is the Caliber L888.5, featuring an extra durable silicone balance wheel. Anyone who gets their hand on this collector’s item is sure to be amazed by just how handsome the whole package looks.

15. Oris Artelier Small Second Date (ref. 01 623 7582 4074-07 5 21 71FC, Oris 623, based on the 2892-A2)

Last but not least is the elegant Oris Artelier Small Seconds Date. The word “Artelier” brings up nostalgic images of old-school watchmaking in small, private workshops. Indeed, this model is carefully finished and shined to perfection. The hour markers are sharp like daggers and are polished to a mirror finish. 

The hands, too, look sharp and crisp. The dial is layered with two circles on top of each other, with the small seconds sub dial prominently featured at the 6 o’clock position. I love how the shiny shades of black look stacked on top of each other.

The date window is like a hidden surprise at the bottom as well, like a little window that provides extremely useful information to viewers. Of course, Oris’s skill at making movements is on display here with the excellent Oris 623.

The flash of red on the movement, as seen through the transparent caseback, is a welcome surprise. The many features of this movement, like the extra precise time accuracy and stop-second, make this an excellent and elegant timepiece.

Conclusion

As you can now see, the ETA 2892 can take many forms. Brands take this wonderful movement and decorate it to their liking. Sometimes they can add extra features to it, like a chronograph movement. Other times, they can innovate the materials used inside of it or customize how the rotor looks. Regardless of the changes, the same amazing, high-quality Swiss mechanical movement beats at the heart of every one of these watches! 

Watches can come in a wonderful kaleidoscope of different colors. Picture this: an endless sea of magnificent blues, intense reds, vibrant greens, brilliant yellows, and more. However, for those interested in stepping away from these colors and choosing a warmer, earthy hue, brown is the name of the game. 

Brown is the color of chocolate and coffee, a match truly made in heaven. Imagine the enticing smell of freshly baked, gooey chocolate chip cookies from the oven with a steaming cup of espresso. Dream about fluffy cinnamon buns, or experience the rugged, earthy smells of the wooded forest. 

Brown watches are not really the first thing that comes to mind when picking out another watch to add to the collection. You can never go wrong with a classic black or blue dial. However, brown watches are on the rise, and it’s becoming increasingly common to see brands offering their pieces with sun-kissed brown dials. Pour yourself a cup of your favorite hot chocolate as we learn more about brown dial watches and the joy they can bring.

About Brown Dial Watches

The history of brown dial watches starts way back with vintage sports watches. Think of beloved brands like Rolex and Omega. As the years passed and watches were exposed to sunlight, the dials started discoloring. The chemical reaction between the sunlight and dial eventually resulted in what we call a “tropical dial.”

Presumably named for the tropics, where sunlight is abundant, these chocolate-colored dials are now highly prized by enthusiasts and collectors alike. The attractive patina on the watch greatly increases its value and adds a sprinkle of uniqueness. 

Many watches nowadays will try to evoke memories of these charming timepieces with carefully painted dials and vintage-inspired looks. Indeed, brown dials are becoming more and more desirable, as we will see with the luxurious list of offerings that we will see below! 

Should You Buy a Brown Dial Watch?

Brown dial watches will always have a special place in the collection, so the answer is yes, most definitely! Brown is a great contrast to the usual black and blues in the watch box. This color will be a surefire match for anyone looking to add a bit of excitement to their watch rotation. 

Brown is subtle enough to match almost any outfit and bold enough to generate some interest. Whether in a formal office setting or taking a dip by the pool, brown dials just work. Of course, brown is at home when the world is transitioning into autumn.

Brown just seems to fit in when everyone is scrambling to find the perfect Halloween costume, sipping on pumpkin spice lattes, and watching the leaves change color. This versatile color can accompany you in any situation. Luckily, we’ve assembled a sublime list to help you choose your next brown dial watch.

The Best Brown Dial Watches

Vacheron Constantin Overseas (ref. 4500V/110A-B146)

Vacheron Constantin is one of the most premium watchmakers on the planet. Their very name drips with grace and exclusivity. Being able to hold and handle one of these astounding timepieces is a privilege and experience. Vacheron Constantin brought the Overseas collection back in 2016, and every year they have added more and more amazing watches to it.

The Overseas models are designed to be the perfect daily companion. One of the most convenient features of this watch is the interchangeable bracelet and strap system. This innovation makes it extremely easy to customize the look and feel of the watch. The layout is immaculate and features an ever-useful date window at the 3 o’clock position.

Every feature of this watch is finished with extreme attention to detail. The hour markers shine like mirrors and are razor cut to perfection. Turning over the Overseas immediately reveals the golden rotor, with sharp points radiating from the middle like sun rays. Behind the rotor is the in-house caliber 5100, beating away at 28,800vph and offering 60 hours of power reserve. 

Patek Philippe Aquanaut 5167R

First came Vacheron Constantin, and now comes Patek Philippe. Together, Audemars Piguet, Patek Philippe, and Vacheron Constantin form the “Big Three” or “Holy Trinity” of watchmaking. These heavyweights represent the absolute best that watchmaking has to offer. They are the quintessential watchmakers that every brand should look to for inspiration.

This brown Aquanaut is just one of the many luxurious timepieces that come from these brands. The unique rounded octagon shape caused a huge stir in the watch world when it was released, and it still leaves current admirers breathless. Golden, applied hour markers dot the edge of the watch, and a mesmerizing sweeping seconds hand makes its rotation around the watch.

The Aquanaut series bracelet can be swapped for numerous attractive options as well. Underneath the dial exposes the self-winding caliber 26‑330 S C, a true marvel in design and function. 

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph (ref. 26470ST.OO.A820CR.01)

The last of the “Big Three,” Audemars Piguet, lives up to its name with this offering from the popular Royal Oak collection. The 1972 release of the first watches in this collection changed how modern watches would be designed. They were sleek, exciting, and an absolute sensation. This Royal Oak has many of the features that buyers have come to expect: incredible quality, luxury status, and otherworldly levels of detail. 

This is undoubtedly a large 42mm watch with large pushers and a unique case shape. The signature octagonal bezel is lined with perfectly placed screws, creating a very pleasing continuity. This particular model comes on a gorgeous alligator strap that matches the deep brown of the dial.

Audemars Piguet describes the dial as “Mega Tapisserie,” with a waffle pattern that’s as delicious as it looks. Underneath this sweet treat is the caliber 3126/3840 self-winding movement, with 50 hours of power reserve. 

Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean (ref. 215.62.40.20.13.001)

The first of 3 Omega watches on this list is the 39.55mm Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean in a velvety hazel color. The Planet Ocean series represents Omega’s unique history with ocean-inspired watches. 

Every element of this watch blends together in a wonderful harmony. The hazel dial is a backdrop for the golden hands and white hour markers. The equally dark bezel contrasts with the gold lettering and pushers. Even the ceramic case is brown. This watch is simply a masterclass in pleasing design elements. 

Omega’s famed co-axial escapement makes its appearance in this watch as well. With this innovation, mechanical accuracy is increased even further. The Omega caliber 8800 automatic movement powers this chocolate delight. Resistant to magnetism, finished expertly, and a certified chronometer; this movement can do it all. 

Grand Seiko SBGR311

Grand Seiko is the Japanese answer to the luxury Swiss watchmaking industry. Since its inception, Grand Seiko has made revolutionary strides in watchmaking, such as with the invention of the spring drive movement. Known for absolutely breathtaking designs, Grand Seiko has created one of its most amazing pieces yet with the SBGR311. 

What immediately catches the eye is the swirling explosion of shapes on the dial. Every single shape is detailed with small lettering inside. This whirlpool of chocolate is simply hypnotic to look at. I could get lost in the dial and feel an inexplicable urge to satisfy my sweet tooth. 

Inside this delicious morsel is the caliber 9S65 automatic movement, which is lightweight and extremely accurate. Zaratsu polishing makes every aspect of this watch shine with a mirror finish. A sapphire caseback shows both the movement and the Grand Seiko lion logo, roaring with life. This watch is simply divine.

Rolex Day-Date 40 Chocolate Dial (ref. 228235)

To many people, Rolex will always be the ultimate luxury brand. Rolex is always in huge demand, and any new release by them is immediately snatched up by the hungry masses. This attractive colorway of the famous Day-Date model instantly demands attention with its absolutely beautiful and warm hues. 

The exclusive Rolex Everose case glows in the light and perfectly contrasts the rich dial. The fluted bezel is a signature Rolex detail, as is the cyclops magnifier at the 3 o’clock position. At 40mm, this watch is larger than more traditional Day-Date models, but nearly any wrist can accommodate this piece. And with the extraordinary “President” bracelet wrapped around the wrist, any lucky wearer will find themselves with a truly magnificent watch. 

Glashütte Original Sixties Brown (ref. 39-52-10-02-01)

One look at this German watch makes you want to steal another look. You’ll get lost in the unique and elaborate imprinted dial and want more. Glashütte Original will be able to satisfy your desire for more with a watch that pays tribute to the 1960s. The soft, rounded case is extremely comfortable to wear. The 39mm case is reserved and appropriate for any wrist.

Inside the polished steel case is the caliber 39-52. The numbers on the dial look like carefully etched Arabic numerals, something not seen in other watches. This watch is strictly time-only, with no other complication in sight. The symmetry and visual appeal are unmatched with Glashütte Original’s stunning timepiece. 

Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Day Date Desert Edition (ref. 5052 1146 E52A)

Blancpain is the oldest watch brand that still exists to this day. Throughout the centuries, Blancpain has perfected the art of watchmaking and truly takes it to another level. The Fifty Fathoms line is Blancpain’s signature dive watch collection, started in the golden age of diving and marine exploration in the early 1950s. 

This limited edition model in the Fifty Fathoms line is fascinating and complicated. The desert colorway is light and attractive. The dial gleams in the light and sweeps away like sand in the wind. A khaki-colored strap matches the sandy dial. A 43mm case houses the caliber 1315DD, with an enormous 120 power reserve. With so much power on the wrist, this watch is as hardy as the desert sun. 

Zenith Chronomaster Revival A385

Zenith reaches its highest point with the Chronomaster Revival A385. This model breathes life into classic models of Zenith’s past. As a modern interpretation of the original A385 from 1969, this revival has much to live up to. With numerous modern upgrades, like the ladder-style bracelet and refined movement, this watch takes the old and catapults it into the future.

Zenith is known for making avant-garde movements and housed inside the chunky 37mm tonneau-shaped case is the legendary El Primero automatic movement. Zenith prominently displays the movement’s specifications on its website, and for good reason. This movement is revered in the watchmaking industry for its gorgeous finishing, unrivaled accuracy, and innovative design. The movement works at 36,000vph and offers a 50-hour power reserve. 

Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Brown Dial (ref. 311.32.42.30.13.001)

The Moonwatch is one of the most beloved in the watch industry. Its story has been told countless times and will forever be tied to Omega’s legendary association with space and the galaxy. An Omega Speedmaster can truly do it all and is a serious contender for a one-watch-only collection. 

The famous Speedmaster DNA that everyone is familiar with is in this brown dial version. The symmetrical dial, lume pips at 12 o’clock, tachymeter scale, and large pushers are all here. A matching brown leather strap comes with this watch, but Speedmasters are well-known for being able to look good on almost anything.

At 42mm, the watch is large but sits very comfortably on the wrist thanks to the watch’s soft contours. Like other iconic Speedmasters, the famous Omega caliber 1863 powers this watch. It is visible behind the transparent sapphire caseback. 

Oris Aquis Date Brown Dial (ref. 01 733 7730 4152-07 5 24 12EB)

As one of the few privately owned watch companies, Oris maintains a unique position in the market. Instead of answering to a larger authority regarding their designs and decision-making, they answer solely to themselves. The Aquis is a series of no-nonsense dive watches that offer impeccable performance and brilliant design. 

This mono-brown variant of these serious divers is large, bold, and entirely functional. Generous lume, the large 43.5mm case size, and the long stick hour markers make viewing this watch under the water a breeze. The rotating dive bezel is crisp, satisfying, and locks into place. A gorgeous chocolate-colored strap matches the mono-brown dial. Finally, the Oris 733 automatic movement is found in this beauty and many other watches in Oris’s lineup. 

Longines Legend Diver (ref. L3.774.4.60.2)

Relive an era of legendary watchmaking with this heritage dive watch from the esteemed brand Longines. The extremely famous Longines logo, a winged hourglass, is stamped at the top of this Legend Diver. Any timepiece with the winged hourglass symbol is worthy of inclusion in the Longines lineup.

The Legend Diver is ruggedly handsome and retains the original super compressor design. This is evident by the two prominent pushers on the side of the case, which control the inner rotating bezel. This mechanism also increases the water resistance of this dive watch.

This is an exciting feature that sets this watch apart from others. This big, 42mm daring watch is powered by the Longines exclusive L888 automatic movement. A large 72-hour power reserve means this diving legend will be running for long periods. 

Seiko Presage SRPF43

I stick by the adage that every collection needs a Seiko. Seiko has such a huge variety of pieces in its collection that it’s hard to find something that someone won’t like. The Presage line from Seiko combines Japanese artistry and cutting-edge mechanical capabilities. This model is one of the many “Cocktail Time” watches, taking inspiration from various drinks in Japan. These affordable, classy dress watches are undoubtedly worth taking a closer look.

This dial is actually inspired by a specially roasted tea named Hojicha. Compared to other teas, this tea produces a light golden color when roasted. This is reflected on the dressy dial, which is a rich brown and yellow gradient. This 38.5mm watch is handsome enough to fit any casual or formal situation. On the caseback is an engraving with the serial number of this limited edition collection.

The entry-level Seiko 4R35 automatic movement powers the watch, generating 41 hours of power reserve when fully wound or “roasted.” Indeed, looking at the toasty brown dial, I can only think of wanting to take a sip! 

Montblanc Heritage Perpetual Calendar Limited Edition (ref. 128669)

Montblanc has made quite a name for itself in recent years. The renowned pen company has taken serious steps to make it a contender in the often cutthroat luxury watch market. Montblanc’s integration with Minerva, a highly respected watch movement manufacturer, cemented Montblanc’s future as a brand that makes more than just pens.

This stunning perpetual calendar is one of the best examples of this new direction. This limited edition version of the Heritage Perpetual Calendar could easily be double its asking price. Perpetual calendars are the pinnacle of fine watchmaking, requiring immense care and careful attention to detail to assemble.

This heritage model echoes earlier Minerva model watches. This elegant, 40mm perpetual calendar features a gorgeous caramel-colored dial and displays an encyclopedia of knowledge on its many subdials. Housed inside the 18K pink gold case is the caliber MB 29.22, beating away at 28.800vph and offering a 48-hour power reserve.

This dedicated perpetual calendar module can be viewed through the sapphire caseback, treating the eyes with a beautifully applied Côtes de Genève pattern. The snow-capped Mont Blanc mountain is displayed proudly at the top of the watch, a sign of Montblanc’s dedication to quality. 

H. Moser & Cie Venturer Big Date (ref. 2100-0402)

Exclusivity is the name of the game for H. Moser & Cie. Produced in very limited quantities, each mechanical marvel from the workshops of H. Moser & Cie is lovingly handcrafted and painstakingly examined for quality. This Venturer model is a 50-piece limited edition production from a brand that already makes very few watches a year anyway, which gives away just how special this watch is. 

This timepiece is an appropriate 41.5mm in case size, and it seems even bigger with the watch’s design choices. The elegant H. Moser & Cie logo is spelled out in cursive at the top of the dial, but the most exciting elements of the watch are the big date window and the large cutout for the seconds at the 6 o’clock position. 

These huge features make the watch extremely bold to look at and highly legible. Flipping the piece on its back reveals a stunning manual-winding movement from H. Moser & Cie, with an enormous 7-day power reserve and small power reserve complication. 

Omega Constellation Brown Dial (ref. 123.10.38.21.10.001)

Of the many offerings in the vast Omega catalog, the Constellation series is among the most beautiful. The Constellation series gets its name from the gorgeous, deep engraving of an observatory on the caseback viewing the stars. This almost romantic imagery invokes a sense of wonder and discovery.

Indeed, this copper-brown Omega Constellation is a wonder to behold. The sharply finished hour markers and hands reflect like the stars in the night sky. At the 6 o’clock position is a silver star that provides a wonderful point of dial symmetry. 

The 38mm watch wears small due to its case shape and perfectly slips under any cuff. The craftsmanship is top-notch, and this dressy piece, in particular, is on an adjustable steel bracelet. Instead of the classic observatory engraving on the back, a sapphire crystal caseback shows off the Omega Co-Axial caliber 8500 in all of its glory. 

Oris Divers Sixty-Five (ref. 01 733 7707 4356-07 5 20 45)

The Divers Sixty-Five line is like taking a time machine back to the retro days of Beatlemania and bell-bottom jeans. This watch takes various elements of vintage styles from this era and blends them together like a smoothie. The burnt orange and brown dial is reminiscent of a swirling cup of coffee.

Attractive round hour markers dot the outer edges of the dial. The 40mm dial is larger than you might find in a vintage diver, but this modern fit looks great on any wrist. The Divers Sixty-Five is slim thanks to its wonderful tapering and doesn’t sit tall on the wrist.

At the heart of this vintage blend is the Oris 733 movement, based on the workhorse Sellita SW200-1. Finally, with 100 meters of water resistance, this watch will be more than capable of surviving nearly any aquatic situation.  

Breitling Transocean Chronograph 38 (ref. U4131012/Q600-725P) 

Breitling is known for being big and bold, but this Transocean Chronograph shows that Breitling can tap into its reserved side and offer something truly special. The Transocean series was recently revived by Breitling and is now one of their premier watch lines.

The name takes its inspiration from the golden days of aviation when advancements in aviation technology made flying across the ocean possible. It’s easy to see the pilot influences on this watch. The watch is very functional, with a chronograph, tachymeter, and a host of other features that appeal to the pilot in all of us.

The 38mm case size seems conservative for Breitling’s standards, but this makes it that much easier to wear on the wrist. It sits tall and demands presence. The pleasing golden bezel contrasts the dark brown dial and leather strap. The Transocean is back and better than ever, it seems.

Hamilton American Classic Intra-Matic Auto (ref. H38735501)

Hamilton, the Swiss brand that combines masculine, All-American designs with precision Swiss engineering, offers this mesmerizing timepiece from their American Classic collection. The smoky brown dial of this vintage-inspired watch brings to mind an old-world type of cool. The radiant dial smoothly transitions to a light brown in the center.

Simple stick hour markers and hands clearly display the time. The date complication has its own golden window at the 6 o’clock position, giving some visual interest to the piece. Despite the vintage inspirations, this is definitely a modern timepiece. The sizable 42mm case size makes it stand out on the wrist. The lug width is also quite wide, at 22mm.

The movement is also created to modern standards. The powerful ETA 2892-A2 beats away inside the case and offers a respectable 42 hours of power reserve. Hamilton’s history is as rich as the smoky chocolate dial on this watch’s blend of vintage and modern. 

Farer Eldridge Chronograph

Among the titans in watchmaking on this list, like Vacheron Constantin, Audemars Piguet, and Patek Philippe, it would be hard for a newer brand like Farer to stand out. Founded in 2015, Farer is the newest watch brand on the list. This means they are up against stiff competition with much richer and more celebrated stories than them.

However, Farer’s Eldridge Chronograph can certainly appeal to many people with its bold flashes of color and symmetrical design. Farer forgoes many traditional watchmaking designs and creates its own unique pieces. Browsing their catalog reveals unique tropical colors, chunky hour markers, fun designs, and more.

This 39mm Eldridge Chronograph combines chocolate brown and turquoise blue. The blue chronograph hand is a stark contrast to the brown dial. Inside the watch is the reliable ETA 2894-2 movement, a sign of quality and care. 

One of the most delightful features of this design is the expertly placed date window. Rather than sacrifice symmetry by setting the date window at somewhere like the 3 o’clock position, it is at the 6 o’clock position instead. This small but appreciated change is just one of many details on this fine watch. 

Conclusion

Brown dial watches are certainly an interesting piece to add to the collection. The roasted coffee color is warm and inviting. They add an element of interest to a collection and will stand out on any wrist. Even the most exclusive brands are starting to see why brown is the color that is trending at the moment. Admire the wonderful pieces we have assembled for you today, and grab a bite of chocolate as well!