As we’ve covered in this space before, there are many different types of dials on watches. There are dark dials, black dials, clear dials or white dials.
So what exactly is a gilt dial?
A gilt dial is created by polishing a blank dial with clear lacquer then galvanized with a black layer. The clear part won’t stick, so only the remaining metal part is shown. Usually, a gilt dial gives off a gold or bronze look. The style was popular in the 1960s.
Rolex produced gilt dials from the 1950s until 1967 and can be seen in
vintage sport dials, including the Explorer and GMT Master.
Because the process is one that takes time and effort, it eventually fell out of favor by watch companies.
Here are a few examples of watches with gilt dials.
