Watch Dial Design: 'Eaten' Six Discussion

Spangles - Dr. Tabby · 2020-07-22T10:33:37Z

Explore the 'eaten six' dial design in watches. Dr. Tabby and WatchProSite collectors discuss preferences for sub-seconds layouts, from partial numerals to dots.

Spangles - Dr. Tabby

WPS member · Horological Meandering forum

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Dr. Tabby, known as Spangles on WatchProSite, delves into a fascinating and often debated aspect of watch dial design: the 'eaten six.' This editorial explores the historical context of this design element, particularly its prevalence in pocket watches, and invites collectors to share their aesthetic preferences for sub-seconds dial layouts. Dr. Tabby's original post sparks a lively discussion on whether a partial numeral, a dot, or a complete absence of the six is most appealing.

A partial six numeral with a sub-seconds was so common at one point in pocket watches, they were called "6 eaters". But, How do YOU feel about them? Do you prefer a dot? Nothing at all? What is best for a sub-seconds? Let me know your preference, please. And feel free to post wristwatches whose dial layout is to your liking!

An ”Eaten" Six!

Another Partial Six

A Dot or Marker Rather Than a Six. What do you think of this?

No Six, But No Five Or Seven, Either!!!

No Six, but Five and Seven Are Replaced With Markers

Key Points from the Discussion

The 'eaten six' can be seen as an intentional design choice, requiring careful placement of fragments to avoid looking unnatural, rather than an afterthought. While acceptable in pocket watches, complete numerals are often preferred in wristwatches.
When a dial features Arabic hour markers, an 'eaten six' is often preferred over a dot for coherence, suggesting more design thought. However, with mixed markers (Arabic, baton, dauphine), the preference becomes more subjective.
The visual balance of the dial is paramount; if the movement is properly sized for the dial, the sub-dial will be well-proportioned, making the 'eaten six' secondary to the overall aesthetic.
Some collectors are particularly bothered by sub-dials cutting into the minute track, leading them to sell watches with this design element, emphasizing the importance of minute markers.
An 'eaten six' can be an artfully composed and rare feature, as seen in vintage pieces like an early caliber 30 movement steel reference 2097, highlighting its historical significance and aesthetic appeal.
The key to a successful 'eaten six' or any sub-seconds layout is that it must be well-made and balanced within the overall dial design, with proportion being a critical factor.

The Discussion

kev09

Jul 22, 2020

Certainly, in my opinion, the examples you’ve shown are nicer with the eaten 6. Regards Kev.

Kurt Behm

Jul 22, 2020

Not optimal, but better than leaving what looks like a zero in that space. I might personalize the 6 to make it stand out, like Bedat does with their number 8. Kurt

Brandon Skinner

Jul 22, 2020

But one look at that gorgeous Omega and I could easily live with it! That’s a real beauty.

Spangles - Dr. Tabby

Jul 22, 2020

How about shrinking the six down, a little like how FPJ handles some numerals on some watches?

Spangles - Dr. Tabby

Jul 22, 2020

Well, maybe not, but they'd have some beautiful watches!

LiftAngle51

Jul 22, 2020

On many watches there is no 3, because of a date window. An eaten 6 is a creative way design of a dial. Yes, the pocket watch heritage of smal seconds is the reason. Should i buy a watch with an eaten 6? No, because i chose watches with a central second hand. Ever seen a Rolex day date with smal second hand in a dial? No. Only a Daytona have it, and a yachtmaster chronograph.

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