Most watches use the numerals familiar in Britain: 1, 2, 3. But some are made with Eastern Arabic numerals, used across much of the Middle East. These dials are beautiful, unusual and often collectable.
Two kinds of Arabic numerals
The numerals we use in Britain are often called Western Arabic numerals. Eastern Arabic numerals are used in Arabic-speaking countries and elsewhere in the region. Both come from the same origins but look quite different.
| Western | Eastern Arabic |
|---|---|
| 0 | ٠ |
| 1 | ١ |
| 2 | ٢ |
| 3 | ٣ |
| 4 | ٤ |
| 5 | ٥ |
| 6 | ٦ |
| 7 | ٧ |
| 8 | ٨ |
| 9 | ٩ |
On a watch dial
On a dial with Eastern Arabic numerals, 12 is written ١٢, 3 is ٣, 6 is ٦ and 9 is ٩. Rolex's Day-Date, which shows the day of the week in full, has also long been available with the day disc in Arabic, among many other languages.
Why collectors value them
- They were made in smaller numbers, often for Middle Eastern markets.
- Some vintage examples were made as special orders or gifts, which adds to their rarity.
- They look striking and distinctive, even to people who don't read the numerals.
As with any special dial, check it's original and matches the papers. Looking for one? Tell us and we'll search for it. Browse our Rolex Day-Date watches.
