The story of Buckley Dial
The term "Buckley dial" refers to a specific watch dial design characterized by painted (printed) Roman numerals rather than applied ones. This design is named after John Buckley, a vintage watch dealer and owner of Tuscany Rose in New York City, who popularized this particular style.
While the Buckley dial is most commonly associated with Rolex Datejust models from the 1970s and 1980s, featuring painted Roman numerals in black or white, there is evidence to suggest that Tudor, a brand affiliated with Rolex, also produced watches with similar dial designs during that era. Collectors have identified Tudor Prince Oysterdate models with painted Roman numeral dials that resemble the Buckley style.
These Tudor models typically feature:
-
Dial: A white background with black painted Roman numerals.
-
Hands: Matching black hands, maintaining the monochromatic aesthetic.
-
Case: Stainless steel or two-tone configurations.
It's important to note that while these Tudor watches share the painted Roman numeral design, the "Buckley dial" designation is more commonly associated with Rolex models. However, among enthusiasts and collectors, Tudor watches with this dial style are sometimes referred to as having Buckley dials due to the similarity in design.
For those interested in acquiring a Tudor watch with a Buckley-style dial, vintage markets and specialized watch dealers are potential avenues. Given the relative rarity of these models, consulting with experts or forums dedicated to vintage Tudor watches can provide valuable insights and guidance.
In summary, while the Buckley dial is primarily linked to Rolex, Tudor did produce watches with similar painted Roman numeral designs. These models offer a unique aesthetic and are appreciated by collectors for their distinctive look.