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Double-Signed Dial

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(duhb-uhl-sahynd dahyl)

A double-signed dial is found on a watch that was manufactured by one firm and retailed by another, featuring the signatures of both.

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What Does

Double-Signed Dial

Mean?

A double-signed dial in watchmaking refers to a watch dial that bears the signatures of both the manufacturer and the retailer. This practice originated in the early 20th century when watch manufacturers relied on a network of trusted retailers to sell their products in various markets worldwide. Retailers were sometimes allowed to add their own signature to the watch dial, typically at the six or twelve o'clock position, to enhance the watch's appeal to local collectors. Double-signed dials became less common by the 1990s as manufacturers began managing their own retail outlets. However, the allure of such collaborations has persisted, with double-signed watches often being highly sought after by collectors due to their rarity, provenance, and the added historical context they provide. Notable examples include collaborations between brands like Patek Philippe and retailers such as Tiffany & Co. and Cartier. These watches are often seen as unique pieces that offer a glimpse into the history of both the watchmaking and retailing industries, making them particularly valuable in the eyes of collectors.

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