A Bold New California Dial Debuts on the Serica Ref. 6190 TDM

The latest iteration of Serica’s field chronometer features one of the most distinctive California dial designs to emerge in recent years.

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Let us indulge in some intellectual discourse for a moment. You may be familiar with the term JDM, an abbreviation for Japanese Domestic Market, referring to products manufactured exclusively for Japan and, in principle, not available outside the country. Which renders them impressive. The California dial, a design originating from the 1930s, was intended to improve legibility by integrating Roman numerals in the upper half and Arabic numerals in the lower half. Once more, something quite intriguing. With a few deviations, such as a new Panerai with Chinese numerals instead of Arabic ones, the pattern remains largely consistent. Serica has resolved to enhance its Ref. 6190 Field Chronometer today by including additional elements of sophistication, resulting in the TDM, which features Thai-inspired design.

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The Serica Ref. 6190 TDM is entirely focused on Thailand. Initially, it has been developed solely for the Thai Domestic Market – go to the source here… Subsequently, employing the California dial concept from the classic collection, the brand has reinterpreted it into one of the most innovative renditions observed recently, utilising Thai numerals – undoubtedly an uncommon sight. We are observing an evolution of the classic Ref. 6190, representing Serica’s interpretation of a field chronometer. This watch is sleek, durable, and precise, featuring a compact design within a 37.7mm casing and a total thickness of 10.4mm, despite the substantial sapphire crystal and a solid 200m water resistant. The case is elegantly designed, featuring a flat stepped bezel and twisting lugs, characterised by alternating polished and brushed finishes. An oversized 8mm crown on the side facilitates ease of operation.

Serica

The dial of this Ref. 6190 TDM imparts the watch with its distinctive character. The dial, sleek and polished with an enamel finish, preserves the traditional configuration of a California design, featuring a distinct railroad minute track, a triangle at 12 o’clock, baton markers at 3, 6, and 9 o’clock, and Roman numerals in the upper half. The lower half is significantly more original, since it substitutes traditional Arabic numerals with Thai numerals, a script renowned for its grace and curvature, which is rarely observed in horology. All these components are constructed from prominently domed SLN, and the broad arrow hands are likewise extensively luminescent.

Concealed beneath the screwed case back is the automated SoProd M100, a substitute for the ETA 2824 and Sellita SW200, operating at 4Hz and with a power reserve of 42 hours. The watch is certified as a chronometer by COSC. The timepiece is equipped with a 20mm Bonklip steel bracelet featuring a signature clasp. The Serica Ref. 6190 TDM Field Chronometer is priced at EUR 1,190 (including taxes) and is limited to 100 units solely for the Thai domestic market. Impressive and reasonably priced. For additional information, kindly visit serica-watches.com.