Summary Waqt Selects the Top 3 Watches of 2024 that Display Time in Unconventional Ways

Creating a simple mechanical watch is no small feat. It demands extensive knowledge of mechanics, materials, and mathematics. Designing a special watch requires creativity, but crafting a timepiece that tells time in an unconventional way necessitates mastering horological science at its highest level. This ensures that a unique watch not only performs its function but does so with exceptional flair.

While most watches rely on traditional hour and minute hands, a few daring manufacturers push boundaries, leveraging their technical expertise to redefine how time is displayed. In watchmaking, creativity is paramount, challenging the norms of how time is measured and experienced. Some watches even personify time or incorporate intricate mechanisms purely for our delight.

At Waqt, we've curated three extraordinary watches introduced in 2024 that break free from conventional timekeeping, showcasing bold and innovative designs.

Beda’a Eclipse
Unconventional design often comes from established names with decades of experience. However, it becomes even more remarkable when delivered by a newcomer. Enter the Qatari brand Beda’a with its stunning Eclipse watch, a testament to artistry, innovation, and affordability.

Drawing inspiration from its celestial namesake, the Eclipse reimagines timekeeping through its bold "blocking" concept. The watch selectively reveals essential information, creating a mesmerizing display that commands attention while ensuring comfort for daily wear.

Crafted from 904L stainless steel, the case measures 37mm in diameter and 8.1mm in height, combining sleekness with robustness. Its standout feature, the celestial shield, obscures most of the dial, leaving a window for the hour display. Surrounding this shield is a floating minutes hand, resembling sunrays peeking out during an eclipse. The intricate 3D-dial architecture adds depth, producing a luminous effect unlike any other.

The Eclipse is priced from CHF 2,058 (approximately AED 8,500). Read the full article about the watch here.

Genus GNS2 Launch Edition

Since its debut in 2019, independent brand Genus has revolutionized horology. Within a year, its inaugural timepiece won the prestigious Mechanical Exception Prize at GPHG. The brand continues to innovate with the GNS2, crafted from grade 5 titanium.

The GNS2 dial is divided into two symmetrical sections, featuring two open-worked wheels in a figure-eight configuration. The matte black base contrasts with satin-brushed and rhodium-plated finishes, creating a captivating play of light.

Minutes are displayed via a primary blue arrow following Genus’s signature figure-eight pattern, while hours are indicated by three additional origami-like arrows. Traditional hands are notably absent, making the GNS2 a masterpiece of unconventional timekeeping.

Limited to just 18 pieces, the GNS2 is priced at CHF 58,250 (approximately AED 245,000). Find our detailed article about the watch here.

Hublot MP-10 Tourbillon Weight Energy System Titanium

The MP-10 Tourbillon Weight Energy System Titanium is the latest marvel in Hublot’s "Manufacture Piece" (MP) collection, renowned for high horology.

This limited edition features a matte-finished, micro-blasted titanium case with a uniquely shaped sapphire crystal, showcasing Hublot’s most intricate design yet. The dial spans three inclined planes, offering a distinctive aesthetic.

Timekeeping on the MP-10 is intuitive despite its complexity. A stack of four rotating displays clearly marks the hour and minute with red pointers, making the time easy to read. Below these, a rotating power reserve display shifts from green to red, indicating remaining energy. At the base, the seconds are displayed within the monobloc aluminum tourbillon cage, inclined at 35 degrees.

Limited to 50 pieces, the MP-10 is priced at CHF 250,000 (approximately AED 1,062,000). Read our in-depth review about the watch here.