In the realm of horology, watches featuring three subdials are predominantly kno

In the realm of horology, watches featuring three subdials are predominantly known as Chronographs. These subdials serve distinct functions: a 0-60 scale for the small seconds dial, acting as the conventional seconds display; a 0-30 scale for the minute accumulator, and a 0-12 scale for the hour accumulator. In versions with only two subdials, it’s typical to omit the hour accumulator.

A common misconception about the chronograph’s “big second hand” is that it measures continuous seconds; however, this hand remains stationary until the chronograph function is activated. Each complete rotation of this hand advances the minute accumulator by one increment, which can either snap to the next minute or gradually move, depending on the watch’s mechanism. Since the chronograph feature can deplete the mainspring’s power reserve, it is not advised to keep it running constantly.

Quartz chronographs may include subdials with a 0-10 scale to display tenths of a second, showcasing precision not typically achievable by mechanical chronographs (although the Zenith El Primero movement is an exception).

Additionally, pointer-type annual and perpetual calendars, as well as full calendar watches, often incorporate subdials to indicate the date, day of the week, and month, distinguishable by the text on their scales.