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Pre-Owned Watches with Roman Numerals

Classic design meets timeless clarity—explore pre-owned watches with Roman numeral dials curated for elegant taste.

99 Watches
99 Watches

Discover Pre-Owned Roman Numeral Watches

Roman numeral watches embody tradition, heritage, and an unmistakable elegance. Their classic dial typography evokes watchmaking's golden age — a timeless aesthetic that transcends trends. For many collectors, a Roman numeral dial signifies enduring style and refined taste.

Our curated collection of pre-owned Roman numeral watches brings together iconic references from premier maisons and master craftsmen. Each watch is authenticated, condition-evaluated, and presented to the exacting standards of The 1916 Company, offering collectors clarity, provenance, and trusted access to rare pieces.

Notable Roman Numeral References

  • Cartier Santos — A timeless classic combining square-cushion architecture with elegant Roman numerals, bridging heritage and everyday wear.
  • Patek Philippe Aquanaut — A modern Patek with refined styling and Roman dial markers for understated luxury.
  • Daniel Roth Extra-Plat — A distinctive slim profile and classical Roman numerals exemplifying independent watchmaking finesse.
  • Breguet Marine — Heritage craftsmanship paired with nautical inspiration and elegant Roman numerals for a refined look.

Why Roman Numeral Watches Remain Beloved

Roman numeral dials offer more than readability — they evoke a sense of tradition and craftsmanship rooted in centuries of horological history. Many fine watches feature the watchmaker's four, using "IIII" instead of the mathematically expected "IV" on the dial. This long-standing convention dates back to early clockmaking and is still favored today for visual balance, symmetry across the dial, and improved legibility. Whether paired with classic dress cases or bold modern designs, Roman numerals bring enduring character and thoughtful design to the wrist. For collectors, ownership means connecting to both aesthetic refinement and watchmaking tradition.

Featured Brands for Roman Numeral Dial Watches

  • Cartier — Masters of classical dial design and geometric elegance, famously associated with bold Roman numerals.
  • Patek Philippe — Prestigious craftsmanship with timeless dial aesthetics and carefully balanced numeral layouts.
  • Breguet — Watchmaking heritage and refined artistry, often employing traditional Roman numerals and historical conventions.
  • Daniel Roth — Independent watchmaking defined by classical inspiration, distinctive cases, and elegant Roman numeral dials.

Compare Roman Numeral Watch Styles

BrandDesign LanguageNumeral StyleBest For
Cartier Heritage-driven elegance and refined geometryClassic Roman layout, often featuring the watchmaker's four (IIII)Those seeking timeless sophistication with bold wrist presence
Patek Philippe Refined Swiss craftsmanship and understated luxuryBalanced Roman numerals with high finishing standardsCollectors looking for heirloom quality and lasting value
Breguet Classic watchmaking heritage with benchmark finishingElegant Roman numerals rooted in historical design conventionsThose drawn to heritage, craftsmanship, and historical legacy
Daniel Roth Independent craftsmanship with classical inspirationRoman numerals paired with distinctive case shapes and slender profilesCollectors seeking individuality with traditional aesthetics

The 1916 Company Experience

Each pre-owned Roman numeral watch offered by The 1916 Company undergoes a detailed authentication and condition review. Our specialists evaluate the dial, numeral printing, movement, case integrity, and any accompanying documentation or provenance. This ensures that every piece we list meets our high standard of quality and trust.

Whether you're building a classical collection, seeking a refined everyday watch, or hunting for a rare find, our Client Advisors are ready to guide you with personalized service and expert insight.

A Roman numeral watch uses traditional Roman numerals (“I, II, III … XII”) on the dial instead of Arabic numbers or simple markers, reflecting classical watchmaking tradition and heritage design.
Many Roman numeral watches use the watchmaker’s four, displaying “IIII” rather than “IV.” This convention dates back to early clockmaking and is favored for visual balance, symmetry on the dial, and easier legibility.
Yes. While “IV” is mathematically correct, “IIII” has been accepted in horology for centuries and remains widely used by respected watchmakers today.
Roman numerals offer a refined, heritage-driven aesthetic that connects a watch to historical design practices and enhances the character of traditional case shapes.
Cartier, Patek Philippe, Breguet, and Daniel Roth - among others - are well known for producing distinguished watches featuring Roman numeral dials.
Yes. Many Roman numeral watches are designed with durable movements and quality cases, making them suitable for daily wear while retaining classic elegance.
Watches from respected brands with original, well-preserved Roman numeral dials often maintain strong collector interest, particularly when condition and authenticity are intact.
Not necessarily. Well-designed Roman numeral dials prioritize spacing, contrast, and proportion, resulting in strong legibility despite their classical appearance.
Cartier models such as the Tank, Santos, Ballon Bleu, and Tortue are especially recognized for their bold Roman numeral dials and iconic design language.
Roman numeral watches are most commonly associated with dress watches, but many modern designs translate well to everyday and casual wear depending on case material, size, and strap choice.