Introducing: Dennison ALD Dual Time "Shades" (Live Pics)

What We Know

The relaunched Dennison grabbed attention and turned heads with its debut ALD collection, using affordable quartz movements mixed with high-end, considered design from Switzerland’s Emmanuel Gueit to take us back to the go-go glam era of stone dials and bold shapes of the 70s and 80s. When the brand then expanded the ALD line to include a dual-time model with two handsets powered by a pair of Swiss quartz movements, the dial sides were differentiated with stones, including marble and tiger-eye, and we were here for it and impressed. Now, with the Dennison ALD Dual Time “Shades” models launching today, Dennison is remixing its travel watch collection with a more restrained offering: three new shaded dials featuring indexes for the first time and a steel-link bracelet that aims for a more refined, subdued, but certainly no less fun vibe. And the price point remains approachable with all the new models priced at around $800 or under. 

Housed in the same, noticeably thin and wearable 37mm by 35.6mm stainless steel case as previous ALD models, the “Shades” dual time is all about the interplay of light on each monochromatic dial. Each variation, the green, blue, and brown are one color, but the brushing technique on each side–horizontal on the left and vertical on the right–changes how light reflects and how each appears to the eye. At some angles, the difference between the sides is hardly noticeable, but a slight wrist shift makes the contrast dramatic. 

The use of indexes on each handset is another first for Dennison. On the left, vertically brushed side, retro-modern style Arabic numerals at twelve o’clock and six o’clock improve time-telling legibility and aid in deciphering the relatively small hour and minutes hands. On the right, Roman numerals also at twelve and six, frame the Dennison logo below the steel indicators on the horizontal brushed half. The difference between each side and the handset remains stealthy until the proper angle reveals it, underscoring the contrasting brushing techniques that create the differing shades. 

Also new is a steel link bracelet option that Dennison calls ‘pebble-link.’ It’s a dressy, polished-metal bracelet reminiscent of a beads-of-rice style, elevating the look and comfort level while remaining surprisingly elegant for the price point. With a hidden butterfly clasp, it heightens the timepiece’s impact while remaining relatively light and easy to wear for most wrist sizes.

There’s also a calf-leather strap option in taupe that again utilizes a Dennison ALD case shape inspired pin buckle – a thoughtful design touch that raises the quality impression of the quartz-powered watch and reinforces the brand’s nascent but clear design cues and language. The choice of smooth leather over the grained texture of previous straps adds a fresh element and underscores the versatility of the case shape and the ALD line in general. 

What We Think

The ALD Dual Time has, for us, represented a fun, modern, and affordable way to relive the glamorous era of air travel, when economy wasn’t such a slog and carriers tried to bring style and taste to the skies. The new “Shades” models uphold the first-class element of the brief and tone down the disco-era vibes of the original stone-dial versions. They’re certainly likely to appeal to those looking for a more refined, subtle version of the classic dual-time, two-hand watch, once a staple of Piaget and Cartier collections in bygone eras. The dial work is intriguing, and the new indexes certainly improve legibility, which can be an issue given the relatively small hands on each side.

The new steel ‘pebble-link’ bracelet is a welcome addition for those who prefer metal to leather. It adds weight and presence to these light and thin little pieces of fun while remaining a bit glam and dressy. With the price point well under a grand, these watches keep their whimsicality rather than their weightiness, and are a stylish way to stay on time, whether up in the air or between airport lounges. Friendly skies for all.

The Basics

Brand: Dennison
Model: ALD Dual Time “Shades”

Diameter: 37mm x 35.6 mm
Thickness: 6.1 mm
Case Material: Stainless steel
Dial Color: Blue/Brown/Green with contrasting brushed finishes, dual display with indexes
Indexes: Stamped
Lume: No
Water Resistance: 30 meters
Strap/Bracelet: Taupe leather or Pebble-link steel bracelet

The Movement

Caliber: Two Swiss Quartz Ronda Cal. 1032
Functions: Dual time
Diameter: 9 x 13.20 mm
Thickness: 1.95 mm
Jewels: 7
Chronometer Certified: No

Pricing & Availability

Price: $820 on Pebble-link steel bracelet, $740 on taupe calf-skin strap.
Availability: Now
Limited Edition:  No 

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