Made in the USA · TWBC-Certified Watchmakers

Custom VK63 and VK64 Chronograph Watch Dials

Custom 28.5mm and 31.5mm Meca-Quartz Dials

Artisan Dials creates custom watch dials for the Seiko/TMI VK63 and VK64 meca-quartz chronograph movements. Both movements combine accurate quartz timekeeping with mechanical-style chronograph operation. The VK63 uses a traditional three-subdial layout, while the VK64 offers a cleaner two-subdial arrangement.

Available Dial Sizes

Our custom VK63 and VK64 dials are available in two primary sizes. Both maintain the exact movement-controlled subdial positions.

Most Common

28.5mm

The most common VK63/VK64 dial size. Fits the majority of 40–42mm chronograph cases. Movement-controlled subdial positions are fixed at this diameter.

31.5mm

Provides additional design space around the functional layout. Suits larger 43–45mm cases. Must be made specifically for the selected VK63 or VK64 movement.

The outside dial diameter does not change the movement-controlled locations of the center opening, subdial posts or date window. A 31.5mm version provides additional design space around the outside of the functional layout, but it must be made specifically for the selected VK63 or VK64 movement.
ELAPSEDMIN9 o'clockRUNNINGSEC6 o'clock24-HRIND.3 o'clockDATEVK63THREE-REGISTER
VK63 three-register chronograph watch
Three-Register

The VK63 Dial Layout

The VK63 is a three-register meca-quartz chronograph. Its dial must accommodate three subdials, a central chronograph-seconds hand, and a date window.

Elapsed-Minutes Counter9 o'clock

Records up to 60 elapsed chronograph minutes. Works in conjunction with the large central chronograph-seconds hand when timing an event.

Running-Seconds Subdial6 o'clock

Displays continuously running seconds — confirming the watch is running even when the chronograph is not active.

24-Hour Subdial3 o'clock

Displays the current time on a 24-hour scale. Follows the main hour hand and is not independently adjustable as a second time zone.

Chronograph-Seconds HandCenter

The large center-mounted seconds hand measures elapsed chronograph seconds. When reset, the hand snaps rapidly back to 12 o'clock.

Date WindowVariable

The VK63 includes a calendar function. The date may be displayed through a properly positioned window or concealed beneath a no-date dial.

Bicompax

Understanding the VK64 Dial Layout

The VK64 is a two-register, or bicompax, meca-quartz chronograph. It provides the same mechanical-style chronograph action as the VK63 but eliminates the running-seconds subdial at 6 o'clock. This produces a cleaner, more symmetrical dial with additional room for artwork, lettering and hour markers.

Elapsed-Minutes Subdial9 o'clock

Records up to 60 elapsed chronograph minutes. Works with the large central chronograph-seconds hand when timing an event.

24-Hour Subdial3 o'clock

Displays the current time on a 24-hour scale. Follows the main hour hand and is not independently adjustable as a second time zone.

Central Chronograph-Seconds HandCenter

The large center-mounted seconds hand measures elapsed chronograph seconds. When the chronograph is reset, the hand snaps rapidly back to 12 o'clock.

No Running-Seconds SubdialOpen space

Unlike the VK63, the VK64 does not have a running-seconds subdial at 6 o'clock. This leaves the lower portion of the dial open for a logo, model name, artwork or other design elements.

Date WindowVariable

The VK64 includes a calendar function. The date may be displayed through a properly positioned window or concealed beneath a no-date dial for a cleaner design.

ELAPSEDMIN9 o'clock24-HRIND.3 o'clockOPENDESIGNSPACEDATEVK64BICOMPAX
VK64 bicompax chronograph watch

VK63 and VK64 Layout Comparison

Side by side — every functional difference that affects how your dial must be designed.

Feature
VK63
VK64
Chronograph-minute counter
9 o'clock
9 o'clock
Running-seconds subdial
6 o'clock
None
24-hour indicator
3 o'clock
3 o'clock
Central chronograph seconds
Yes
Yes
Date function
Yes
Yes
Overall appearance
Three-register layout
Two-register bicompax layout
Best suited for
Technical and instrument-style designs
Clean, symmetrical and vintage designs

Which Movement Should You Choose?

63

Choose the VK63 When You Want:

  • A traditional three-subdial chronograph
  • Visible running seconds
  • A technical or instrument-panel appearance
  • A busier, performance-oriented design
  • Three subdials incorporated into the artwork
64

Choose the VK64 When You Want:

  • A clean two-subdial chronograph
  • More open space at 6 o'clock
  • A balanced bicompax layout
  • A vintage racing or dress-chronograph appearance
  • More room for artwork, a logo or model name
Neither layout is inherently better. The right choice depends on the appearance and functions you want in the finished watch.

Designing Around the Subdials

A VK63 design must accommodate three subdials, while a VK64 design uses two. In either movement, the subdials should be incorporated naturally into the artwork rather than appearing as unrelated circles placed over the design.

Turn Your Idea Into a Working Chronograph

VK63 and VK64 dials must do more than look attractive. Their subdial openings, center holes, date positions, artwork and hour markers must align precisely with the selected movement. Choose the three-register VK63 for a technical, instrument-inspired appearance or the two-register VK64 for a cleaner bicompax design. Artisan Dials combines original artwork with movement-specific preparation to create a working chronograph dial designed around your story.

Your Story, Told Through Time.

Finished Chronograph Builds

A custom VK63 or VK64 dial paired with a complete case, movement, and bracelet. This is what your design looks like on the wrist.

Completed Artisan Dials VK63 chronograph watch — stainless steel case with steel bracelet, three-register dial
Completed Artisan Dials VK63 chronograph watch — stainless steel case with black dial and steel bracelet
Completed Artisan Dials VK64 bicompax chronograph watch — stainless steel case with black dial, two-register layout

Complete chronograph builds include VK63 or VK64 movement, case, crystal, pushers, crown, and bracelet or strap. Start your design →

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a VK63 dial be used on a VK64 movement?+
No. The VK63 and VK64 have different subdial layouts. A VK63 dial includes a running-seconds register at 6 o'clock, while the VK64 does not. The dial must be engineered for the specific movement.
What is the main difference between the VK63 and VK64?+
The VK63 has three subdials, including running seconds at 6 o'clock. The VK64 has two subdials and leaves the 6 o'clock area open.
Does the VK64 have a running-seconds hand?+
The VK64 does not have a separate running-seconds display. Its large central hand is used to measure chronograph seconds.
Which movement provides more room for artwork?+
The VK64 generally provides more uninterrupted design space because it does not have a subdial at 6 o'clock.
What sizes are available?+
We cut VK63 and VK64 dials in 28.5mm and 31.5mm. Both sizes maintain the exact movement-controlled subdial positions — the larger size simply adds more design space around the outside.
Can I order a dial only, without a complete watch?+
Yes. If you already own a VK63 or VK64 movement, you can order the dial alone. Select the dial-only option during the design process and we will ship it ready to install.

Still have questions?