Bezel
The ring surrounding the watch crystal; it may be fixed, decorative or rotatable for timing or other functions.
Also known as: watch bezel, bezel ring
Definition
The bezel is the ring at the front of a watch case that surrounds the crystal. On some watches it is primarily structural or decorative; on others it carries a functional scale and may rotate. Bezels can be smooth, fluted, engraved, gem-set or fitted with a separate insert made from metal, aluminium, ceramic or another material. A rotating bezel can provide elapsed-time, countdown, compass or second-time-zone information depending on its scale and direction of rotation. The bezel should not be confused with the dial chapter ring or rehaut inside the crystal.
Why it matters
The bezel can be a major visual element and, on tool watches, a useful instrument. Its material, scale, grip and rotation mechanism affect legibility, durability and practical use.