The Mystery of the "Watchmaker's Four": Why Clocks Use IIII Instead of IV (And How to Read Them)

In a world of digital smartwatches and blinking screens, there is something undeniably elegant about a classic analog dial featuring Roman numerals. It speaks of history, tradition, and a certain sophistication.

However, if you look closely at a Roman numeral watch—like those in our Jowissa Roma Collection—you might notice something strange. The number 4 is not written as "IV" (as you learned in school), but as "IIII".

Is it a mistake? A typo?

Actually, it is a centuries-old horological tradition known as the "Watchmaker's Four." Here is the story behind this unique quirk and a quick guide on how to master reading these classic dials.

The Cheat Sheet: How to Read Roman Numerals

Before we solve the mystery of the number 4, let’s brush up on the basics. Reading a Roman numeral watch is easier than it looks. You only need to know three symbols:

• I = 1

• V = 5

• X = 10

The rules are simple logic:

1. Addition: If a smaller symbol is after a larger one, you add it. (e.g., VI is 5 + 1 = 6).

2. Subtraction: If a smaller symbol is before a larger one, you subtract it. (e.g., IX is 10 – 1 = 9).

3. The Exception: On watches, the standard subtraction rule for the number 4 (IV) is usually ignored in favor of IIII.

The Mystery: Why IIII and not IV?

There isn't one single confirmed reason why watchmakers favor IIII, but there are three leading theories, ranging from visual symmetry to royal decrees.

1. The Symmetry Theory (The Most Likely Reason)

Watchmaking is an art of balance. On a round dial, symbols need to carry equal visual "weight" to look pleasing to the eye.

• Look at the opposite side of the dial. The number 8 is written as VIII, which is a heavy, thick set of characters.

• If we used IV for 4, it would look thin and unbalanced compared to the heavy VIII across from it.

• By using IIII, the width matches the VIII almost perfectly, creating a harmonious, symmetrical look.

2. The "Rule of Three"

Using IIII creates a poetic rhythm on the dial that splits the 12 hours into three perfect groups:

• First 4 numbers: I, II, III, IIII (Only use I)

• Next 4 numbers: V, VI, VII, VIII (Use V)

• Last 4 numbers: IX, X, XI, XII (Use X)

3. The King’s Decree (The Legend)

A popular legend tells of King Louis XIV of France (the Sun King). The story goes that a watchmaker presented a clock to the King using "IV". The King, preferring the look of IIII, insisted it be changed. Since you don't argue with a King, the style stuck!

Why Choose a Roman Numeral Watch Today?

You might ask: Why wear Roman numerals in the modern age?

The answer is Style. Roman numerals turn a timepiece into a piece of jewelry. They add a layer of texture and vintage charm that plain numbers (Arabic numerals) often lack.

At Jowissa, we celebrate this tradition with our Roma Collection. We combine these classical Roman indices with our signature Swiss Made quality and modern design elements, such as:

• Faceted Glass: Our diamond-cut crystals catch the light, making the Roman numerals underneath pop with brilliance.

• Colored Dials: We place classic gold or silver numerals against deep emerald, amethyst, or turquoise dials for a look that is both historic and contemporary.

Whether you appreciate the history of the "Watchmaker's Four" or simply love the balanced look of the dial, a Roman numeral watch is a statement that never goes out of style.

Discover the perfect balance of history and fashion. Shop the Roma Collection