Sink (setting recess)

In watchmaking, the sink (setting recess) refers to the opening made in a component to allow another element to be seen or to pass through. The term is used in particular for the Dial and the External parts (case, dial, hands): a dial sink (setting recess) is an opening (Aperture / Window) that reveals a display element — date, phase of the moon, small seconds, or a part of the Movement in the case of a skeleton or openworked dial. By extension, the term sink (setting recess) is also used for any functional notch intended to clear the passage of a Hand, a rod or a stud. Creating a sink (setting recess) requires precision: its edges are often chamfered, polished or fitted with an applied surround to refine the aesthetics and conceal the thickness of the material. When well designed, a sink (setting recess) improves legibility and highlights a Complication while preserving the sturdiness of the piece. The size, shape and position of the sinks (setting recesses) fully contribute to the style of a dial and to the visual balance of the watch.