Black dials bring a sharp, contemporary edge to formal watches, and the Tissot Carson Premium Powermatic 80 T122.407.11.051.00 shows how well that works on a classic 40mm dress case. Polished indexes and hands pop against the dark background, making it as legible as it is handsome.

The Carson Premium design is all about refined detail: the double gadroon bezel steps down toward the dial in two polished tiers, catching light from every angle and contrasting nicely with the black dial. Powering the watch is Tissot's Powermatic 80, a Swiss automatic with up to 80 hours of reserve, visible through the sapphire caseback. A sapphire crystal protects the front.

The black dial and steel bracelet combination is a natural match for black-tie events, dark suits and evening wear, but it is just as convincing with a leather jacket. At 10.25mm thick, it never feels bulky.

Tissot Carson Premium black dial, T122.407.11.051.00

• 40mm case of 316L steel, 10.25mm tall, 20mm lugs
• Black dial with polished indexes and date
• Swiss Powermatic 80 automatic movement (80-hour reserve)
• Sapphire crystal; transparent caseback
• Water-resistant to 50 meters
• Stainless steel bracelet, butterfly clasp

Formal by nature, modern in attitude.