A black dial gives any dress watch a sharper, more modern edge, and the Tissot Carson Premium Automatic Lady T122.207.11.051.00 proves it. Against the polished steel of a 30mm case, the deep black face looks graphic and confident, a refreshing alternative to the silver and mother-of-pearl dials that dominate women's watches.

Contrast is the key. Polished indexes and fine hands stand out crisply on the dark background for excellent legibility, while the Carson Premium's double gadroon bezel adds a ring of light around the edge. Behind the scenes, a Swiss ETA 2671 automatic caliber keeps the watch running on wrist motion alone, and the open caseback lets you admire it. Sapphire crystal, domed and antireflective, protects the dial.

The steel bracelet's alternating satin and polished links match the case finish, and a push-button butterfly clasp keeps the line clean. Wear it with monochrome outfits, crisp white shirts or evening black.

Black-dial Carson Premium Lady T122.207.11.051.00

• Size: 30mm wide, 9.48mm thick, lugs 15mm
• Material: 316L stainless steel case and bracelet
• Dial: black with polished indexes and a date
• Caliber: ETA 2671, Swiss self-winding
• Crystal: sapphire, domed with antireflective treatment
• Back: sapphire display caseback
• Water resistance: 50 meters

Sleek, graphic and mechanical, a dress watch with attitude.