Decoding the mystery: Why is the Roman number 4 on genuine wristwatches `deliberately` written incorrectly?

For those who are passionate about or have the hobby of collecting wristwatches, the Roman numeral 4 symbol on the watch face is always considered a mystery.

Reasons in mythology

In ancient Rome, it was quite common to write the number 4 as IIII instead of IV.

This led to people abstaining from using the symbol `IV` because according to the Latin spelling, Jupiter’s full name is IVPOTER.

Symmetry of the numbers on the watch face

Reputable watch brands always take great care of the aesthetics of their products.

*4 numbers starting with I include: I, II, III, IIII

*4 numbers starting with V include: V, VI, VII, VIII

*4 numbers starting with X include: IX, X, XI, XII

In terms of convenience for users, the number IV is often confused with the number VI, so the notation IIII will limit unnecessary confusion.

In addition, when using symbol IIII, the watch face will be divided into two halves and each half will have a total of 14 characters (calculated according to the dashes).

Historical anecdote about King Louis XIV of France

Besides seemingly scientific explanations stemming from language, aesthetics, symmetry, etc., symbol IIII is also associated with the anecdote about King Louis XIV’s watch.

Legend has it that during the reign of King Louis XIV (1638-1715), France was the country with the most advanced watchmaking technology in the world.

However, the French king did not seem very interested. He did not agree with the artists’ opinion, so he requested that this symbol be corrected.