Dune watch prop has internet baffled by how it works

The world of Dune is known for being impeccably designed, but this prop has fans completely baffled by how it works.

On the cusp of Dune: Part Two’s release, many fans have recently revisited Denis Villeneuve’s 2021 sci-fi original. And from awkward poems by cast members to questionable popcorn buckets, there’s plenty more for Duneheads to obsess over in the build-up to the long-awaited sequel.

The modern adaptation of Frank Herbert’s novel earned huge praise from the industry and fans alike, with many applauding its spectacular visuals and unparalleled world-building. After all, you don’t win six Oscars (including those for Cinematography and Visual Effects) for nothing.

But a recent prop for Dune: Part Two has caught the attention of fans, and not necessarily in a good way.

Dune fans baffled by watch featured in the movie

Dune fans were confused by the design of a recently revealed watch featured in the movie, with many questioning how exactly you’d be able to tell the time with the device.

The post came from the Hamilton Watch X account, which shared images of the watch that was created in collaboration with the movie’s prop master, Doug Harlocker. They wrote that it was designed to serve as “a watch for another world that defines traditional watch norms.”

Hamilton x Dune: Part Two
At the request of Director Denis Villeneuve, Hamilton worked alongside the film’s prop master, Doug Harlocker, to craft a watch for another world that defies traditional watch norms.
See #DuneMovie, Only in Cinemas #hamiltonwatch @dunemovie pic.twitter.com/wgVHHgtT6h

— Hamilton Watch (@hamiltonwatch) February 19, 2024

There’s no doubt that it looks insanely impressive. But does “traditional watch norms” in this instance include…telling the time? Fans were quick to point this out, wondering if the watch serves any practical purpose at all.

“Them: What time is it? Me, wearing this cool ass watch: No f*cking idea,” wrote one user in response to the post.

“Excuse me, what time is it? *looks at Dune watch* I don’t know,” said another.

“Ok cool… so how do I read it???” one post asked, with another one adding: “Okay, that’s awesome. Now does it tell time… or do anything?”

But even with the unusual layout of the watch (including the lack of a watch face), there were other comments that clearly proved fans would be willing to shell out for the accessory. …Even if it was completely unless in the real world.

“So uh, if you made something like this available to buy, I think people would buy it!” one user said.

“How much? HOW MUCH?????? Take my money NOW!!!!!” another agreed.

With Dune: Part Two hitting theaters on March 1, we won’t have long to wait before we’ll be able to see this unusual prop in action. If we’re lucky, we might even find out how it really works.