A two-dimensional monochrome bit face display has a luminance resolution that is equal to or higher than that of a CRT monitor. In one implementation, a two-dimensional monochrome bit face display has a bit face in which each pixel is constituted by m sub-pixels and neutral density filters mounted on the m sub-pixels of a respective pixel have light transmittances proportional to values ⁿ where n is an integer. In another implementation, mask filters are mounted on the m sub-pixels and have windows with light transmittances that are proportional to values ⁿ. Alternatively, areas of the m sub-pixels are set in the same proportion. The luminance of each sub-pixel is electronically controlled to improve the luminance resolution of the bit face display.