Techniques › Decoration & finishing

SATIN FINISH

1. Definition

This is a surface decoration consisting of parallel lines obtained by abrasion. Satin finish can be applied to most components of a watch.

2. Applications

Whether it be the Case, the Bracelet / Strap, the Dial or the hands for the external parts (case, dial, hands), the upper surface of the components of the time-setting mechanism and of winding crown or the outline of the bridges, Satin finish is omnipresent.

3. Eligible Materials

Most Metals can be given a Satin finish, and different types of supports and Abrasives can be used. Abrasive papers and cabrons, stones, lapping pastes, or micromotor grinding wheels are commonly used for Satin finish. The craftsman chooses the grain of the abrasive according to the material to be decorated and the desired result. A coarse grain will produce more pronounced lines and give the surface a matte appearance. A finer grain will produce more delicate lines and a shinier appearance.

Regardless of the type of support and abrasive used, it is important that the abrasive have a perfectly homogeneous and absolutely clean grain, otherwise there is a risk of grooves of irregular depth.

The outline of many components, such as bridges, is frequently satin-finished. This is often referred to as stretching the lines or the flanks. In this case, the difficulty, as with beveling, is to maintain sharp edges (inward or outward) between the different surfaces.