Techniques › Decoration & finishes

CIRCLING

1. Definition

Circling is a decoration obtained by circular abrasion of a surface. The effect is satin and matte, comparable to satin finish. Unlike satin finish, whose lines are parallel, circling draws concentric circles. This decoration is traditionally applied to circular components, whether flat, convex or concave.

2. Components concerned

Circling is applied to components of all sizes, from the case to the movement. In the case, it is frequently found on the inside or outside of the case back, on the bezel, or even on the crown. On the dial, it can texture the main surface or an applied counter. In the movement, it traditionally decorates the wheel plates of the finishing Train (wheel train) or of the hour wheel.

3. Manual method

The Horologist (watchmaker) first precisely centers the Abrasive on the component’s Axis of rotation. A Lathe provides an ideal support for this operation. On a bench Lathe, the Abrasive rotates in the headstock or remains fixed in the tailstock. However, the most common method uses a sensitive Drill, whose spindle drives the Abrasive in rotation.

This approach sometimes allows a face to be decorated right after machining, without any later reworking of the component.

4. Semi-industrial and industrial method

In production, many machines dedicated to decoration can perform circling. Their versatility and degree of automation vary according to the quality and volumes sought. A distinction is made between decorative circling, carried out after the component has been machined, and circling obtained directly through fine machining, for example on a CNC machining center or on an automatic lathe.