Basic Elements › Materials

ORGANIC MATERIALS

Watchmaking makes use of several organic Materials, each bringing distinct properties and appearance. Wood, used in marquetry on the Dial or as External parts (case, dial, hands) for the Case, must be stabilized and treated against moisture before any use, otherwise it may warp or crack; species such as rosewood, maple, or Brazilian rosewood are selected for their density and grain pattern. Some Woods, such as Boxwood, elder pith, or gentian bark, are used for cleaning or Polishing components. Cork, rarer, is prized for its lightness and natural water resistance: coated with a thin layer of wax or resin, it can serve as External parts (case, dial, hands) for a Bracelet / Strap without falling apart.

Leather remains the most widespread organic material, mainly for straps. Its quality depends on the tanning process (vegetable or chrome), the thickness, and the type of skin — calf, alligator, ostrich — each offering different flexibility and lifespan; poorly maintained leather cracks within a few years. Mother of pearl, for its part, comes from the inner layer of shells such as the pearl oyster; its layered aragonite structure creates an optical iridescence that varies with the angle of the light, making it a prized dial material, though delicate to cut without cracking it.

These materials share a common constraint: unlike Metals or Sapphire Glass (crystal), they react to variations in temperature and humidity, which requires specific treatments to ensure their durability over time.

WOOD

In horology, Wood is mainly found in clock cases or in marine chronometer boxes. It is sometimes used as a support during manufacturing and valued for the Polishing of various surfaces.

MOTHER OF PEARL

Mother of pearl is an organic material composed mainly of thin layers of aragonite (a form of calcium carbonate) bound together by an organic matrix. In watchmaking, mother of pearl is highly prized for its natural iridescent shine, unique visual patterns and luxurious appeal, most often found on dials and decorative elements.