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PAINTED DIALS

Painted dials became widely established during the 20^th century. Today, painted dials can be found in all price ranges.

The manufacture of a painted Dial begins with its base, mainly made of Brass in this case. The Dial plate can be Stamped or machined. The various openings (windows, offset counters, etc.) and the various drillings (hand shaft holeshands, possible feet for the Applied markers) are generally carried out during the same machining operation. Stamping production may allow the relief features of the Dial to be worked (basin-shaped counters, chapter rings, or even Index (hour marker) or numerals) and/or its decoration (geometric, figurative patterns, etc.).

Milling offers the same possibilities and its operations are generally performed in a single cycle. The Dial feet are then soldered. This step can be carried out manually, using a machine that perfectly positions and solders the foot, or, on an industrial scale, in a fully automated way.

The Dial base then receives its finishes. Sandblasting, Shot blasting (micro bead blasting), Satin finish, Circling, Sunburst finish, Polishing, Beveling / Angling, or even Engraving or Geneva stripes, the entire range of decorations can be found there individually or in combination, and can be produced by hand or industrially.

Before the dial is painted, it generally undergoes a galvanic treatment (Rhodium plating or Gilding) to provide a uniform base color and prevent the risk of oxidation. The paint is sprayed by hand or using automated machinery. For optimal cleanliness, painting is most often carried out in booths located in controlled-atmosphere areas (dry, filtered air, slight overpressure, etc.). Once dry, a protective varnish (against oxidation, UV, etc.), commonly known as zapon, is applied. Depending on the zapon chosen, the dial will have a matte or glossy finish. Once the zapon is dry, any decals can be applied, along with any Applied markers (numerals, Index (hour marker), brand name, logo, etc.).