The Timepiece Journal

The surface of a fine watch is as engineered as its movement. This guide covers PVD ion plating, high-tech rare earth steel, tantalum plating, and nanotechnology — the four most significant surface treatment processes in modern watchmaking.

A miniature painted enamel watch dial can cost more than a car. Once you understand what goes into making one — the firings, the failures, the irreplaceable artists — the price makes perfect sense.

Rolex uses 904L. Everyone else uses 316L. But what does that actually mean — and does it matter? A clear, honest comparison of the two most important stainless steels in watchmaking.