Creating an enamel watch dial is a high-risk art. Enameling is a technique in which colored powdered glass is applied to a metal plate. The surface is then heated to a temperature high enough to cause the powdered glass to melt and form a new surface. The Grand Feu technique ups the stakes. It involves meticulously coating a watch dial with successive layers of enamel. Once a layer is ready, the dial is heated at extremely high temperatures, ranging from 1472-1652°F (800-900°C). The repeated baking of each individual layer ensures a uniquely crisp aesthetic while permanently setting the enamel. Using high heat to create these beautiful dials also poses a risk. Each time it is re-fired, the danger of cracking, melting, or burning increases. The track and numerals are also baked into the surface. With great risk comes great reward: the appearance of a real glass enamel dial is unmistakable. It has depth and beauty in the hand made surface that draws you in.

Being able to have real Glass Enamel to go with our hand made Guilloché is very satisfying. We continue to bring true art to our watchmaking.

Roland Murphy