Types of engraving on watches

2024 Author: Priscilla Miln | [email protected]. Last modified: 2024-01-01 17:06

Watches have always been considered a universal gift. Hundreds of manufacturers, thousands of models for both women and men, allow you to choose the most suitable option. However, everyone wants to make their present special, unique, unforgettable. If engraved on the watch, it will become a valuable reminder of an important date. For this, the technique of drawing a pattern on metal products was invented.

CO2 laser engraving

The technique of applying symbols using laser engravers CO_{2 is quite common lately. With the help of the production of infrared long radiation by split molecules of carbon dioxide, inscriptions, drawings and any other objects can be applied to the surface of the watch. Although, in principle, this method is perfect for decorating non-metallic materials. Engrave plastic, wood, glass, stone, leather and ceramics.}

Some CO laser engravers_{2cannot engrave watches made frompure metal. To do this, a special coating is preliminarily applied to the surface of the watch - enameled brass or anodized aluminum. The burnt-out inscription is thin and neat, requiring no additional processing and polishing.}

Fiber laser engraving

This technique is very different from traditional laser engraving. The inscription is applied using fiber light guides that create a powerful and thin light beam. This type of laser equipment uses half the power and lasts much longer than CO_{2-installation. Also, the fiber laser is distinguished by the miniature size of the laser circle, as well as a more concentric thin beam. It can even make microscopic markings.}

For craftsmen working with fiber lasers, wrist watch engraving is done more accurately, jewelry. Due to the fact that more powerful beams are used in this technique, it is possible to perform not only burning, but also evaporation, roasting and welding of metal. You can even apply a picture or inscription on some types of ceramics and plastic.

Mechanical engraving

The most complex and therefore the least common type of engraving, which is produced by a sharply sharpened rotating cutter by cutting the material. The most popular variety is mechanical diamond engraving. When writing on the surface of the watch, the master uses a special diamond tip. AtThis engraving on the watch - texts, drawings, symbols - is really unique, inimitable.

The result of the work of a specialist in this particular technique depends on quality equipment and a good set of cutters. Even the most experienced and talented engraver will not get the job done without the right equipment. Bits come in a variety of sizes:

• small - for applying small text;
• large - for engraving large items.

Stencils are not used to perform this type of work, that is, each new inscription on the watch is unique.

Sandblasting

Sandblasting or abrasive processing is a marking method based on damage to the material being processed by sand or abrasive powder. The working material is pre-sprayed by the air flow from the abrasive blasting apparatus. As soon as the abrasive powder comes into contact with the treated surface, the surface layer is destroyed and the so-called matting is formed. The master creates various symbols and signs by manually adjusting the pressure, as well as manipulating the size (grain) of the sand.

The most important element of sandblasting is a special stencil. It is pre-made from photoresist or vinyl. Engraving on watches in this way is impossible without a stencil. To make the required layout with the given text, the master manually or on a plotter cuts it out on vinyl of different widths. This process is not fast, but it allows you to subsequently do a lot of the sameengravings in a row. The engraved text itself looks quite interesting. No wonder there are more and more master engravers of sandblasting.

Laser sublimation

Laser sublimation engraving is used to color metal with multi-colored images. To apply them you need:

• special color printer;
• cartridges for sublimation;
• sublimation paper;
• sublimation metal or heat press.

First, the master prints the image necessary for the customer - transfer, places it on top of the product. Under the influence of high temperature, the paint will become gaseous and color the product.

To engrave inscriptions on watches with this method, a special coating must be applied to them. The application process is laborious and expensive, but the result is a full-color image. The master engraver can create real color masterpieces on the surface of the watch. Such products are considered the most valuable, although they are quite expensive.