Guilloche art in the watch industry

Guilloche art (also called engine-turning) is a decorative geometric pattern generated by a specific engraving method that is widely used on watch dials or cases, especially on the dials of various high-end watch models. This sophisticated technology dates back to the 1500s when it was performed on softer materials like wood and ivory, but in the 1700s, the process was applied to metals. By the late 18th century, watchmakers started to experiment with the technique on dials and pocket watch cases. Guilloche motifs are very small and are meticulously repeated on the surface of the decorated object. The art of guilloche on watch dials is greatly appreciated and regarded because it comprises a complicated procedure that demands a great deal of patience, concentration and dexterous hands of talented guillocheur. Therefore, timepieces with guilloche dials are eye-catching and tend to provide a nice backdrop for the features and complexity that are being showcased. Rather than presenting a dial with a plain background, ETIEN uses CNC engine-turned guilloche technology to create a beautiful visual layout by decorating the dial with repeated twisted patterns.  

The aesthetics of enamel dials for watchmaking

Enamel dial art is nearly as old as watchmaking itself, dating back millennia. Enamel is thought to be the best way to make the most beautiful watch dials in the world. Because it is a famous fussy material that requires a high level of ability to work with and master. Grand feu enamel is a type of glass that contains a base of mostly silica and then emerges a wide range of shades and hues as other materials are added. There are many difficult and time-consuming steps that go into making an enamel dial. Once the enamel is applied, the craftsmen must polish, drill and do other finishes. Our emaille à froid (cold enamel) technique follows the similar steps as traditional enamel. After processing, the enamel becomes a hard-wearing material and takes on a vivid color that never fades. Thus, enamel dials are usually reserved for exclusive, high-end luxury watches.  

ETIEN wristwatch: the perfect combination of guilloche and enamel dials

Our timepiece is the perfect combination of two ancient techniques: Guilloche and enameling. The designs were all handmade through a technique known as Flinqué enamel. Peter Carl Faberge, one of history's most famous jewelers, was a known practitioner of this method. We create Etien wristwatches that are inspired by Faberge eggs, which are his most well-known works, including the legendary series of 50 Imperial Easter eggs created for the Russian Imperial family from 1885 to 1916. For these two types of production, the use of translucent enamels will be preferred in order to highlight the guilloche patterns beneath the enamel layers. Moreover, with exposure to light, the sapphire glass glistens showcasing the true beauty on your hands. 

In the ETIEN wristwatch, a fascinating blend of culture and modern technology come alive. If you're looking for a one-of-a-kind, fashionable, and high-quality watch, please take a few minutes to look into our watch products.