After the intricate enamelling process is complete, we finish our dials with the traditional method of pad printing. Pad printing transfers a 2D image onto a 3D object, and it has been used by watchmakers for decades. Its current form became widespread during the mid-20th century, with the introduction of silicone pads. Previously, soft bags of gelatine were used, but this process was time-consuming and produced inconsistent results.

Pad printers are now fully automated and often powered by hydraulics. Modern silicone enables even fine lines to be transferred, including on uneven surfaces. To minimise chipping and flaking, we use resin-based inks, similar to those found on old whisky bottles, renowned for passing the test of time. 

The ink is poured onto a printing plate (also known as a cliché) that has been engraved with the dial design, to the remarkably minuscule depth of 24 microns (0.024mm). Watchmakers often use metal clichés, but we’ve found a ceramic plate to be more durable and produce a cleaner print. A hydraulic-powered arm disperses the ink across the plate and into the engraved design, then scrapes away the excess. A silicone pad picks up the inked design, which can then be transferred onto the enamelled dial.

Because of the handmade nature of enamel, each dial is unique in shape and size. This means we have to manually position each dial to ensure the design lands in the correct position. It’s an intricate process and one that is unnecessary for objects with uniform dimensions, such as machined metal dials.

If left to dry naturally, the ink would take up to two days to set. To speed up this process and avoid smudging, we finish the dial by curing in our kiln. With temperatures of up to 140°C, it is complete in just 40 minutes. The result: impeccably crisp numerals that are, quite literally, outstanding.