BigFatPauli
1899
Printing text on sapphire is certainly possible.
Printing sapphire , as far as I know, isn't. There's a big difference. The complexity with the finish on the MB&F isn't from the printing, it's from the curved lacquer, which isn't "printable" but has to be made layer by layer.
The giant dome crystal used in the LM's is made from a solid chuck of sapphire that is then polished down to the correct shape. Given that sapphire is a 9 on the wicker scale, it's an extremely difficult process.
Floating marker !
I was told to have the marker floating … they had 8 layers of translucent lacquer on the white lacquer before he stam printed marker ! ...
Very cool watch, is it MB&F?
That effect is really outstanding, I am surprised other watchmakers have not done something similar as it is so brilliant
Fantastic craftmanship
but could someone execute this at a fraction of the cost with a printed domed sapphire plate?
aren't some producers printing their indices on the backside of the normal sapphire crystal?
I am under the impression (pardon the punt) that Grand Seiko/Credor has done it in the past
Printing text on sapphire is certainly possible.
Printing sapphire , as far as I know, isn't. There's a big difference. The complexity with the finish on the MB&F isn't from the printing, it's from the curved lacquer, which isn't "printable" but has to be made layer by layer. The giant dome crystal ...
Ah. Yes, that is totally possible.
The traditional method is with a balloon. You can read about the process here: quillandpad.com
It’s subtle
Since the dial is tiny … the suspended center front balance wheel stole the show