How do watch manufacturers gold-plate their watches?

Watch manufacturers use a variety of electroplating techniques to apply a thin layer of metal to watch components such as cases, bracelets, or other metal parts. Electroplating is done to enhance the watch's appearance, durability, and corrosion resistance. The plating methods most commonly used by watch manufacturers include the following:

1. Electroplating: Electroplating is a widely used technique in which a thin layer of metal is deposited onto a substrate using an electrolytic process. The watch part to be plated is immersed in an electrolyte solution containing metal ions of the desired plated material. Then apply direct current to make the metal ions migrate and attach to the surface of the element to form a plating layer. Common metals used for watch plating include gold, silver, rhodium, and rose gold.

2. PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) Coating: PVD is a vacuum-based electroplating technique that involves evaporating solid metal at high temperature and low pressure. The vaporized metal atoms then condense on the surface of the watch components, forming a thin and durable coating. PVD coating is available in various colors and finishes including gold, black, rose gold, and bronze. It is commonly used on watch cases, bezels, and bracelets.

3. DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) Coating: DLC coating is a PVD coating that involves depositing a layer of carbon-based material on watch components. It provides a hard and scratch-resistant black coating and is typically used on the case, bezel, or clasp. DLC coatings are known for their high wear resistance and low friction properties.

4. Ion Plating: Ion plating, also known as sputtering, is a PVD variant that involves bombarding a metal target with high-energy ions in a vacuum chamber. Metal atoms are ejected from the target and then deposit on the watch component, forming a thin coating. Ion plating allows precise control of coating thickness and can produce a variety of colors and finishes.

The exact plating method used by watch manufacturers can vary depending on factors such as the desired look, durability requirements, and budgetary constraints. The electroplating process is usually performed by a dedicated facility or supplier with expertise in applying high-quality and consistent coatings to watch components. In making watches, we will carry out personalized operations according to the actual needs of customers. If you need to customize watches, please get in touch with us.