Hard Enamel

Venetian Hard Enamel vs. English Soft Enamel Dials: Part 6 – Distinguishing Soft Enamel and Glass Enamel Dials

By Nathan Moore

During the early introduction of soft enamel dials to the broader watch market in the 1870s and 1880s, the term “soft enamel” was used to describe them, logically contrasting the “hard enamel” term used to describe standard dials. As the demand for the new dials...

Catalogs & Resources , Dials , Elgin , History , Production

Venetian Hard Enamel vs. English Soft Enamel Dials: Part 5 – Early Market Pricing of Soft Glass Enamel Dials

By Nathan Moore

Pictured: 1882 Elgin Material Catalog Showing Hard vs. Soft Enamel Dial Pricing [Catalog Scans Courtesy of Rick Hufnagel] Innovative and novel products commonly demand a premium when first introduced to.

Dials , Factories , Production

Venetian Hard Enamel vs. English Soft Enamel Dials: Part 4 – Primary Differences in Production

By Nathan Moore

The process of manufacturing Venetian hard enamel dials is very similar to manufacturing English soft glass enamel dials. In both instances, hard enamel is utilized for the backs of the.

Venetian Hard Enamel vs. English Soft Enamel Dials: Part 1

By Nathan Moore

In Dials , History , Waltham

Pictured: 18-Size Hard Enamel Dial by the Elgin National Watch Company, showcasing the slightly diffused reflection of direct light When the early American watch industry was sparked in the 1850s, the process of making enamel dials proved to be a challenge. Early attempts were unsuccessful,...