What does “Enamel” mean?

An enamel dial is made by fusing powdered glass onto a metal base at high temperature. The process is repeated in layers to build up colour and smoothness. Fired enamel, often called grand feu enamel, has a deep, glassy look and colour that stays stable over time, unlike some painted or printed finishes.

Enamel dials are a sign of traditional craftsmanship and are mainly found on dress watches and high-end pieces. Making them is slow and many dials are lost during firing, which contributes to their cost. For buyers, the main concern is damage: enamel can crack or chip if the watch is dropped, and hairline cracks are hard to repair. Dealers inspect enamel dials closely under magnification and describe any flaws. Cloisonné and champlevé are decorative enamel techniques that create pictures or patterns, often seen on artistic pieces.

Typical usage: “White grand feu enamel dial, no hairlines or chips, glossy and even.” A buyer might ask for close-up images under bright light to confirm there are no hairline cracks.