In their search for exclusive and enduring designs, master watchmakers focus a great deal of their talent into experimenting with different materials and technologies that will fulfil
the functional and aesthetic needs of the watch, all in the path to iconic timepieces. Therefore, classic materials for case manufacture, such as steel, gold or titanium have come
together with a composite that has both the most refined aesthetic and extreme durability: ceramic.
High tech ceramic to manufacture unique timepieces
In the realm of fine watchmaking, they use ceramic that has been developed specifically for engineering. It is a composite created using purer materials and more complex processes than
other ceramics, which is the reason for its magnificent qualities. The base materials are polycrystalline mineral powders, which are mixed with other auxiliary materials to create a homogeneous
mass. After shaping it, it is synthesised at very high temperatures. During this process, the auxiliary materials volatilise, leaving highly stable ceramic bodies composed of microscopic grains.
The production of ceramic watches is an engineering masterpiece of great difficulty that requires immense expertise. Unlike metals, the properties of ceramics do not remain
unchanged throughout the process, but each stage influences the end product: every variation can cause significant differences. The process is also made more demanding by the loss
of volume undergone by the ceramic during firing, a characteristic that must be taken into account for the pieces to fit together correctly.
Ceramic is a very interesting choice in watchmaking because it has unique qualities that make it stand out from other materials. In addition to being lighter and stronger than steel,
it is hypoallergenic, as well as having an extremely soft and pleasant velvety feel. It is also completely scratch-resistant, which, combined with its special shine, gives
ceramic watches that timeless, brand-new look.
Ceramic watches of the most influential brands
There are many firms that have opted for ceramics to make their pieces, achieving, in every case, exclusive watches of the highest quality that adapt this material to their own
style and savoir faire.
Hublot is renowned for its precision and the vibrant colours it achieves in its timepiece ceramics. This is the case with two of the brand’s latest editions: the sophisticated
Hublot Big Bang Integrated with a beige ceramic case and bracelet, and the spectacular Hublot Big Bang Integrated Titanium Ceramic, which masterfully combines the two materials.
The pioneering Swiss watchmaker Zenith is committed to creating reference pieces with this material. A ceramic watch such as the Zenith Pilot with an undulating dial shows at
first glance its minimalist lines, which the brand combines with its emblematic movement, an absolute icon in haute horology. We also highlight the limited edition Defy Chroma II,
a full-colour version of the brand's classic El Primero 21 with a black ceramic case and movement visible through the dial.
In 2000, CHANEL launched its iconic J12 watch, created using high-strength ceramic with an avant-garde approach that made it possible to produce a deep black hue that perfectly
embodies the brand's allure. Three years later, it introduced its ceramic watch in an immaculate white that soon became a trend.
As a pioneer in experimenting with this material, IWC Shaffhausen introduced the world's first ceramic watch, the Da Vinci Perpetual Calendar, in 1986. Since then, the company has
continued to innovate and experiment with ceramic materials that give its pieces pure functionality and timelessness, as we can see in its iconic aviator watches with black ceramic cases in
the Top Gun films.
Omega's signature diver watches are icons in ocean navigation, offering exceptional water resistance and the highest level of precision. The ceramic itself, found in the Seamaster Diver 300M,
gives the timepiece a unique character and style.
Ceramic watches have become an
undisputed modern classic. If you are considering one of these exquisite pieces, visit us in our
shops
in Mallorca and we can give you some advice on how to choose the perfect model. We are waiting for you!
