Laser Marking Watch Parts

See how you can laser mark gold, titanium, stainless steel or other valuable metals.

The watch-making industry utilises laser marking processes for part identification and traceability, as well as laser engraving for aesthetic design purposes. In the past, a watchmaker may have mechanically engraved or etched his work by hand. Today, laser machines are the obvious choice for high-quality and intricate work. Part numbers, serial numbers and charge labelling, as well as data matrix codes, decretive logos and graphics are all examples of applications for watch parts. The laser is the perfect tool due to its ability to mark the smallest and most delicate designs quickly and efficiently.

Suitable Materials for Laser Engraving & Laser Marking:

Stainless Steel
Titanium
Ceramics
Brass
Gold & Other Precious Metals
Leather
Silicone & Elastomers for Seals
Sapphire Glass

Impressions

clock bezel laser engraved — laser engraved bezel of a watch

wooden clockwork prototype laser cut — Laser cut prototype of a wooden clock work gear

clockwork cog laser cut — Laser cut acrylic prototype of a clock work gear-wheel

Application Examples for Laser Processing Watch Parts

There are many small details that are prevalent to clockwork prototype construction. A very wide variety of materials are used, and the individual parts that are manufactured are constantly changing and improving. Sometimes, materials, which are uncommon for watchmakers (wood and acrylic) need to be processed alongside the typical metal engravings. Here, Trotec offers the perfect solution – flatbed lasers in the Speedy Flexx range. These machines use two laser sources (Fiber and CO2) at the same time, so marking any material becomes quick and simple.

Clockwork Components
Oscillation Weights
Bezels
Crowns
Housings
Watch Cases
Dials
Leather Wristbands
Silicone & Elastomers

“What are the benefits of laser technology for engraving and marking watch parts?”

Unbeatable laser marking flexibility.

Laser marking machines offer unique flexibility while working, allowing the user to process different applications, sizes and clock parts at any time, while providing the ability to produce single pieces or large batches. The interface/ERP systems (such as SAP) ensure the highest productivity, and SpeedMark laser software can process variable, corresponding data quickly and easily. This means there will always be shorter running times and little waste. You can also use our camera system (SpeedMark Vision) for reliable, accurate mark-positioning.

Function & Advantages of Laser Technology:

Process Flexible Data

It is easy to mark dynamic content without needing to refit or change tools

Advantages of a Trotec laser

Intelligent and intuitive laser marking software, SpeedMark, can easily process data from existing ERP systems and all dynamic contents in codes

Non-Contact Material Processing

There is no need to tightly clamp or fixate materials
Save time and produce consistently good results

Advantages of a Trotec laser

Broad product portfolio with a suitable laser system for any requirement
High accuracy of laser marking due to camera-supported positioning

Versatile Applications

Process many kinds of material with a laser machine, including wood, acrylic, leather and metal

Advantages of a Trotec laser

Flexx technology with 2 laser sources (CO2 & Fiber laser) in one laser machine

Quick Marking, Fast Cycle Times

Very fast marking, thanks to Galvo technology

Advantages of a Trotec laser

Maintenance-free Galvo Fiber lasers for fast marking and minimal service

Quick Marking, More Throughput

Mark variable contents extremely quickly (serial numbers)
Refitting and tool changing is rendered unnecessary

Advantages of a Trotec laser

Intelligent and intuitive marking software = easy operation
SpeedMark Vision – Smart Adjust = quick and smart component positioning
Integration of contents from ERP data files

Permanent Markings

Laser marking is permanent, as well as resistant to abrasions, heat and acid
This is particularly important for traceability and quality assurance

Advantages of a Trotec laser

Product portfolio and matching Fiber laser systems for any requirements – Flatbed system with a working surface up to 726 x 432mm
Galvo work stations, working surfaces up to 620 x 315mm
OEM Galvo Fiber laser, easy integration into existing production lines
Specialty and custom systems according to customer requirements

Fine Tool

Tiny geometries can be accurately and precisely marked
Marking processes can be combined to clean the material after it’s finished processing, or even to provide a higher contrast (data matrix codes)

Advantages of a Trotec laser

Perfect optics and the best beam quality thanks to superior components
Camera-based component positioning for accuracy and ease of use

Diverse Design Possibilities

You can create almost any design with a laser – the sky is your only limit!
Even 1-point fonts and tiny geometries are clearly legible
You have freedom and flexibility when designing logos, graphics, barcodes and serial numbers
Photos can be applied quickly and easily