Enameller

Enamel is made from silica, feldspar and kaolin which have been crushed into a powder then combined with metal oxides to obtain the required colour. The enameller mixes this powder with oil or water, depending how it will be applied to a polished base in copper, gold or silver. In certain cases gold paillons are applied to the base layers to produce a shimmering pattern underneath the enamel. Each successive layer of enamel is fired at high temperature. Once the enamel has fused to the metal, it is unalterable. A watch dial can be embellished with enamelled patterns, portraits or scenes using champlevé, cloisonné, cloisonné à jour or miniature painting techniques.