For more than a century, watch dials have been the face of horology. They are the part of the watch that greets the eye, sets the tone of design, and ultimately defines the character of the piece. A finely restored dial is not only a matter of accuracy but of artistry. At our workshop, we have dedicated ourselves to preserving this tradition with the highest level of craftsmanship available today.
Our collection of dies is among the most extensive in the world. With more than 40,000 print dies and over 100,000 name dies, our catalog is a living archive of watchmaking history. We maintain dies for nearly every major American brand—Hamilton, Elgin, Bulova, Gruen, Benrus, Waltham, Illinois, Longines, and Wittnauer—as well as a wide selection of Swiss brands, including Rolex, TAG Heuer, Tudor, Patek Philippe, Omega, and many others. This archive allows us to recreate, with extraordinary faithfulness, the artistry of original dials spanning decades of watchmaking.
When an exact die does not exist, our expertise ensures that the closest possible match is found. We involve our clients in this process, seeking approval before proceeding, because we understand that every dial carries not only technical detail but also sentimental value. For collectors and connoisseurs who require absolute precision in fonts, name placements, or brand-specific typography, we offer factory die plate work and custom die production. Every project is approached with the same guiding principle: respect for the original watchmaker’s vision, coupled with the skill to breathe new life into a dial that may be decades, or even a century, old.
We believe every dial tells a story, and every story deserves careful consideration. For that reason, our pricing is determined on a project-by-project basis, reflecting the complexity of the work required. A dial with straightforward printing may need only standard refinishing, while a dial with multiple colors, layered textures, or rare fonts may involve more intricate work and custom die production.
When additional die work is required, we consult directly with our clients, explaining the process, outlining the steps involved, and providing a tailored estimate. Transparency is central to our practice: you will always know what to expect, and we will only proceed once we have your approval.
We are currently investing in advanced in-house die production, which will allow us to take even greater control of the process, shorten turnaround times, and ensure that the dies we create remain in our catalog for future generations of collectors. This investment reflects our long-term commitment to keeping the art of dial refinishing alive and evolving.
Dial refinishing is more than a technical procedure—it is a craft that requires patience, precision, and a reverence for detail. Each dial passes through multiple stages, from cleaning and preparation, to surface treatment, to the careful application of fonts, logos, and markers. Our artisans work with the same discipline and pride that defined the great watch factories of the past.
We see ourselves as guardians of horological heritage. Many of the dials we receive belong to watches handed down through families, often carrying deep personal meaning. Others belong to collectors who have dedicated their lives to preserving watch history. In every case, our role is to honor the history embedded in the dial, while ensuring the watch can be enjoyed and appreciated for decades to come.
We welcome new clients—whether you are a collector seeking to preserve a treasured piece, a jeweler restoring a watch for a customer, or a dealer preparing a piece for sale. Our goal is always the same: to exceed your expectations.
To help us serve you best, we ask that you share a little about yourself when opening an account. Knowing whether you are a private collector, a retailer, or a trade professional allows us to tailor our communication, provide the right level of detail, and anticipate your needs.
The refinishing process typically takes 2–6 weeks, depending on the complexity of the dial and the type of work required. While many projects fall within this timeframe, some may take longer due to the specialized nature of the work. If you have a specific deadline—perhaps a special occasion or a client delivery date—we encourage you to let us know. We will do everything possible to accommodate your request.
Every dial we receive undergoes a meticulous series of steps. It begins with a careful examination of the dial to assess its condition, determine the original printing method, and evaluate any unique features. Once the plan of action is set, the dial is gently prepared, ensuring that any damage or aging is addressed without compromising the integrity of the piece.
Printing is performed using our extensive catalog of dies. Each die represents countless hours of horological history—typography, logos, numerals, and layouts that were once standard in the great watch factories. For collectors who request absolute fidelity, we match not only the design but also the subtle nuances of ink thickness, spacing, and texture. This is what sets our refinishing apart: it is not simply a reproduction, but a respectful continuation of the original maker’s work.
For projects requiring new die creation, we collaborate with skilled engravers and artisans who specialize in this demanding craft. Every new die added to our archive expands our ability to serve the collector community and preserve the legacy of watch design.
Because of the delicate nature of our work, we accept dials only and cannot receive complete watches. We recommend working with a trusted watchmaker or jeweler to safely remove the dial. Once removed, the dial should be carefully padded and packaged, then shipped with a tracking number to ensure safe arrival.
We understand that sending a valuable or sentimental watch dial can be nerve-wracking. Our team treats every dial with the utmost respect and care from the moment it arrives. Throughout the process, we maintain clear communication, so you always know the status of your project.
At its core, our mission is about more than refinishing. It is about stewardship—preserving the artistry, the legacy, and the beauty of watches that have stood the test of time. Each dial we refinish represents a bridge between the past and the future, ensuring that these pieces of history continue to be worn, admired, and cherished.
We are proud to serve collectors, jewelers, and enthusiasts who share our passion. As technology evolves, our investment in new tools and equipment ensures that the tradition of fine dial refinishing not only survives but thrives in the modern era.
When you choose us, you are choosing more than a service. You are choosing a partner in preservation, a team that understands the value of heritage, and artisans who approach each dial with humility, respect, and skill.
In the world of horology, the dial is the soul of the watch. Our role is to give that soul the clarity, beauty, and dignity it deserves.
To Request a Quote, or contact us about a new project, kindly email us: hello@wellesleydesign.com