I'm trying to get a handle on the enamel dial industry in Switzerland, relative to many of the well-known brands. I understand that Donze Cadrans is owned by Nardin, but also does dials for Patek? And recently, Omega did a limited run of enamel-dialed Tresors. Were these done in-house, or by a different firm? Any insights much appreciated. Thanks.
I can't speak for Omega, but I know JLC does their enamel dials (and cases) in house. Not Swiss, but GO had some dials done by the Meissen factory, complete with crossed swords markings. I would be surprised if the Swatch group did not have some arm that was able to do enamel dials...
Ww1 watches got me into watch collecting though they are not good daily wears. When buying looks for cracks in the dial it is SO expensive to fix cracked dials that unless it is an Omega or similar don't waste your money fixing it unless you love it! You want to buys watches of the era in person usually. I have had watches broken from how rough they are with packages. Watches of the era break easily and hard to find parts. Though in 1866 a patent was filed for waterproof case they are not shock or water resistant. On the up the dials and movements can be extremely beautiful here is some good enameldials from different ranges from Elgin to Rolex
This March 2017 NY Times article suggests that they do. In Watches, Enamel Comes Back Into Style https://www.nytimes.com/2017/03/23/fashion/watches-enamel-ulysse-nardin.html
Some additional insight: In-Depth The Famed Enamel Dials Of The Patek Philippe Ref. 2526, And A Visit To The Factory Where They're Trying Tirelessly To Replicate Them https://www.hodinkee.com/articles/patek-philippe-2526-enamel-dial-donze-cadrans HOW DO THEY MAKE IT: GRAND FEU ENAMEL DIALS FROM DONZÉ CADRANS https://www.deployant.com/donze-cardans-make-grand-feu-enamel-dial/
Kari Voutilainen’s dial manufacturing factory, Comblémine makes Enamel dials for RGM. There is a great video on dial manufacture on RGM website. Here are mine with my Longines 13.33 tossed in. I'm sure there are more Enamel dials in my future.
In the Swatch group of brands (owner of Omega), Jaquet Droz has an entire series of enamel faced watches. Both classic and highly artistic styling. These are all made in house.
They have Tonneau model with enamel dial now, SARX051. Have been trying to buy only vintage but am sorely tempted.
Yes the Tonneau is fantastic looking. I wanted to have the original model as it fits with the companion urushi model. I am half vintage and half modern, certain complications or materials are just not available or affordable