Movement finishing transforms functional components into art. These decorative techniques serve no mechanical purpose—they're pure craftsmanship signaling quality.
Movement Finishing
Côtes de Genève (Geneva Stripes)
Parallel wavy lines on bridges. Most common decorative finish. Quality varies from machine to hand-finished.
Perlage (Circular Graining)
Overlapping circular patterns on base plates. Usually hidden under bridges.
Anglage (Beveling)
Polished chamfers on bridge edges at 45°. Hand-anglage is time-consuming and expensive.
Blued Screws
Screws heated to ~290°C creating blue oxide. Classic hallmark of fine finishing.
Case Finishing
Polishing vs Brushing
Polishing: Mirror-like, dressier, shows scratches. Brushing: Satin texture, sportier, hides scratches.
Zaratsu Polishing
Grand Seiko's signature distortion-free mirror surfaces. Creates hard edges between finishes.
Quality Hierarchy
- Basic: Machine-applied (entry Swiss/Japanese)
- Good: Machine with hand touch-up (mid-tier Swiss)
- Excellent: Primarily hand-finished (premium Swiss, Grand Seiko)
- Exceptional: Entirely hand-finished (haute horlogerie)