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Transform a fine timepiece into a personal heirloom with engraving carried out by hand and machine at our London workshop. From caseback dedications to bracelet monograms, our specialists deliver precision work that respects the architecture of every reference.
Engraving is one of the oldest decorative arts in watchmaking. Where a movement marks time mechanically, engraving marks it personally: a name, a date, a phrase that turns an object into a relic.
Modern watches use materials and finishes that traditional gravers cannot touch without risking damage. Fibre laser engraving is the only method that meets the precision, range and repeatability a fine timepiece deserves, which is why it is the only method we use at our London workshop.
The laser never touches the watch. No pressure on the caseback, no vibration through the movement, no chance of a slipped tool. The watch sits secured in its fixture while only the marked surface receives energy, leaving the rest of the piece exactly as it arrived.
Ceramic bezels, sapphire casebacks, PVD coated steel, brushed titanium, polished gold and platinum. Where traditional gravers risk chipping coatings or fracturing hard surfaces, our fibre laser produces clean, consistent marks across the full range of contemporary watchmaking materials.
Every engraving is digitally proofed and mapped to the geometry of your specific watch before the first pulse is fired. What you approve on screen is what is etched into the metal, line for line, depth for depth, on a single piece or across a matched set.
Four considered steps from initial conversation to the finished piece — each stage signed off with you.
Bring the watch in or send a high-resolution photo and reference number. We discuss surface, technique, font and sentiment, then quote the commission.
A digital mock-up is prepared showing exact placement, scale and typography. No tool touches the metal until you approve the proof in writing.
The watch is dismantled where necessary, the chosen technique applied by the appropriate specialist, and the work inspected under magnification.
The case is cleaned, gaskets are inspected and replaced where touched, water resistance is re-tested and the watch is returned in a Martin Oliva presentation case.
Indicative pricing including VAT. Final quotation issued after consultation and design proof, based on technique, complexity and engraving length.
Prices are inclusive of VAT. Water-resistance recertification included for any caseback engraving. Insured return shipping within the United Kingdom is provided at no additional charge.
Our engravers are qualified across the full range of materials used in modern and vintage watchmaking.
Including Oystersteel and 904L
18k and 22k
Including Everose
18k
950 grade
Grade 2 and 5
Laser only
Laser only
From rings and pendants to luxury timepieces and presentation trophies, our studio undertakes engraving across the full spectrum of fine jewellery and bespoke gifting.
The most classic and most-requested commission in our studio, applied to wedding bands, engagement rings and significant date dedications.
Everyday sentimental pieces with a personal inscription, from heart pendants and name necklaces to military-style dog tags.
A second inscription that frames the photograph or keepsake held inside, in classic monograms or significant dates.
A favoured gift for grooms, fathers and milestone occasions, finished with monograms, dates or bespoke designs.
Practical pieces personalised for everyday carry, or finished with company branding for corporate gifting at scale.
Recognition pieces and presentation gifts for sporting, corporate and ceremonial occasions, finished to the same exacting standard.
Our central specialism: dedications, anniversaries and gift inscriptions on luxury timepieces with water-resistance recertification.
A discreet caseback inscription generally has no impact on resale value, and many collectors view a tasteful dedication as part of a watch's history. Deep visible engraving on the case sides or dial side, however, can reduce value among purist collectors. We always discuss the visibility and tone of any work before proceeding, so the decision is fully informed.
Shallow machine and laser engravings can often be removed by careful polishing, although the affected surface will be slightly thinner afterwards. Deeper hand engraving is generally permanent and cannot be polished out without altering the case geometry. We advise treating all engraving as a long-term commitment, which is why the design proof step exists.
Any work on a case is followed by gasket inspection, replacement where touched, and a full pressure and water-resistance test. The watch is recertified to its original specification before return. Sapphire and bezel laser work generally does not break the case seal, but is still re-tested for assurance.
Yes. We engrave watches from all reputable brands and references, regardless of where they were purchased. Counterfeit watches are not accepted under any circumstances; authentication is part of the consultation.
Our engravers regularly work with Cyrillic, Greek, Hebrew, Arabic, Chinese and Japanese characters, as well as bespoke typographic designs. Submit a vector file or an example image of the desired typography during consultation, and we will produce a faithful proof.
All engraving carries a lifetime workmanship promise: any technical fault in the engraving itself will be corrected at no charge. Any subsequent surface refinishing, polishing, or related work is quoted separately.
Yes — we receive watches from clients across the United Kingdom and internationally. Insured tracked shipping with the appropriate carrier is recommended; we can also provide a courier collection within central London. International clients should contact us in advance for customs guidance.
Most commissions are completed within seven working days from approval of the design proof. Hand-engraved family crests and ornate monograms take longer — typically two to three weeks. Rush services are available for time-sensitive commissions; please flag at consultation.
