As early as 1974 our lasers have been used for drilling of rubies as bearings for high quality mechanical watches and short thereafter for cutting and welding of delicate watch components. Even the hardest glasses from industrially manufactured sapphire can be efficiently separated with a high feed rate and minimum cutting loss.
The laser is the ideal tool for micro processing of precious metals. Laser technology combines precision in the range of 100 microns with lowest possible mechanical and thermal load of sensitive pieces such as precious unique jewels. Laser technology allows the design of new settings covering the stone only to a minimum and which can also process complex shapes. Laser markers reproduce facsimiles of hand writings in calligraphic quality.
Coherent offers system solutions for a wide range of laser applications in the watch industry, starting with a family of worldwide leading manual welding lasers, laser cutting and drilling systems to laser markers that were specifically designed for the watch and jewelry production.
Bracelet Welding
Depending upon material, either a pulsed or continuous wave laser can be used for rapid joining of parts of the same or dissimilar materials. The combination of very good penetration and small spot size produces a strong, cosmetically attractive weld. In addition to bracelet welding, the system can also be used for repair (small cracks in boxes or metal pieces).
For this application, we recommend: Select
Bracelet Marking
Laser heat treatment of metal surfaces, using a variety of different laser types (nanosecond, picosecond or femtosecond lasers), delivers everything from simple, high quality marks (text or logos), to complex structures (Côtes de Genève, brushed or sanded effect, etc.) in black or even color. Organic material (typically leather bracelets) can also be laser marked.
For this application, we recommend: EasyMark, EasyJewel
Welding and Cutting of Moving Parts
Laser can effectively cut a wide variety of materials. Complex shapes and high mechanical precision are required in manufacturing moving parts. The heat affected zone and taper are minimized, and very accurate geometries are achieved.
For this application, we recommend: Select, ExactCut
Needle Cutting
The use of ultra-short pulsewidth lasers enables cutting of small and precise parts, like needles. High cut quality with smooth sides, no burrs and distortion are required for these types of parts, and readily achieved with this type of laser.
For this application, we recommend: ExactCut
Dial and Index Engraving/Cutting/Welding
Surface ablation is performed to create a depression representing a graphic (text,logo,etc…). By repeating the pattern for a specific layer from various angles, very high accuracy at the required depth can be achieved. A femtosecond laser achieves the best quality in this application.
For this application, we recommend: Select, ExactCut, EasyMark
Watch Plate Marking/Engraving
Laser heat treatment of metal surfaces, using a variety of different laser types (nanosecond, picosecond or femtosecond lasers), delivers everything from simple to complex, high quality marks. Laser texturing allows surface decoration and innovative effects. Specific diffractive or hydrophobic effects can be realized (Côtes de Genève, brushed, or sanded effect, etc.).
For this application, we recommend: EasyMark, EasyJewel
Laser Glass Cutting
The unique laser glass cutting techniques available from Coherent allow fast processing and unmatched quality. The SmartCleave method simplifies or eliminates the need for post process machining. Different laser wavelengths can be utilized to cut different material and various thickness substrates.
For this application, we recommend: PowerLine SmartCleaveTM
Bezel Engraving
Surface ablation is performed to create reliefs with very accurate dimensions. By repeating the pattern for a specific layer from various angles, very high accuracy at the required depth can be achieved. A femtosecond laser achieves the best quality in this application.