Glossary · Case & Dial
Enamel dial
A dial made by fusing powdered glass to a metal disc, giving a hard, glossy, light-fast surface.
Explanation
An enamel dial is made by firing powdered glass onto a metal (usually copper) plate, giving a hard, brilliant white (or coloured) surface that does not fade or tarnish. Hairline cracks, chips at the edges and replaced dials are common; even small hairlines affect value. 'Enamel' on modern dials often means lacquer — true fired enamel is a specialist craft.
In the object catalogue
Catalogued objects whose own source record mentions “Enamel dial”. The quoted line shows where; it is the seller’s or museum’s wording, not independent verification.
Pocket watch
Nicole Nielsen Gold Hunter Pocket Watch
“This mid-19th-century English duplex pocket watch is attributed to Nicole Nielsen and documented with London hallmarks dating to 1858. The watch is encased in an 18-carat yellow…”
Pocket watch
Lepaute 18th-century gold pocket watch
“This 18th-century French pocket watch is housed in an 18-karat gold case measuring 4.5 cm in diameter. The source reports indistinct hallmarks on the case and a white enamel dia…”
Pocket watch
Justin Vulliamy Gold Pair Cased Pocket Watch
“White enamel dial with black Roman hour numerals and an outer Arabic minute ring marked in five-minute intervals.”
Pocket watch
Waltham Vanguard 23 Jewel Railroad Pocket Watch
“This 16-size American railroad grade pocket watch was manufactured by the Waltham Watch Co around 1942. According to the seller, it is powered by a stem-wound, lever-set nickel …”
Pocket watch
Albert H. Potter & Co., Geneva Gold Hunting Cased Keyless Pocket Chronometer No. 85
“This 18ct gold hunting-cased keyless pocket chronometer by Albert H. Potter & Co., Geneva, dates to circa 1885 and is numbered 85 on the train bridge. According to the auction c…”
Clock
Vincenti & Cie French mantel clock
“White enamel dial features Roman numerals, simple hands, and two key-winding apertures.”