NO.261
This project explores the contrast between matte surfaces and precious reflections. A gray DLC case, black diamond-set bezel, and grained black dial create a composition defined by texture and light.
The Owner’s Vision
The owner was drawn to the distinctive character of black diamonds. Their deep reflections offered a more restrained alternative to traditional brilliance. Working closely with him, we developed a design in which precious materials remain present without dominating the composition.
Black Diamond Bezel
The custom bezel is set with 48 black diamonds totaling 3.73 carats. Ethically sourced in Angola, the stones were selected for visual consistency and precision cut into square baguettes. The setting required around 40 hours of bench work to ensure a balanced and regular composition.
Gray DLC Treatment
The case received a matte gray diamond like carbon coating (DLC). This ultra thin carbon layer provides high resistance to wear while preserving the geometry of each component. The selected industrial gray finish introduces a fine grained texture and remains fully reversible.
Custom Dial and Indexes
A newly manufactured dial was developed specifically for the project. Its fine grained black finish echoes the matte gray case, while the hands and indexes were hand painted in black and filled with black Super LumiNova to preserve nighttime legibility.
- Base watchStainless steel diver’s watch, provided by its owner
- Case & size40 mm, matte gray DLC, hand-sandblasted
- DialCustom grained black, hand-painted black hour markers with black SLN
- HandsHand-painted black, black SLN
- BezelHand-set, 48 black diamonds, 3.73 carats, black DLC
- BraceletMatte gray DLC, hand-sandblasted
- GemstonesAngolan black diamonds, baguette cut
- CrownGray DLC
- Indicative budgetCHF 38,000 to 46,000
(USD 47,500 to 57,500) - Typical lead time4 to 5 months
from design approval to delivery
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Submit your requestFully Reversible
Most customizations are reversible. For nonreversible work, a new component can be manufactured at additional cost.
Swiss Made
Every stage, from preparation to final assembly, was carried out by hand in our Swiss workshops.
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Customization affects the original warranty. Alter provides an independent warranty for its work and a certificate of authenticity with each piece.
Independent Studio
Each creation is carried out on the client's own watch, in complete autonomy. Alter is not affiliated with any watch brand or manufacturer.