The tradition surface treatment techniques include electroplating and organic coating, etc. However, they can no longer satisfy the stringent requirements of modern designs.
Recently the rise of plasma technology and nano-materials provides a feasible approach for the surface modification of components. The objective of the present research activity is to prepare an atomic-level perfect, homogenous, dense and transparent coating to protect the watch and jewelry surfaces by means of a new vapor deposition technique. As a result, the surface hardness can be superior to that of sapphire, which will improve substantially the wear resistance and endurance of watch and jewelry surfaces.
In addition, the coating can prevent the surface corrosion caused by some external factors such as climatic change, sea water and sweating, thus keeping the original brightness and luster, or even making the appearance more elegant and upscale.
In this study, a prototype machine for thin film deposition has been set up, and the coating processes as well as the structure and properties of the deposited thin films have been studied in details. Based on this, we also provide the technical service and perform trial tests for the watch and jewelry industry.
Meanwhile, we hold seminars/workshops to promote the new coating technology. The application of hard and transparent coatings will be an ideal approach to enhance the competitiveness of watch and jewelry products. A good reputation will also be built up in Hong Kong as Swiss does not have this technology so far.
