The colours created for the Oyster Perpetual range start life as a lacquer, which must be meticulously applied in a controlled-atmosphere environment to avoid dust and other contamination.

The brass plate of the dial base receives layer upon layer of lacquer, six in all, to form a regular, uniform surface. The last step is varnishing and polishing to bring out the full brilliance and depth of colour. The various inscriptions are then pad printed, and the hour markers and crown riveted by hand. The dial, gleaming in its perfection, is all set to take its place on top of the movement at the watch assembly phase.