To all those who've put patina on dials...

[panman8888]

and are happy to share info and help...

once i get the desired brownish stains (using tobacco, coffee, sugar, etc.), should i apply something to keep it all in place? i've heard of people using varnish - what exactly (product name?) is this referring to? how best to apply it? just numbers/markers, right?

any guidance would be most appreciated.

 

[panman8888]

live cultures in my watch

the only trouble, enzo, is that i want a watch that not only looks good, but tastes good too...at least until it rots

thanks for the advice!

There is no science to the act of ageing ..
Evidence is the fact in the popularity of these "Ant Farm" methods of smearing organic or food substances on the inside of your watch.

I see two negative reasons to using organics as ageing material. First it's not consistant, nor will it "stay" or hold. [Coffee - example, insert any food product] stains this week, may be weak in a month's time, or depending on where you live, may shift colour, fade completely or turn an interesting green. 2) Organics can mould, cause oxidation on parts you didn't even touch, degrade and shift into the mechansim ... now I am like the next guy, and think that a mossy fungus-lumped dial might look interesting as a statement of art. But when did that happen in history and IF you are trying to recreate the effect of a new watch looking old and worn. That approach doesn't really replicate the idea. Microorganisms and mechanics don't mix

It is much easier to go to the art or hobby retail and purchase viable colours, dyes, stains, varnish &tc. which come in precise shades and are standardised. This allows you to not only age, but do so consistantly and with a result you can depend on it "sticking", not just being sticky ...

One can still be creative and artistic without having to raid that kitchen cupboard

 

[panman8888]

lol

contest: the first to make a dial that barks, crows, meows, moans or groans will get all my RWI$$$

 

[SD4K]

hm. intrersting.
hold on, I'll just tie it to my dog. :wink: