Venezianico Nereide Damasco 4521565

The Precision of an Ancient Art

The production of Damascus steel is a centuries-old craft that requires utmost precision and craftsmanship. This special material is created by repeatedly layering, forging, and folding different steels with complementary properties. In an elaborate process that can take several days, the metals are folded and compacted up to a hundred times. The result is an extremely durable material with a dense and uniform structure. Its characteristic, wavy patterns are created by the repeated fusion of the alloys, making each piece a true one-of-a-kind.

From the Blacksmith's Forge to the Dial

After precise cutting, the Damascus steel disk undergoes an acid treatment. This step highlights the fine grain of the metal and brings out the unique patterns created by the multi-layered forging process. This is followed by an elaborate mirror polish, which further enhances the contrast between the surfaces. With a thickness of only 0.4 mm, the delicate dial is then combined with a brass base to ensure stability and a perfect fit for the movement. The final touch is the precise printing of details, the application of the indices, and the attachment of the logo – the moment when the face of the watch is completed.

Venice and the Legacy of Damascus Steel

As an important trade center between East and West, Venice played a central role in the spread of Damascus steel in Europe. Due to its strategic location and flourishing trade with the Middle East, this valuable material reached the city and was prized for its exceptional hardness and unique wavy patterns. Although not produced in Venice itself, the local metal craftsmen adopted and reinterpreted the techniques of Eastern blacksmithing. Thus, the city became an important center for the processing and refinement of Damascus steel. Through trade and craftsmanship, the legendary material for weapons became a coveted symbol of luxury and sophistication.

More Than Function – A Mark of Excellence

To best showcase the Sellita SW200-1 caliber, we didn't simply adapt an existing component, but designed a completely new rotor from scratch. This was developed and manufactured in-house and sets new standards in terms of aesthetics and finishing. Its open-worked structure reflects the brand logo, while the fine Côtes de Genève decoration creates a dynamic play of light and shadow. The polished edges of the openings – meticulously finished with Anglage-Finishing – provide glimpses into the underlying movement and give the construction additional depth. The design is rounded off by a galvanic coating in 3N rose gold, which makes the rotor shine with a noble luster.

The Art of Forging on the Wrist

Wearing a watch with a Damascus steel dial means owning a piece of traditional craftsmanship on your wrist. Over centuries, the technique of folding, forging, and refining has been perfected, making each watch an individual work of art. The fine, wavy patterns tell the story of their creation – marked by artisanal dedication and the expertise of skilled blacksmiths. But these timepieces not only stand for mechanical precision, but also for a tribute to metallurgy, which Venice spread throughout Europe over the centuries. Every detail embodies the highest craftsmanship and passion.

A Reflection of the Venetian Lagoon

The surface of the Damascus steel reflects light in a fascinating way – much like the water of the Venetian Lagoon, which changes with every breeze. The unique patterns of the dial are created by a centuries-old forging process, in which layers of metal are stacked, processed, and etched. The alternation between polished and matte surfaces creates a fascinating interplay of depth and movement – a dial that changes with the incidence of light, just like the colors of the lagoon throughout the day.

Specifications

• Case: Stainless steel, diameter 40 mm, height 13 mm
• Water Resistance: 100 m (10 ATM)
• Dial: Damascus steel with unique pattern
• Glass: Sapphire crystal with double-sided anti-reflective coating
• Movement: Sellita SW200-1 (Automatic)
• Frequency: 28,800 A/h (4 Hz)
• Power Reserve: 38 hours
• Rotor:
• Custom design with Côtes de Genève decoration
• 3N Rose Gold Galvanization
• Strap:
• Choice of leather or solid stainless steel bracelet
• High-quality folding clasp
• Special Features:
• Unique Damascus dial with wavy pattern
• Sapphire case back for view of the movement