Customizations
At 1776 Atelier, we believe that every timepiece is deeply personal.
Engraving Options
Available exclusively on the Mount Vernon collection.
Level 1 - Standard Offering
Modern Scroll
This is our no-charge engraving option, executed entirely by hand. It features a refined, modern scroll pattern that strikes an elegant balance between artisanal technique and minimalist restraint. The engraving flows with grace and precision, offering just enough complexity for those who appreciate subtle detail without overwhelming the design.
Level 2 - $300
Teutonic Scroll
This denser, more intricate scrollwork is offered at a modest surcharge. It pays homage to classical European engraving traditions while reinterpreting them through a distinctly American lens. With hundreds of individual scroll elements packed tightly together, it leaves almost no surface untouched. This pattern is ideal for those who appreciate visual richness and old-world artistry with a modern execution.
Level 3 - $600
American Gun Scroll
Our highest level of hand engraving, American Gun Scroll draws inspiration from the decorative embellishment seen on fine American shotguns at the turn of the 20th century. Executed with extraordinary care and detail, this style reflects light dynamically through a complex, interwoven scroll pattern. It is intricate, elegant, and deeply expressive — a fitting tribute to one of America’s most historic engraving traditions.
Crown and Ratchet Wheel Options
In a manually wound timepiece, the crown and ratchet wheels are among the most visible and iconic components — a natural place for artistic expression. Historically, wheel decoration has been one of the most celebrated aspects of traditional watchmaking. In that spirit, we offer both modern and traditional finishing methods across the following options:
Logo
Ratchet Wheel
This no-cost option features our signature engraved logo on the ratchet wheel and 13 stars on the crown wheel — a subtle tribute to America’s founding. Both are engraved using laser technology to achieve intricate detail that would be nearly impossible with hand tools. Each wheel is adorned with hand-applied circular graining, adding a shimmering texture that catches light beautifully.
Skeletonized
Ratchet Wheel
Also available at no additional charge, this set features a cut-out ratchet wheel with two stars visible through the opening. The crown wheel once again carries our signature 13-star motif. As with Option 1, both components are laser-engraved and then hand-finished. Satin circular graining is carefully applied by hand to enhance visual depth and texture.
Double
Snailing
Available for a modest surcharge, this technique uses an 80-year-old traditional watchmaker’s lathe to apply concentric solarized graining patterns — often referred to as “snailing.” Each wheel receives two overlapping spirals, creating beautiful light reflection and a strong sense of motion. This is one of the most artisanal techniques we offer and one of the most time-intensive.
Triple
Snailing
For those seeking even greater visual complexity, triple snailing adds a third layer of spiral graining to the ratchet wheel. Due to the size of the crown wheel, it retains double snailing. This option is available for a modest upcharge and represents the highest level of traditional wheel decoration in our catalog.
Galvanic Treatments
Galvanic plating is one of the most important tools in defining the tone and personality of a timepiece. It affects not only the color and contrast of a movement but also the way light interacts with its surfaces. At 1776 Atelier, we offer several galvanic treatments to help you express the aesthetic you want most.
Yellow Gold
For those who value classic aesthetics, yellow gold evokes the spirit of 20th-century American and European timepieces. It brings a timeless warmth and stately presence.
Rose Gold
Warm and traditional, rose gold is often used in combination with black rhodium to achieve rich contrast and highlight movement architecture. It bridges modern design with classical elegance.
White Rhodium
With its bright, silver tone, white rhodium is the most reflective of our finishes. It maximizes light play and clarity, especially ideal for collectors who want to showcase every element of finishing and engraving.
Black Rhodium
A bold, modern choice. Its dark tone adds depth and sophistication while offering high contrast with polished and engraved elements. Though less reflective, it provides a sleek, technical look highly favored by collectors seeking modernity.
Pièce Unique
We understand that a watch is a deeply personal object, and for some collectors, that means going far beyond standard customization. Perhaps you envision a more intricate engraving pattern, a scene of personal significance hand-engraved on the movement, or even dial-side engraving that tells your story. For serious collectors seeking something truly exceptional, we can even explore custom bridge configurations—or, in rare cases, a movement design that exists nowhere else but on your wrist. As an independent watchmaker, we welcome these conversations. While feasibility depends on the model and scope of the request, we are always happy to explore the possibilities with you. Feel free to reach out and begin the dialogue.