Backgammon - ETA 6498-1
In this project, we took the idea from our client as a basis and developed it by adapting the attributes of a popular board game for visualization on a round clock face.
Backgammon - ETA 6498-1
As is well known, backgammon (other common names include trictrac (French – trictrac), backgammon (English – backgammon), tavla (Turkish – tavla; Greek – τάβλι), nardy shesh-besh, kosha) is a board game for two players on a special board divided into two halves. The objective of the game is to move all your checkers into your home and bear them off the board before your opponent does. Players take turns rolling the dice and moving their checkers according to the rolled numbers, moving their checkers around the board in a full circuit to their home and bearing them off the board.
The direct predecessor of modern backgammon is considered to be the Roman game tabula (Latin: tabula – game board). It was described in an epigram by the Byzantine Emperor Zeno (476–481 AD). The board for this game was the same as for backgammon: it contained 24 points, 12 on each side. Players moved their pieces towards each other and used dice in the form of cubes, just as we do today. As in modern backgammon, the objective of the game was to be the first to bear off all 15 of your pieces. The rules for hitting, re-entering, and bearing off pieces were the same as they are now. The main differences were that three dice were used instead of two, at the beginning of the game the pieces were off the board (they entered the board by the same rules as for re-entering captured pieces), and there was no rule for doubles (which was introduced in the 1920s).
In Europe, the spread of the game was associated with the return of the Crusaders from the Crusades in the 12th century. The game became very popular in medieval Europe. In many countries, especially in Greece, Turkey, and Romania, backgammon remains a popular game played in town squares and cafes to this day.
Inspired by the ancient history of the game and after playing a few long and short matches, we set to work.
For this project, we advised our client to choose one of the modern movements from the famous Swiss watch manufacturer ETA S.A. – the caliber 6498-1. This is a "Savonnette" type movement with the small seconds hand positioned at "6 o'clock" and the winding crown at "3 o'clock". It has long been established as a reliable "workhorse" and has therefore been used by countless watch companies in their models.
One of the case models stored in our warehouse was perfectly suited for the selected movement. It is a classic round three-piece case with straight, rounded lugs. It features a front spherical sapphire crystal, resistant to mechanical impacts, and a flat mineral crystal on the back. The back cover screws on with a thread. The case is made of 316L stainless steel, known for its durability and corrosion resistance.
One of the case models stored in our warehouse was perfectly suited for the selected movement. It is a classic round three-piece case with straight, rounded lugs. It features a front spherical sapphire crystal, resistant to mechanical impacts, and a flat mineral crystal on the back. The back cover screws on with a thread. The case is made of 316L stainless steel, known for its durability and corrosion resistance.
The ETA 6497/8 movements began production in 1950. They were originally developed for pocket watches, but with the rising demand for larger sizes, they also became popular in wristwatches. Thus, these calibers became the only "pocket watch" family of movements to transition into the third millennium.
Throughout their 70-year history, the ETA 6497/8 calibers have undergone two modifications. The first was in 1967 when ETA replaced the original small-sized pallet bridge with a larger one, secured by two screws, and equipped it with the proprietary Etachron regulator system. These modified calibers were designated ETA 6497-1 and ETA 6498-1.
Our project utilizes the ETA 6498-1 caliber in the "Standard" grade – regulated in two positions, featuring the Novodiac shock protection system, with an accuracy of ± 15 seconds per day and a maximum positional error of 40 seconds per day, and an isochronism deviation of ± 30 seconds per day.
Throughout their 70-year history, the ETA 6497/8 calibers have undergone two modifications. The first was in 1967 when ETA replaced the original small-sized pallet bridge with a larger one, secured by two screws, and equipped it with the proprietary Etachron regulator system. These modified calibers were designated ETA 6497-1 and ETA 6498-1.
Our project utilizes the ETA 6498-1 caliber in the "Standard" grade – regulated in two positions, featuring the Novodiac shock protection system, with an accuracy of ± 15 seconds per day and a maximum positional error of 40 seconds per day, and an isochronism deviation of ± 30 seconds per day.
The second modification, carried out around 1995, was more extensive. Every component of the movement was improved and modernized. The balance oscillation frequency and power reserve were increased. The aesthetic appearance was enhanced through higher-quality decoration. Movements from this modification were designated ETA 6497-2 and ETA 6498-2.
As previously mentioned, this caliber uses the NOVODIAC shock protection system for the balance staff and the ETACHRON system for precision rate adjustment.
As previously mentioned, this caliber uses the NOVODIAC shock protection system for the balance staff and the ETACHRON system for precision rate adjustment.
Novodiac is a shock protection device from the well-known company Incabloc S.A. It is a removable Swiss-made shock protection system used in many watches. According to the manufacturer, "Novodiac is a geometric alternative to a functional and economical spring system. It features a freely removable spring. The bayonet-type mount ensures no untimely detachment. Novodiac offers a competitive price that meets the needs of your clients."
ETA filed for trademark protection for the term "ETACHRON" only in 2014, although this regulator has been used by them at least since 1967. This regulator features a rotating regulator pin block through which the terminal curve of the balance spring (hairspring) passes, secured in an adjustable arm.
Having dealt with the movement, we now move on to the dial. The dial is the most prominent visible component of a watch and largely determines the overall style of the piece, so it always receives maximum attention.
Our designer's task was to transfer the attributes of the rectangular game board onto the watch dial. He accomplished this by harmoniously placing the triangular point markers of the board around the dial. The hour markers are represented by game pieces with Arabic numerals. A pair of dice is placed in the center of the dial. Two sketch variants were drawn, visually similar but with one very important technological difference. From a mechanical standpoint, the preferred variant features elongated triangles at the 3, 6, 9, and 12 o'clock positions – this design ensures that the hour wheel is securely held on all four sides, preventing it from potentially slipping off the central axis.
Having dealt with the movement, we now move on to the dial. The dial is the most prominent visible component of a watch and largely determines the overall style of the piece, so it always receives maximum attention.
Our designer's task was to transfer the attributes of the rectangular game board onto the watch dial. He accomplished this by harmoniously placing the triangular point markers of the board around the dial. The hour markers are represented by game pieces with Arabic numerals. A pair of dice is placed in the center of the dial. Two sketch variants were drawn, visually similar but with one very important technological difference. From a mechanical standpoint, the preferred variant features elongated triangles at the 3, 6, 9, and 12 o'clock positions – this design ensures that the hour wheel is securely held on all four sides, preventing it from potentially slipping off the central axis.
The final version of the skeletonized dial, including the color and placement of elements, was approved by the client. The dial will be cut from a 925 sterling silver plate and engraved using laser technology.
Meanwhile, the master watchmaker disassembled the movement, cleaned it, and prepared it for engraving work.
Meanwhile, the master watchmaker disassembled the movement, cleaned it, and prepared it for engraving work.
In accordance with the approved sketch, our specialists have developed a layout for laser cutting and engraving of the dial. The overall diameter of the dial is 37.0 mm, with a visible diameter of 34.4 mm. Using the created layout, a template was first cut from brass, which is necessary for creating the skeleton of the movement.
Afterward, the main plate of the movement, along with the gear bridges, barrel, balance, and pallet fork, along with the dial template, were sent to the master engraver.
По пожеланию заказчика, основным требованием к гравировке на механизме было ее соответствие общей тематике проекта. Остальные детали были полностью доверены мастеру.
The jewelry engraver performed a light skeletonization of the bridges, being careful not to compromise the structural integrity of the parts, which could have led to deterioration of the timekeeping characteristics and potential mechanical failure. The gear bridge featured an engraving of dice, while the jewel seats and screw holes in the bridges were stylized as backgammon checkers. The pallet fork bridge was engraved with a baroque-style vegetal ornament. The original inscriptions on the barrel bridge were preserved and incorporated into the new design as plaques.
On the dial side of the main plate, slots were cut according to the dial template. Mounting holes for the dial were also relocated, as the original ones were located where the slots were cut.
The jewelry engraver performed a light skeletonization of the bridges, being careful not to compromise the structural integrity of the parts, which could have led to deterioration of the timekeeping characteristics and potential mechanical failure. The gear bridge featured an engraving of dice, while the jewel seats and screw holes in the bridges were stylized as backgammon checkers. The pallet fork bridge was engraved with a baroque-style vegetal ornament. The original inscriptions on the barrel bridge were preserved and incorporated into the new design as plaques.
On the dial side of the main plate, slots were cut according to the dial template. Mounting holes for the dial were also relocated, as the original ones were located where the slots were cut.
It goes without saying that all the work of transforming and engraving the movement was done by the master using manual tools such as a jeweler's saw and gravers. This work is quite complex, meticulous, and labor-intensive, requiring considerable patience, a steady hand, and great skill. After the engraving, grinding, and polishing were completed, the movement was coated with a layer of high-quality gold plating applied using electroplating. Then, for contrast, the dice and plaques with inscriptions were coated with white rhodium using an electroplating pencil.
For the future watch, we selected a suitable black leather strap from our inventory. It is custom-made by hand from genuine leather and stitched with black linen thread using saddle stitching.
For the future watch, we selected a suitable black leather strap from our inventory. It is custom-made by hand from genuine leather and stitched with black linen thread using saddle stitching.
After testing the dial layout on the brass template, we cut and engraved the dial disc from a silver plate. Next, manual finishing and soldering of the feet were carried out. Once again, we emphasize that in all our work, dials are exclusively attached using feet or screws. We do not employ barbaric methods involving adhesives or double-sided tape.
Subsequently, we selectively darkened the silver using electroplating in specific areas to enhance the clarity and expressiveness of the geometrically strict lines representing the points for the game pieces.
Subsequently, we selectively darkened the silver using electroplating in specific areas to enhance the clarity and expressiveness of the geometrically strict lines representing the points for the game pieces.
The next step involved the process of applying epoxy enamel, which was divided into four stages corresponding to the number of colors used. First, the dice and the letters on the plaque with our brand name were coated with white enamel. Then, red enamel was applied to the game pieces representing the hour markers. The jeweler-enameler then filled the triangles representing the points for the game pieces with blue and beige enamel.
After the enamel application, the dial acquired its final "commercial" appearance. The next question arose regarding the hands: what style to choose? The style was quickly determined to be classic "Spade & Diamond" hands, which became popular in the 19th century. However, the color choice was more challenging, considering the vibrant and saturated colors of the dial. The decision was made through experimentation: out of the three colors – black, gold, and steel – gold was chosen. Such hands provided the best readability against the colorful background of the dial.
After the movement was gold-plated, it returned to the watchmaker. Now it was time to lubricate it, assemble it into a single unit, and adjust it. In the last century, during small-scale production in workshops, these operations were handled by three different watchmakers with narrow specializations. Our watchmaker managed all of this single-handedly. In this model, a large steel winding crown with a spherical shape and notches was installed, beautifully harmonizing with the case and facilitating the winding of the watch's mainspring.
Before being sent to the client, our products undergo mandatory checks to ensure compliance with the approved technical specifications and the quality criteria developed by us. Only after successful acceptance by one of the owners of our watchmaking studio are they handed over to the customer in one way or another.
Another project has reached its logical conclusion. This time, the most striking and distinctive element turned out to be the skeletonized dial, imitating a backgammon board. It is worth mentioning that the project implementation process involved constant communication with our client. They took a very active part in creating their watch, essentially becoming a full member of our creative team for the duration. We consulted with them on any contentious issues, providing photo reports of the work done. The client was always kept informed of everything that was happening.
We invite you to evaluate the result of our joint work and once again marvel at the level of craftsmanship of our artisans: artists, designers, turners, watchmakers, engravers, jewelers, electroplaters, and enamellers. We have created another set of luxurious men's skeletonized watches.
The watches look bold, flashy, and striking. They will undoubtedly not go unnoticed on our client's wrist and will help emphasize their individuality, charisma, and style, eliciting admiring glances from those around them. The transparent case back not only allows you to appreciate the engraver's craftsmanship but also literally feel the passage of time by observing the workings of the impeccable mechanism.
If the backgammon-inspired watches have impressed you, you can turn to our watchmaking studio, and together we will create the watch of your dreams. Perhaps they will be themed after other popular games, such as chess or dominoes. Or maybe you'll want to reflect your inner experiences, worldview, significant events, attributes of your profession, or hobbies – we will assist you with that. These can be both formal dress watches and highly unconventional timepieces for everyday wear. We do not limit your imagination, and our experienced craftsmen guarantee high-quality execution, taking into account all your wishes.
You can always order the development and production of individually designed custom watches in a single piece based on antique, vintage, or modern movements in our studio or purchase ready-made watches from our inventory. You can explore past projects in the corresponding section on our website.
Of course, you can always buy a mass-produced model from well-known watch brands, but they will be soulless watches, ordinary products for the mass market. Write your own watch story, reflecting your preferences and all facets of your unique personality! Your unique watches will be passed down as a family heirloom, preserving the connection between generations and continuing family traditions.
You can always order the development and production of individually designed custom watches in a single piece based on antique, vintage, or modern movements in our studio or purchase ready-made watches from our inventory. You can explore past projects in the corresponding section on our website.
Of course, you can always buy a mass-produced model from well-known watch brands, but they will be soulless watches, ordinary products for the mass market. Write your own watch story, reflecting your preferences and all facets of your unique personality! Your unique watches will be passed down as a family heirloom, preserving the connection between generations and continuing family traditions.
