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Titanium is a highly popular watchmaking material, but not all titaniums are equal. The different titanium grades directly influence the resistance, weight, price and aesthetics of your watch. Here is a clear guide to understanding the most common grades and knowingly choosing.
What is a grade of titanium?
A titanium grade designates the chemical composition and the mechanical properties of the metal. Some are pure, others are allied with aluminum, vanadium or palladium to strengthen certain characteristics. In watchmaking, the grades 2, 5, 9 and 23 are mainly used.
For an overview of the role of titanium in the watchmaking industry, consult our article pillar: why titanium has become essential in watchmaking.
Grade 2: the most common
- Composition : 99.2 % pure titanium
- Properties : very light, easy to machine, excellent corrosion resistance
- Inconvenience : less scratch -resistant than alloys
- Use : diving, sports watches, affordable daily use
It is often found in accessible or outdoor brands watches.
Grade 5: The high -end reference
- Composition : titanium + 6 % aluminum + 4 % vanadium
- Properties : very solid, resistant to heat, stripes, allows satin or polished finishes
- Inconvenience : more expensive and more difficult to work
- Use : luxury watches, dressed or high -end sports (Rolex RLX, IWC, Omega, etc.)
Grade 5 is ideal for a highly qualitative and durable rendering.
Grade 9: Performance/Price compromise
- Composition : titanium + 3 % aluminum + 2.5 % vanadium
- Properties : good corrosion resistance, easier to work than grade 5
- Use : some brands make it a technical choice, but it is still rare
Grade 23: for biocompatibility
- Composition : purified variant of grade 5, with fewer impurities
- Properties : ideal for medical implants, biocompatible, very resistant
- Use : very little present in watchmaking but could gain popularity
- For sporting use : Grade 2 with surface treatment or grade 5 if the budget allows
- For a dressed and sustainable watch : Grade 5 recommended for its aesthetic possibilities
- For an affordable daily port : Grade 2 with good weight/resistance ratio
Understanding titanium grades allows you to make a choice to notify. Titanium in watchmaking is not a simple fashion effect: it is a technical material and adapted to many uses. The grade you choose will directly influence the longevity, comfort and aesthetics of your watch.
Faq
- Is grade 5 better than grade 2?
It is more solid, more aesthetic, but also more expensive to produce. - Can we polish a titanium watch?
Yes, especially in grade 5, which better accepts shiny or satin finishes. - Is a grade 2 treated a good alternative?
Yes, treatments like Duratect improves its scratch resistance.
