See the following images:-
Ever wonder how these patterns were made? Or even, what are these seemingly different patterns called?
All these patterns fall in the category of Guilloché. (Pronounced - /ɡɪˈloʊʃ/ ). It represents a series of repetitive spirals and circular patterns, that ends up giving a beautiful effect when slowly provided a motion. Something like this:-
Let’s see, some of the different types of Guilloche patterns, in a famous wristwatch.
How these are made: By a lathe type machine that goes by the same name as the pattern: Guilloche Patterns. The technique is called Engine Turning in which any metal can be finely machined to produce intricate repetitive patterns that offer reflective interest and fine detail.
The machine is also called as Rose engine lathe.
Mercklein's rose engine, 1780
Do not think, that such patterns are only made on metals. Most of the paper currency notes carry such patterns. Check out your dollar and rupee bills!
I will write another blog post, detailing how it is manufactured, exactly.
I got to know all this, working on my first Kickstarter product - yes, it will have this beautiful Guilloche pattern. I designed it and getting it made in India. It will be live on Kickstarter in November first week.
I choose the concept of “Infinity”, for the base of the pattern. Under a single source of light, it will make a beautiful pattern of an infinity symbol. Not only this, the symbol will magically follow your eyes. If you move in any direction, the symbol will follow you.