PVD and ion-plating processes are commonly used to create gold-coloured watch cases and bracelets. They can produce durable finishes, but they should not be confused with solid gold.
What PVD means
Physical vapour deposition is a family of coating processes in which material is deposited onto a prepared surface. Watch brands may use different coating stacks and colours.
What IP means
“IP” usually refers to ion plating, another vacuum-deposition approach used for decorative and functional coatings. Marketing terminology varies, so the manufacturer’s specification is the best guide.
Durability
A quality coating can be highly wear resistant, but no decorative surface is indestructible. Scratches that penetrate the coating can expose the underlying metal.
Why choose coated steel?
It offers a gold appearance with the strength, availability and cost structure of a base-metal watch. It is particularly sensible for everyday wear when solid-gold pricing is unnecessary.