Damascus steel is much more than a material—it's the result of ancient knowledge passed down through generations of master forgers. Its distinctive wave-like patterns and exceptional strength have made it renowned across the world, a symbol of resilience as well as beauty. With Nereide Damasco, this legendary material enters the world of Venezianico watchmaking as a tribute to craftsmanship and metallurgical culture.
What is Damascus steel
Originally developed to meet the need for a metal that was both strong and flexible, Damascus steel stands out for its compact structure and remarkable visual appeal. The artisanal process behind it involves layering, hammering, and folding multiple sheets of steel, often with different properties, to combine hardness with elasticity.
As the metals are forged, they blend in a controlled way, forming a surface marked by flowing, wave-like patterns, each one truly unique. These are not superficial decorations but the natural result of the material's journey. This uniqueness—combined with the steel’s performance—has made Damascus steel highly valued through the centuries, admired for its utility as well as its symbolic and aesthetic qualities.
Venice and the spread of Damascus steel
In the Middle Ages, the Serenissima Republic of Venice played a key role as a strategic crossroads between Europe and the Middle East, helping to introduce refined materials like Damascus steel to the Western world. Imported from cities like Damascus—then part of the Mamluk Empire—this steel was prized for its durability and striking patterning.
Although Venice was not the place of origin, its skilled artisans quickly assimilated and reinterpreted Eastern forging techniques, contributing to the prestige and wider diffusion of Damascus steel in Europe. Today, the bond between Venice and this remarkable material lives on through artisanal knowledge and an enduring commitment to detail.
Our production process
We chose to work with Damascus steel because of its historical significance and the unique character it brings to each piece. It’s a demanding material—complex to handle and requiring precision at every stage in order to preserve its texture and ensure the highest quality.
Each dial begins as a forged steel sheet, then undergoes an acid treatment to bring out its natural grain. A selective mirror polish is applied to certain areas to highlight the contrast between matte and glossy surfaces, adding visual depth and movement. Finally, the dial is mounted on a brass base, maintaining a slim profile without sacrificing strength.
The result is a dial that feels alive and textured—a modern take on a centuries-old art.
Nereide Damasco: Tradition Forged Over Time
Nereide Damasco pays homage to the ancient art of metalworking and to Venice’s role in spreading Damascus steel across Europe. Its dial, crafted from genuine Damascus steel, displays unique and unrepeatable grain patterns, born from a process refined over generations. Every detail reflects a story of craftsmanship, patience, and precision.
The 316L stainless steel case, paired with a satin-finished bezel, strikes a balance between robustness and visual clarity. The Swiss Made Sellita SW200-1 automatic movement is enhanced by a new Venezianico signature rotor, designed and produced in-house with refined finishes such as radial Côtes de Genève, anglage, and a rose gold 3N galvanic treatment.
This Nereide is more than just a watch—it’s a tribute to metallurgical tradition and the artisanal memory of the Serenissima. Each grain in the dial is a fragment of history, forged for the present, rooted in timeless heritage.
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