Physical vapour deposition (PVD) has become widespread for coating metals to create a matte or black look that has been fashionable in recent years.

Swatch now introduces a new collection of Irony Chrono models on which the PVD coating is gold. Could this signal a new trend for gilt-style watches with the harder and more resistant PVD coating being the perfect antidote to the gold-plated models that appear to have been consigned to the history books?

The case, bezel and bracelet of each of the three new models are in 316L stainless steel with a brushed gold PVD coating for an understated look.

Each model has a different-coloured dial (black, gold or green) with gilt chronograph counters and small seconds counter, as well as a tachymetre scale on the gilt flange.

Let’s see how other fashion brands react to this new look…