AstraLume™ Core Alloy is a proprietary tungsten–carbide composite developed by Atelier von Feuerbach through advanced laser metallurgy. It combines aerospace-grade structural integrity with the refined visual purity of polished steel, forming the foundation for our most advanced timepiece architectures.

Overview

AstraLume™ is created through a process known as Laser Metallurgical Fusion (LMF), where ultra-fine powders of tungsten carbide and nickel-based alloys are fused under directed laser energy within an argon-shielded melt chamber. The result is a dense, nanostructured alloy offering exceptional hardness, corrosion resistance, and thermal stability while maintaining the luminous aesthetic of stainless steel.

Composition

Component	Function	Weight Ratio
WC (Tungsten Carbide)	Provides extreme hardness, dimensional stability, and thermal resistance.	68–72%
Ni–Cr–Fe Matrix	Acts as a metallic binder offering ductility, corrosion resistance, and cohesion between carbide phases.	20–24%
Ti + Mo Trace Additives	Stabilize the lattice structure, improve oxidation resistance, and refine the metallic sheen.	2–3%
Cobalt (Co)	Enhances fracture toughness and contributes to a subtle magnetic response characteristic of high-performance carbide composites.	2–4%

Manufacturing Process

1. Laser Metallurgical Fusion: Ultra-fine alloy powders are fused under localized melt-pool temperatures exceeding 2000°C under an inert argon atmosphere, creating a dense and uniform microstructure with minimal porosity.
2. Thermal Stress Equalization: Multi-phase heat treatment between 900°C and 1300°C relieves internal stresses and promotes cohesion and grain-boundary strengthening between metallic and carbide domains.
3. Optical Surface Refinement: Precision diamond polishing yields a mirror-steel spectral finish without compromising the alloy’s carbide continuity while maintaining the inherent hardness of the alloy.

Physical and Mechanical Properties

Property	Value
Microhardness (HV)	2250–2400 HV
Density	14.6 g/cm³
Elastic Modulus	620 GPa
Thermal Conductivity	96 W/m·K
Oxidation Resistance	Stable up to 1250°C
Corrosion Resistance	Comparable to or exceeding 904L stainless steel
Magnetic Permeability	1.02–1.05 (weakly magnetic)

Integration with AurumFusion™

AstraLume™ serves as the substrate for AurumFusion™ - Atelier von Feuerbach’s proprietary plasma-gold deposition process. In this method, molten 24k gold is accelerated at supersonic velocity under 40–60 bar of pressure, embedding itself into the carbide microstructure and forming a permanent molecular bond with 1200–1600 MPa in adhesion strength.

Advantages

• Exceptional hardness and thermal endurance beyond conventional steels.
• Visually indistinguishable from 904L steel while mechanically superior.
• Permanent molecular bonding with 24k gold using AurumFusion™ technology.
• Resistance to corrosion and oxidation in both marine and acidic environments.
• Low-level magnetic response compatible with chronometer-grade movements.

AstraLume™ Core Alloy represents the convergence of science, engineering, and horological art - an alloy born from aerospace metallurgy and perfected for timeless watchmaking under the standards of Atelier von Feuerbach.

AurumFusion™ is Atelier von Feuerbach’s proprietary high-energy plasma-gold deposition technology - a process designed to create a permanent, molecular-level bond between 24-karat gold and the AstraLume™ tungsten–carbide alloy substrate. Unlike traditional PVD, electroplating, or vapor deposition methods, AurumFusion™ uses supersonic plasma acceleration under extreme pressure and temperature to achieve a metallurgical fusion rather than a surface coating.

Overview

The AurumFusion™ process replicates the conditions of aerospace plasma bonding technology used in turbine and satellite component manufacturing. During the procedure, pure 24k gold is melted, ionized, and accelerated to supersonic velocity through a plasma nozzle operating at several thousand Kelvin. The molten particles impact the activated surface of AstraLume™ at high kinetic energy, embedding themselves into the microscopic cavities of the alloy’s carbide matrix. Upon contact, a diffusion-anchored intermetallic interface is formed - resulting in a bond that is both mechanical and molecular in nature.

Process Parameters

Parameter	Specification
Deposition Environment	High-vacuum plasma chamber (10⁻⁵–10⁻⁶ bar) with controlled argon/hydrogen atmosphere
Plasma Temperature	4800–5100 K (approximating 4500°C)
Gold Feedstock	24k Au microgranules (purity ≥ 99.995%) particle size 10–20 µm
Nozzle Exit Pressure	40–60 bar (supersonic regime, Mach 2–3 equivalent velocity)
Deposition Rate	0.4–0.7 µm/min (depending on alloy surface temperature and absorption coefficient)
Target Temperature	Held at 380–420°C during active deposition for controlled diffusion
Cooling Phase	Cryogenic quenching at −180°C to stabilize molecular interface and reduce residual stress

Process Sequence

1. Surface Activation: The AstraLume™ substrate is cleaned with ionized argon plasma to remove all oxides, hydrocarbons, and surface contaminants. The surface energy is raised by approximately 150–200%, ensuring atomic receptivity for gold adhesion.
2. Plasma Melting: Pure gold microgranules are heated above their nominal melting point (1064°C) to a plasma phase at approximately 1950°C, ensuring full ionization and atomization.
3. Supersonic Acceleration: The molten gold is accelerated through a Laval-type plasma nozzle under 40–60 bar pressure, reaching impact velocities of 650–950 m/s.
4. Impact Fusion: Upon impact, gold atoms penetrate the activated microstructure of the tungsten–carbide matrix, interlocking with its crystalline boundaries and forming diffusion bridges at a depth of 50–120 nanometers.
5. Diffusion Layer Formation: During the brief 0.2–0.4 seconds of contact per pulse, atomic diffusion occurs, forming a continuous Au–W–Ni interfacial phase with no voids or delamination potential.
6. Cryogenic Solidification: After deposition, the component is rapidly cooled using liquid-nitrogen-based cryogenic quenching to lock the interface lattice and eliminate thermal expansion gradients.
7. Final Polishing: The fused gold surface is refined with diamond compound (≤1 µm particle size) to achieve optical-level reflectivity and uniform grain orientation.

Interfacial Structure

The resulting intermetallic interface is not a coating but a fusion layer - a transition zone approximately 0.3–0.5 µm thick where gold atoms are embedded within the outermost lattice of the AstraLume™ composite. Transmission electron microscopy confirms a diffusion gradient where gold concentration decreases gradually into the alloy substrate, ensuring structural continuity and eliminating boundaries typical of plated surfaces.

Interface Composition (EDS Analysis)

Element	Concentration (at.% near interface)	Role
Au (Gold)	70–85%	Primary layer; provides optical and chemical surface; partial diffusion into carbide matrix.
W (Tungsten)	8–12%	Forms transition intermetallics with gold; anchors the diffusion zone.
Ni (Nickel)	2–5%	Stabilizes metallic bonding and reduces interfacial stress gradients.
Fe + Co	1–3%	Improves adhesion strength through microstructural interlocking.

Physical and Mechanical Properties

Property	Measured Value
Adhesion Strength	>1600 MPa (ASTM C633 pull test equivalent)
Gold Layer Thickness	1.8–2.5 µm typical (variable by series)
Surface Hardness	~900 HV (due to carbide interlock beneath surface)
Thermal Stability	No delamination or discoloration up to 400°C continuous exposure
Corrosion Resistance	Absolute; inert to acids, salts, and oxidation
Surface Roughness (Ra)	< 0.05 µm after final diamond polishing
Electrical Conductivity	Comparable to pure gold (98–99%)

Advantages of AurumFusion™ vs Conventional Plating

Feature	AurumFusion™	Conventional Plating
Bond Type	Molecular / diffusion-based (intermetallic)	Electrostatic or adhesive layer
Adhesion Strength	>1600 MPa	~20–40 MPa typical
Thermal Resistance	Up to 400°C continuous, 800°C short-term	80–120°C before failure
Oxidation Resistance	Complete; gold–tungsten boundary is inert	Moderate; susceptible to discoloration
Microscopic Integrity	No voids or delamination	Visible layer separation under stress
Durability in Abrasion	Over 10× compared to electroplated gold	Soft surface easily worn

Final Characteristics

• Permanent metallurgical fusion of 24k gold with AstraLume™ substrate.
• Completely inert and oxidation-proof interface layer.
• No risk of delamination, flaking, or fading even under thermal cycling.
• Optical reflectivity equivalent to pure gold (ΔE < 0.5).
• Compatible with all non-ferromagnetic movements and assemblies.

The AurumFusion™ Plasma Deposition process redefines gold application in horology - transforming it from a decorative coating into a structural union of metal and light. Through precise control of temperature, pressure, and molecular diffusion, each case emerges as a singular alloyed entity: pure in appearance, indestructible in essence, and unmistakably crafted under the standards of Atelier von Feuerbach.

Forged Carbon Composite by Atelier von Feuerbach represents the culmination of high-pressure carbon fiber technology adapted for horological applications. Each carbon element is individually crafted using aerospace-grade fiber bundles and high-temperature epoxy resins, compressed under immense pressure within precision-machined steel molds. The result is a monolithic structure that combines the fluid aesthetics of forged composites with the structural integrity required for fine watchmaking.

Overview

The forging process begins with short-strand carbon fibers - the same type used in aerospace monocoques - blended with a thermoset polymer matrix. The material is then placed into a custom steel mold and subjected to temperatures exceeding 130°C and pressures over 200 bar. Under these conditions, the resin matrix flows and cures simultaneously, allowing carbon fibers to orient organically within the mold. The result is a unique, marble-like pattern in every component, ensuring that no two forged carbon cases are ever identical.

Manufacturing Process

1. Material Preparation: Pre-impregnated carbon fiber bundles (12K, aerospace grade T700/T800) are cut into short segments and mixed with a proprietary high-temperature epoxy matrix to ensure uniform fiber distribution.
2. Mold Placement: The carbon mixture is placed into a precision CNC-machined steel mold coated with a ceramic release layer for surface uniformity and dimensional accuracy.
3. Compression Phase: The mold is inserted into a hydraulic autoclave press, where it is exposed to 200–250 bar of pressure and heated to 130–150°C. The resin liquefies and uniformly penetrates the carbon network before curing under pressure.
4. Curing Cycle: Controlled heat ramp-up and dwell time (60–90 minutes) ensure even cross-linking of the epoxy resin, eliminating voids and achieving aerospace-grade density.
5. Post-Processing: Each forged blank is gradually cooled within the mold to prevent microfractures. Once released, it undergoes multi-axis CNC machining and micro-polishing to reveal the distinct carbon flow pattern.
6. Final Surface Treatment: Components are treated with a low-friction nanopolymer coating for UV resistance and deep, satin-like luster while maintaining the tactile feel of raw carbon.

Technical Specifications

Property	Value
Fiber Type	High-strength PAN-based carbon fiber (T700/T800 class)
Fiber Length	3–12 mm (random orientation)
Matrix Material	High-temperature epoxy resin (curing range 130–150°C)
Press Pressure	200–250 bar
Autoclave Temperature	130–150°C during curing cycle
Density	1.45–1.55 g/cm³
Flexural Strength	600–700 MPa
Tensile Strength	700–800 MPa
Modulus of Elasticity	55–65 GPa
Glass Transition Temperature (Tg)	≈ 180°C
Surface Finish	Hand-polished, satin matte or semi-gloss (Ra < 0.2 µm)
UV Resistance	Enhanced via nanopolymer surface treatment

Material Structure

Forged carbon differs from woven carbon fiber by using randomly oriented fiber bundles rather than a continuous fabric. This configuration creates isotropic mechanical properties - equal strength in all directions - while preserving the visual dynamism of chaotic carbon flow. Under magnification, the surface reveals a three-dimensional fiber interlock, each layer frozen mid-motion under extreme pressure.

Advantages

• Up to 30% lighter than titanium and significantly stronger than forged aluminum.
• Unique non-repetitive pattern - every piece is visually distinct.
• Superior dimensional stability under temperature and humidity variations.
• High fatigue resistance due to random fiber orientation and controlled resin cure.
• Inert to corrosion, oxidation, and chemical exposure.
• Soft tactile texture combined with aerospace-level structural rigidity.

Surface Finishing & Aesthetic

Each forged carbon case or component is hand-finished in multiple stages to balance visual depth and mechanical protection. Fine micro-polishing reveals the intricate marbling patterns formed during compression, while a matte nano-sealant provides resistance to fingerprints and ultraviolet degradation. The result is a surface that feels organic yet engineered - dark, lightweight, and unmistakably modern.

Forged Carbon Composite by Atelier von Feuerbach exemplifies controlled chaos - a material born under immense pressure, sculpted by heat, and perfected by hand. Its strength lies in its randomness, its elegance in its restraint. Each watch case forged in this material carries within it the same spirit of mechanical mastery that defines Atelier von Feuerbach.

AetherCeram™ Composite is Atelier von Feuerbach’s ultra-high temperature ceramic matrix composite - an aerospace-derived material reimagined for horology. Forged from rare refractory compounds and engineered through vacuum sintering and fiber reinforcement, it merges the aesthetic purity of ceramic with the structural resilience of advanced composites. Each AetherCeram™ component is produced in both Polar White and Obsidian Black variants, crafted from the same base chemistry, refined through controlled microstructural doping and surface oxidation processes.

Overview

AetherCeram™ belongs to the class of UHTCMCs - Ultra-High Temperature Ceramic Matrix Composites, capable of withstanding extreme heat and mechanical stress far beyond the limits of conventional zirconia or alumina ceramics. The material combines hafnium diboride (HfB₂) and silicon carbide (SiC) as the primary matrix, reinforced with short, oriented carbon fibers and doped with zirconium carbide (ZrC) to enhance stability and color control. The result is a composite that offers aerospace-level performance with a horological finish - smooth, luminous, and almost ethereal in texture.

Composition

Constituent	Function	Weight Ratio
Hafnium Diboride (HfB₂)	Primary matrix phase; provides ultra-high temperature capability and hardness; responsible for thermal emissivity and metallic luster.	40–45%
Silicon Carbide (SiC)	Co-matrix phase; improves oxidation resistance, reduces density, enhances fracture toughness.	30–35%
Zirconium Carbide (ZrC)	Dopant for color control and microstructural stability; increases crack deflection capability.	8–12%
Carbon Fiber Reinforcement (C-Fiber)	Short, randomly oriented carbon fibers (3–6 mm) that absorb shock energy and prevent brittle fracture.	5–8%
Binder and Glass Phase	Minimal trace (<2%) of silica-based binder to ensure densification during vacuum sintering.	<2%

Manufacturing Process

1. Powder Preparation: Ultrafine HfB₂ and SiC powders (grain size < 0.5 µm) are ball-milled under argon with zirconia spheres to ensure uniform blending, avoid oxygen contamination and to maintain sub-micron grain dispersion critical for ultra-high-temperature performance.
2. Fiber Integration: High-modulus carbon fibers are added and surface-treated with silicon to form a strong bond within the ceramic matrix.
3. Hot Pressing: The mixture is loaded into a graphite mold and subjected to 1800–2000 °C at 40–60 MPa under vacuum, initiating full densification through liquid-phase sintering.
4. Pressure-Assisted Silicon Infiltration (PASI): A secondary infiltration cycle introduces molten silicon that reacts in-situ to form SiC and fill remaining micropores, creating a near-zero-porosity structure.
5. Controlled Cooling: The composite is cooled under inert gas flow to prevent oxidation and internal stress cracking.
6. Precision Machining: Finished components are diamond-milled and polished to optical flatness (Ra < 0.05 µm) using multi-axis CNC machines in a dust-controlled chamber.

Physical and Mechanical Properties

Property	Value
Density	3.25 g/cm³ (approx. 45% lighter than steel)
Flexural Strength	950–1100 MPa
Fracture Toughness (KIC)	8.0–9.5 MPa·m1/2
Hardness (Vickers)	24–26 GPa
Elastic Modulus	380-420 GPa
Thermal Conductivity	65–90 W/m·K (depending on SiC continuity)
Oxidation Resistance	Stable up to 1800 °C in air due to SiC-derived protective glass layer
Color Variants	Polar White (zirconia-doped), Obsidian Black (carbon-enriched)
Magnetic Permeability	Non-magnetic (μ < 1.001)

Surface Finishing

AetherCeram™ components undergo multi-stage surface refinement. The outer layer is mechanically polished with diamond suspensions, followed by a plasma micro-etching step to expose and densify the near-surface ceramic grains. This produces a velvety sheen that refracts light softly, emphasizing the sculptural geometry of each watch case. Both Polar White and Obsidian Black variants maintain identical mechanical specifications - the difference lies solely in dopant coloration and final oxidation passivation.

Advantages

• Withstands temperatures exceeding 1800 °C without oxidation or deformation.
• Exceptional fracture toughness due to carbon-fiber reinforcement within a dense ceramic matrix.
• Polishable to a mirror or satin finish without loss of structural strength.
• Inert to all known forms of corrosion and chemical attack.
• Completely non-magnetic and electrically insulating.
• Unique thermal “softness” - warm to the touch despite its extreme heat tolerance.

Summary Specifications

Category	Specification
Material Class	UHTCMC (Ultra-High Temperature Ceramic Matrix Composite)
Base Matrix	HfB₂ + SiC + ZrC
Reinforcement	Short Carbon Fibers (Si-treated)
Manufacturing Method	Vacuum Hot Pressing + SiC Infiltration + Diamond Finishing
Max Operating Temperature	1800 °C (continuous in air)
Surface Roughness (Ra)	< 0.05 µm
Color Variants	Polar White / Obsidian Black
Corrosion Resistance	Total - inert in saline, acidic, and alkaline media

AetherCeram™ Composite transcends conventional ceramic engineering - a synthesis of fire, pressure, and precision. Developed at the intersection of aerospace science and haute horlogerie, it embodies the atelier’s relentless pursuit of materials that defy limitation. Smooth as porcelain, hard as a meteorite, and light as air - AetherCeram™ defines the ultimate ceramic standard of Atelier von Feuerbach.