Additive Manufacturing (AM) is unlocking new creative and technological possibilities in the jewelry, watch, and eyewear industries. It enables the production of complex designs, customized components, and innovative materials – efficiently and flexibly. AM complements traditional manufacturing methods and drives innovation in industries undergoing transformation.
New possibilities for design and production
Jewelry, watches, and eyewear are industries defined by high standards in aesthetics, precision, and individuality – and this is exactly where Additive Manufacturing (AM) sets new benchmarks. It allows for the creation of intricate structures, complex geometries, and personalized designs directly from digital models – efficiently, sustainably, and economically, even in small batches. At the same time, AM opens up new possibilities in design and functionality, while also posing challenges in post-processing, surface quality, and reproducibility to meet the demands of the luxury and lifestyle sectors.
In this webspecial, we explore the targeted use of AM in jewelry, watchmaking, and eyewear. On this page, you’ll find concise insights, inspiring real-world examples, and the latest developments – all centered around a technology that bridges tradition, innovation, and personalization.
Here’s what we’ve put together for you:
Whitepaper – 3D Printing in jewelry, watch & eyewear manufacturing
In our whitepaper “The appearance is not deceiving: 3D Printing in jewelry, watch and eyewear manufacturing”, you’ll discover how Additive Manufacturing creates targeted value across these three industries. We highlight key advantages of the technology, present practical application examples, provide insights into relevant materials, and explore future developments that combine design, functionality, and customization.
Covered in 7 chapters:
- Advantagees of Additive Manufacturing for jewelry, watches, and eyewear production
- Overview of materials and technologies
- Three use cases
- Future prospects and challenges
- Five points to consider when applying 3D Printing in eyewear, watches, or jewelry manufacturing
Formnext Technology Talks – our new digital webinar series
Step beyond the trade show calendar with our engaging webinar series! Each session dives into a key focus topic, offering a fast-paced, insightful talk featuring the latest market trends, fresh industry insights, practical solutions, and direct interaction with leading experts.
Technology Talk jewelry, watches, and eyewear
30 October 2025 I 4:00 – 5:00 PM (CEST) I Zoom Meeting
On 30 October we warmly invite you to our next Technology Talk. Look forward to an inspiring session featuring expert presentations on the latest trends, innovative applications, and challenges surrounding the use of Additive Manufacturing in the jewelry, watchmaking, and eyewear industries:
- Davide Sher, CEO VoxelMatters
Talk: Market report & moderation
- Matteo Giantin, Head of Innovation Division for AM, Progold S.p.A.
Talk: Innovative printing strategy for high-resolution jewelry production by Selective Laser Melting
Abstract of the presentation
The company history on Selective Laser Melting (SLM) dates back to about a decade ago. Over the course of the years, the research has touched several topics to evaluate the general performance of this recent jewelry manufacturing process, starting from parameter selection to particle-size distribution and flowability to obtain denser items and uniform powder layers. This was followed by trace additions of semiconductor elements (Ge, Si) to increase the laser absorption as well as changing the structure of the support systems that led to a significant reduction in roughness and residual porosity. Other research has compared the traditional lost-wax investment process to selective laser melting in producing typical decorative details or platinum jewelry and demonstrated the opportunity of the printing process as a magic pot to produce outstanding hard, white-gold alloys with very unusual elements (Nb, Ti) and that have a milder environmental impact.
The aim of this research was studying how to increase printing resolution to allow the manufacture of jewelry items having very sharp and detailed decorative structures and elements. This advantage would make laser printing not only much more competitive with respect to direct investment casting, but would also allow for producing innovative and complex geometries with larger size, less weight and better mechanical strength. In addition, the greater stability derived from higher resolution could allow a better finish on the jewelry.
- Thomas Lehman, Designer
Talk: Creativity Unbound
Abstract of the presentation
Analog Lab
Analog Lab is a Milan- and Seattle-based design studio founded by American designer, inventor, and strategist Thomas Lehman. For over 20 years, Thomas and his team have created brands, design strategies, and products for leading companies such as Ferrari, Nike, and Prada.
Amano+
Our 3D-printed watch project, Amano+, grew from Thomas’s lifelong curiosity and passion for working at the edge of creative process. Trained as both a designer and jeweler—and an early adopter of 3D printing—Thomas first experimented with the technology using one of the original Makerbots in Brooklyn. Since then, our team has applied 3D printing across furniture, lighting, and accessories, culminating in this deeply personal exploration of modern horology.
What Amano+ Means
Amano means “by hand,” reflecting our belief that every project begins through craft and intuition. The “+” represents our forward-thinking use of 3D printing technology—merging handcraft and innovation into a single creative vision.
Our Journey
Over the past three years, we’ve collaborated closely with Legor and HP to develop one of the first fully 3D-printed stainless steel timepiece collections: the A+ Arc Collection. Designed and produced in Milan, it embodies a “Made in Italy” spirit—melding cutting-edge technology with timeless craftsmanship.
Why 3D Printing
We’re reimagining what’s possible in a traditional and often static category. By using HP’s binder jet process, each watch body gains a distinctive texture and form that makes every timepiece truly one of a kind. Post-processed by CNC, hand-finished, and assembled with meticulous care, each Amano+ piece reflects a balance of advanced engineering and artisanal precision.
Sustainability and Innovation
Our partnership with HP and Legor enables us to design with recyclable materials, minimize waste, and celebrate the natural beauty of the 3D stainless steel printing process itself—producing forms impossible through conventional methods.
Tailored Time
Every Amano+ timepiece is brought to life by our clients through our online configurator, allowing each customer to personalize their own “tailored time.” Each piece becomes a collaboration between maker and wearer—a truly bespoke expression of design and individuality.
What’s Next
Now in our pre-launch phase after years of development and testing, we’re excited to debut our first collection and explore even more ambitious designs. Amano+ represents design without limitations—a growing lifestyle brand that fuses evolving technology with the excellence of Italian craft.
- Lucas Friedfeld, Operations Specialist, Tech Print Industries (TPI)
Talk: The future of eyewear in Additive Manufacturing
Abstract of the presentation
The evolution of TPI and how democratization of design and a new type of factory model reshaped eyewear production
Three short stories highlighting different customer groups and applications:
- Minima – partnership story and resulting benefits
- Journey Frame – design evolution and production innovation
- Small boutique/designer & smart eyewear – the value of on-demand, scalable manufacturing
Conclusion: a look ahead at how TPI is building the next generation of eyewear through software integration
Fon Mag Special jewelry & watches
Responding to changes in a noble niche
The jewelry industry is undergoing a transformation – toward greater flexibility, customization, and smaller production volumes. Italian company Legor is driving the adoption of Additive Manufacturing in jewelry production through binder jet technology and innovative materials. In our special feature in Issue 2/2025, we present the latest solutions, challenges, and future perspectives shaping this evolving sector.