Balzers, Liechtenstein, October 26, 2026 – Oerlikon introduces BALTONE ABSOLUTE BLACK, an advanced physical vapor deposition (PVD) coating that combines an ultra-deep black appearance with high hardness for scratch and wear resistance, reduced fingerprint visibility and low reflectivity while preserving the original metal surface texture. Applications range from luxury goods to automotive components, consumer products, medical instruments and sanitary fittings.
Different textures, one deep-black decorative PVD coating: BALTONE ABSOLUTE BLACK delivers uniform color while preserving individual surface details. Reduced fingerprint visibility and high resistance to scratches and wear support a lasting premium appearance.
For decades, manufacturers and designers across industries have faced the same challenge: achieving the desired depth of black without compromising the surface qualities needed for demanding applications and everyday use. Until now, conventional finishing solutions could achieve deep black, but only at the expense of coating durability. Even then, combining this appearance with reduced fingerprint visibility, low reflectivity and preservation of the original metal surface texture remained out of reach.
With BALTONE ABSOLUTE BLACK, Oerlikon has turned this long-standing industry ambition into reality.
Deep black designed for everyday use
BALTONE ABSOLUTE BLACK reduces the visibility of fingerprints, helping frequently handled components maintain their clean appearance.
The coating preserves the substrate’s fine textures and surface details. Polished, brushed, blasted and textured metal surfaces therefore retain their individual character after coating. The coating is engineered to maintain a uniform deep-black color, even across complex geometries.
Compared with state-of-the-art deep-black PVD solutions, BALTONE ABSOLUTE BLACK is three times harder, providing greater resistance to scratches and wear. It also reflects half as much light.
One coating, multiple design possibilities
BALTONE ABSOLUTE BLACK creates new design possibilities for premium metal components. Potential uses range from watches, writing instruments and high-end accessories to automotive interior components, medical instruments, consumer products and sanitary fittings.
The development of BALTONE ABSOLUTE BLACK demonstrates how Oerlikon translates customer requirements into industrial solutions through material science engineering.
Regulatory requirements and availability
BALTONE ABSOLUTE BLACK is engineered to comply with REACH and RoHS requirements and does not contain hexavalent chromium.
The PVD coating will be available worldwide through Oerlikon Balzers’ job coating service, with production initially based in Europe.
