The Blueprint Process: Idea to Wrist

Most people ordering a custom iced out watch have no idea what they're getting into. They send a watch to a jeweler, get a quote, and hope for the best. Bad Empire's Blueprint process was built specifically to eliminate that uncertainty. You see exactly what your watch looks like before a single stone is touched.

Step 1: The Vision ($500 Deposit)

Everything starts with a conversation and a $500 deposit. Tell us:

• The base watch (or we source it for you)
• Which areas to flood — bezel only, dial + bezel, full bust-down
• Stone preference — moissanite, VVS diamonds, or mixed
• Any specific color stones or accent details

The $500 is non-refundable but applied in full to the final cost of your piece.

Step 2: The CAD Render

Dillon James Jewelry's design team creates a high-precision 3D blueprint of your piece. This is not a rough sketch — it's a production-accurate model showing stone placement, carat weight, and final look. You can see every stone. You can ask for adjustments. We revise until it's exactly right.

This step takes 5–10 business days.

Step 3: Approval & 50% Production Deposit

Once you approve the render, production begins. At this point, a 50% deposit on the total cost is collected. The balance is due on completion before the piece ships or is handed over.

Step 4: Production

NYC master jewelers begin the setting work following the approved Blueprint exactly. Typical production timelines:

• Bezel + dial flood1–2 weeks
• Full bracelet flood2–4 weeks
• Complete bust-down4–6 weeks

Step 5: QC & Delivery

Before the piece leaves the bench: movement test, water resistance check (where applicable), and a final stone inspection under loupe. Then photos and video are sent to you before shipping or pickup at Booth 33.