1. General Information
Since August 2016, with the launch of our updated web platform, we introduced the latest generation of Xtuners dials. This marks the 12th evolution of our products since 2004. The 10th generation was the first to fully meet OEM quality standards, and each generation since then has continued to refine both design and production quality.
In the following sections, we will walk you through the key stages of our production process. The images included illustrate the level of detail and quality we aim for. Click on any image to view it in high resolution (best viewed on HD laptop screens).
2. Dials Material
We use only premium-grade polycarbonate in our production. It is durable, flexible (but not soft), and resistant to heat and humidity. This is the same material used in OEM dial manufacturing and the only suitable choice for high-quality gauge faces. We primarily work with 0.47 mm, 0.7 mm, and 1 mm polycarbonate films in gloss, semi-gloss, and opal finishes.
3. Print Process
All Xtuners dials are produced using traditional screen printing — the same method used for original factory dials. This process is complex, time-consuming, and requires specialized know-how and professional equipment. However, it is the only technique capable of delivering the sharpness, durability, and color depth required for high-quality gauge faces.
Digital, UV, wax, or transfer printing cannot match the results of true screen printing, regardless of how advanced the equipment may be. Not every screen printing shop can achieve these results — over 15 years of experience in this specific field is what sets our work apart.
4. Cutting Process
We use a modified Trotec laser system, specially tuned for cutting polycarbonate materials. Unlike cheaper systems that leave cracked, jagged, or discolored (yellow/brown) edges, our laser delivers clean and precise cuts every time. The difference is dramatic — see the comparison images below.
Even the most complex shapes with ultra-fine details can be cut with ease. Precision fitment is always guaranteed.
5. Print Detail and Sharpness
We can print ultra-fine details with exceptional sharpness. While some companies claim high resolution using digital printers, their results often look like low-grade graphics compared to ours. We prefer to let our images speak for themselves — you decide who delivers the better quality. Note: our camera may not fully capture the sharpness of our prints.
The image above shows the Leeds United logo in the center of the dial. The graphic with the ball is only 3mm in diameter — this gives you a sense of the extreme detail we’re able to reproduce. Still not convinced? Let’s go further.
This test print shows a complex logo with very small tail detail. Note the single hair visible on the 20 km/h mark — we didn’t even notice it during shooting. Compare it to the snake’s smallest rhombus patterns to appreciate our resolution.
Inspect the BMW badge on the hood — it’s only 2mm in diameter. Look at the ultra-fine lines within it. Compare them to the dust particles on the gauge glass. The dust looks massive next to the badge lines. That should end the discussion — we think it’s enough proof.
6. Color Choices
We work with RAL and PANTONE base colors, custom shades, and special effect inks. Our screen printing process allows us to apply patterns and effects that are simply impossible to reproduce using digital printing. For example, we can offer:
- Fluorescent colors
- Pearl, silver, gold, and copper effects
- Interference inks with color-shifting properties
- Wet and dry carbon fiber effects
7. Warn Lights Symbols
We do our best to replicate OEM-style warning lights as accurately as possible. The images above show examples of black dials with blacked-out warning symbols, which are nearly invisible when not illuminated.
On white or carbon-style dials, warning symbols appear like this:
8. Dials Finish and Surface
We print on both sides of the polycarbonate film. The detailed process will be explained in another topic soon. The printed surface is smooth and consistent, without any noticeable steps or uneven layering between different inks. One exception is with white or silver dials, where more ink is needed for opacity. In such cases, minor overlapping of ink layers might be visible — just like on many OEM white dials.
Since early 2016, we offer two types of protective matte overprint varnishes. These are printed as a top layer and serve as a shield against UV rays, moisture, and dirt. The two finish options are:
- Deep matte finish (used by default)
- Semi-gloss finish (used for special projects or to replicate OEM semi-gloss dials)
In 2020, we upgraded the matte coating with added scratch resistance. Of course, any dial can be scratched if mishandled, but if you're careful during installation, you'll have no issues.
9. Dials Illumination
Since early 2020, we offer three main types of dials based on their compatibility with lighting systems:
- Replacement plasma dials
- Standard replacement dials optimized for factory bulb or LED illumination
- Custom dials optimized for aftermarket LED upgrades (LED boards or LED strips)
What are plasma dials?
Plasma dials are identical to our standard dials, but with one major difference — they have electroluminescent glow panels attached to the backside. These panels are precision cut to shape and provide soft, uniform backlighting. They are dimmable and can be replaced in the future if they lose brightness or become damaged.
Plasma dials work independently from the factory illumination and are a great solution for older vehicles where LED retrofits are not possible. However, they come with some limitations — fewer color options (no true white, for example) and a shorter lifespan of around 3–5 years, after which the glow foils need to be replaced.
Examples of plasma dials:
In some projects, the use of plasma dials is the only viable solution — especially where internal components or space constraints make LED upgrades impossible.
Standard non-plasma dials can be adapted for either factory or aftermarket lighting. We can print special light-reducing rasters on the back so they work well with the factory illumination. Alternatively, we can skip the rasters if you plan to use your own LED boards or LED strips.
Examples of dials optimized for factory LED illumination:
Examples of dials optimized for factory bulb illumination:
Example of dials optimized for aftermarket LED illumination:
10. Custom Made Dials
We can produce dials for virtually any vehicle — from modern sports cars to classic and vintage models. We truly enjoy working on custom projects, and we welcome your ideas, sketches, or design requests.
Almost anything is possible — whether it’s a complete redesign, a replication of rare OEM graphics, or a unique concept created from scratch. Just share your vision with us, and we’ll provide an individual offer based on the complexity and production time of the project.
Please keep in mind that custom work always requires additional time and costs. We’ll inform you about the estimated lead time and pricing before starting the project.
11. Product Pricing
We hope all the information above helps potential customers understand what makes our dials different from anything else on the market. Xtuners dials are in a class of their own — with no direct equivalent in terms of craftsmanship, materials, and attention to detail.
As with everything handmade and high-end, quality comes at a price. We don’t aim to compete with low-cost, mass-produced alternatives. Others may offer cheaper dials, but they cannot match the quality, accuracy, or reliability of our products.
Since October 2018, we have introduced quantity discounts. This allows resellers and bulk buyers to benefit from a balanced price/quality ratio while still receiving the same premium-grade product. Feel free to contact us if you are interested in wholesale or larger orders.