In the hands of a Master

In conversation with Philip Sale, Asprey’s Master engraver

Photo: Milo Brown for Cabana

For 50 years, Master engraver Philip Sale has been leaving his mark on Asprey’s most exceptional creations. Beginning his career as an apprentice at Asprey’s workshop, Philip has become an integral part of Asprey’s craftsmanship and heritage. From engraving the iconic Premier League trophy to creating bespoke family crests and personalising signet rings with the finest initials, his work is a testament to the enduring art of hand engraving.

How did you first become a hand engraver, and how has your craft evolved over the years?

My journey began in 1974, when my father took me to meet an engraver who had decorated his pocket watch. The day after my 16th birthday, I started a five-year apprenticeship, beginning with simple cuts on copper plates before progressing to customers’ pieces. Engraving is a craft you develop through practice. Over time, your skills improve, your confidence grows and you take on increasingly complex work. Confidence is everything when it comes to engraving.

What distinguishes hand engraving from machine engraving?

Unlike machine engraving, which displaces the metal, traditional hand engraving removes it to create the design. I begin by marking out the design using powdered chalk, then trace it with a fine steel point before engraving with a graver – a small, handheld chisel that cuts into the metal. It's a meticulous process that requires a steady hand and a great deal of precision.

Photo: Milo Brown for Cabana

Is there a particular commission that stands out in your memory?

One of the most memorable was creating a replica of the America's Cup, a magnificent silver claret jug originally made in 1851. We had to recreate 130 years' worth of engraving, which kept four of us busy for around six months. The Victorian engravers were wonderfully elaborate with their lettering, sometimes incorporating eight different styles into a single inscription. It was an enormous undertaking, but a fabulous opportunity to work with lettering styles we rarely encounter today.

You've engraved the winning club's name on the Premier League Trophy every year since its inception in 1992. Does it still hold the same significance?

The trophy is like an old friend to me now. I remember engraving the very first logo back in 1992, which was a particularly special moment. From a technical perspective, the process is much the same as any other commission: carefully marking out the guidelines before engraving each new champion's name. But the trophy has always held a special place in my affections.

What possibilities does bespoke hand engraving offer?

Almost anything is possible, from simple initials and meaningful dates to intricate family crests, personal emblems and even detailed portraits. It really comes down to the client's vision and the nature of the piece itself. Some designs are more challenging than others, of course, but that's part of the pleasure of the craft.

How do you approach a bespoke engraving commission?

I work closely with the client and Asprey's design department to determine what will work best for each piece. Once we've agreed on the design, I carefully mark it out before engraving it entirely by hand. The character of the object is always an important consideration. Most pieces can be engraved, but the real skill lies in choosing the right lettering, scale and placement to complement the piece.

Asprey’s jewellery, watches and silver pieces can be hand engraved by our Master Engraver. Initials, names, messages, monograms or logos can be added to create a memorable and personal gift.

For Bespoke or Personalisation Enquiries, please contact our Concierge at +44 (0)20 7758 8588 or email concierge@asprey.com. Please note our concierge hours are Monday to Friday, 10am to 6pm UK time.

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