Black nickel

Surface finish

Black nickel gives hardware a dark surface with good moisture resistance. The surface contains nickel, not suitable for allergy sufferers. Browse black nickel hardware.

Products: Black nickel

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How black nickel is made

Electroplated: the hardware passes through a bath where an electric current deposits a thin layer of nickel with a dark, slightly smoky tone on the surface. It's still metal with a metallic sheen: no paint, no lacquer.

What it gives the product

A dark, muted look that doesn't feel as stark as matte black or reflect light like chrome. Along with that, good protection against moisture for everyday outdoor use.

When to choose it and when not to

Suits dark leather and black or grey webbing. Watch out for nickel allergy: the layer contains it right on the surface. For customers with sensitive skin, reach for matte black (nickel-free) or black chrome (nickel only in the underlayer) instead.

How it ages

It dulls slightly over time, and at friction points (a buckle edge, contact with a ring) the layer can slowly wear through to the base metal. For heavily stressed products, black chrome is more durable.

What it pairs with

Combine it with other hardware in the same finish for a matched product; the contrast with cognac leather works very well too.

  • Look

    Dark / black

    Black or dark graphite surface, matte, glossy or satin depending on the specific finish. Creates a low-contrast combination with dark straps and a clear contrast with pale colours.

  • Abrasion resistance

    Low

    Thin decorative coating that gradually wears through with regular wear and friction. Wear appears first where a buckle or snap contacts the strap, ring or fur.

  • Corrosion protection

    Dry conditions

    Provides a temporary barrier against moisture. Works well in dry environments, but protection weakens over time with regular contact with water or sweat.

  • Nickel

    Yes

    Nickel is present in the surface layer that can come into contact with skin. This finish is not suitable for people or animals with a known sensitivity to nickel.

    Nickel release test (abrasion method PN 93 0021, AZL Otrokovice testing laboratory): pass, within the limit of 0.5 µg/cm² per week used by EU regulation. test report (PDF, in Czech)

Damp conditions Occasional rain Tolerates occasional contact with rain, wet grass or damp hands. Regular soaking accelerates visible wear, so dry the surface after it becomes wet.
Aging Wear at contact points At points of regular friction (typically the buckle edge, snap contact point or strap) the finish gradually wears through and the base material shows beneath.
Process Galvanic Metal layer applied by electric current in a bath. An even, thin and well-adhered coating: the most widespread method for surface finishing of metal parts.