Manufacturer · Fashion & Home Accessories
The Polkom metal finish colour chart contains 147 codes in three series – P (lacquer and effect finishes), G (gloss and mirror) and M (satin, matt, antique, patina and mirror tones). Each colour has its own code, for example PK-M76-B, with which you order an identical finish for buttons, snap buttons, eyelets, rivets and buckles. The process is simple: choose the code in the colour chart, approve a physical sample and record the code in every order.
What the metal finish colour chart contains
| Series | Codes | What it includes | Versions by metal |
|---|---|---|---|
| P | PK-P01 – PK-P42 | lacquer and effect finishes: black and white, pearl metallic, glitter, brushed lacquers, patina, marble, splatter | one version – the lacquer covers the metal completely |
| G | PK-G01 – PK-G21 | gloss and mirror finishes: silver, gold, rose gold, copper, gunmetal, graphite | B (brass) and A (zinc alloy) |
| M | PK-M01 – PK-M84 | satin, matt, antique, worn and patinated tones, plus additional mirror shades | B (brass) and A (zinc alloy) |
So the chart holds 252 samples in total: 42 from series P and two versions for each of the 105 codes in series G and M.
How to read the code
Each code consists of four parts. Example: PK-M76-B.
- PK – the code comes from the Polkom colour chart.
- M – the series: P, G or M.
- 76 – the tone number within the series. Here: Dark antique brass.
- B – the base metal: B is brass, A is zinc alloy. Series P has no letter.
The letter matters because the same finish looks different on the two metals – on brass it is usually warmer, while on zinc alloy it may be lighter or greyer. So always state the full code.
Which series to look at first
- Series M – for most garments. Here you find the satin silver and gold tones, antique brass, bronze, copper and gunmetal, which stand up well to daily wear and washing.
- Series G – when you want a clear shine: mirror silver and gold, rose gold, gloss gunmetal. Suitable for eveningwear, bags and small accents.
- Series P – when you want a colour that metal alone cannot give: black and white, pearl and glitter effects, patina, marble.
If the collection already has an approved tone, for example for zips or buckles, start from the closest code and compare directly with the accessory, not with a photo.
From the chart to an approved sample – step by step
- Preliminary selection online. Browse the chart and note two or three codes that suit the collection. The image is only a guide.
- Inquiry with the codes. Send the codes, the articles they are for and the quantities. We confirm which codes are possible for each article.
- Physical sample. We make samples of the chosen finishes, on the actual article where possible.
- Approval against the fabric. Compare the sample with the fabric, thread and other accessories in daylight and under shop lighting.
- Record in the tech pack. Write the full code, for example PK-M76-B, against each metal item.
- Reference. Keep the approved sample. It is the reference for all subsequent batches.
One code for all metal parts
The chart's biggest advantage is that the same code can be used for different articles. An example for a jacket in dark antique brass:
| Position | Article | Code | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Front placket | snap buttons | PK-M76-B | stamped brass |
| Pockets and cuffs | metal buttons with relief | PK-M76-A | cast model – approve next to the snap button |
| Hood | eyelets and cord ends | PK-M76-B | cord opening according to cord thickness |
| Pocket corners | rivets | PK-M76-B | optional |
| Belt | metal buckle | PK-M76-A | cast buckle |
When one style combines brass and zinc alloy, approve the two versions of the code side by side. If the difference shows, we will suggest a neighbouring tone for one of the positions.
Why you shouldn't approve colour on screen
Metal reflects light, so a photo of the sample depends on the lighting, angle and camera, and the colour on screen depends on the monitor settings. Mirror finishes suffer most: in a photo they can look almost white or almost black. The online chart is handy for a preliminary selection, but the final decision is always made on a physical sample. If you work with a team or a production unit, send them the same approved sample, not a photo or just the code.
Batches and repeat orders
Electroplated and antique finishes have a natural tolerance between batches – especially tones where the dark layer is wiped off by hand or mechanically. To limit the differences:
- for a repeat order, quote the code and the previous order number so we work to the same reference;
- do not mix accessories from different batches on one garment;
- order the items for one style at the same time whenever possible;
- keep the approved sample in a closed bag, in a dry place away from moisture, so its surface does not change.
Not every code for every article
Some finishes require a particular metal, shape or surface. Brushed effects, for example, need a smooth area, and some models are made only in brass or only in zinc alloy. That is why we always confirm the article–code combination when you inquire. Minimum quantities also depend on the article and the finish.
All metal finishes in the chart – all 147 codes and both versions B and A – are nickel free. Names reminiscent of nickel or chrome describe the colour only.
Samples and orders from the manufacturer
Polkom is a manufacturer of metal accessories for fashion, furniture, footwear and bags with over 30 years of experience. Choose codes from the colours and finishes, send them with the articles via the inquiry form, and we will prepare samples for approval.
