CNC Diamond Cutting

What is CNC diamond cutting?

“Diamond-cut” describes that bright, mirror-like face you see on many modern wheels (often two-tone with painted inserts). We machine a wafer-thin layer from the wheel face on a computer-controlled lathe using a diamond-tipped tool, exposing fresh alloy for a sharp, uniform finish.

When to choose diamond cutting

• Refinishing factory diamond-cut wheels with curb rash or oxidation.
• Restoring two-tone styles that need a clean edge between the cut face and painted sections.
• Performance and luxury models (BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Tesla, Jaguar, etc.).

Not every wheel is suitable, and some designs allow only one or two safe cuts in their lifetime due to face thickness — we’ll inspect and advise before any machining.

CNC cut vs “diamond cut” vs polishing — what’s the difference

• CNC cutting = the machining process (robotic lathe, diamond tool, programmed path).
• Diamond cut = the crisp, high-shine finish produced by that CNC cut (often paired with paint/powder).
• Polishing = hand/buffing methods that smooth the surface but don’t create the same uniform, lathe-perfect cut lines.

Our process

1. Inspect & prep — We confirm the wheel is safe to cut and note thickness limits on the face profile.
2. Strip & clean — Tyre, weights and valve off; we pre-clean and, if needed, chemically strip or sandblast previous coatings.
3. CNC map & machine — The wheel is digitally mapped and cut on our in-house lathe; the diamond tip follows a precise path for an even, reflective finish.
4. Protective finish — Bare alloy is treated for anti-corrosion, then sealed with clear (often powder clear) or a tinted lacquer for contrast.
5. Refit & rebalance — Once cured, we refit the tyre and rebalance so you leave road-ready.

Typical turnaround: 2–3 days; full sets/complex jobs may take longer. Loan wheels or a courtesy vehicle are available — just ask.

Why our Grey Lynn workshop

• Computer-guided accuracy — consistent finish across all four wheels; hand methods can’t match it.
• In-house, specialist team — no mobile shortcuts; everything done by wheel technicians.
• Part of full restorations — we combine CNC cutting with repairs, paint or powder for factory-fresh results.
• Keep moving — loan wheels and loan vehicles available while we work (subject to availability).

FAQs

Can you fix curb rash on diamond-cut wheels?
Yes — most face rash, gouges and oxidation are removed during the cut. For bends/cracks, see our Bent & Cracked Wheel Repair before refinishing.

Will every wheel take a diamond cut?
No — some cast/older designs lack the face thickness or profile for a safe cut. We’ll inspect and recommend the right approach.

What clear coat do you use after cutting?
We protect the bare alloy with anti-corrosion treatment and seal with clear — powder clear in most cases, or a tinted lacquer for the two-tone look.

Ready to refresh your diamond-cut wheels?

Send a couple of photos for a fast quote, or swing by 6 King St, Grey Lynn. We’ll bring back that crisp, mirror-cut face with a durable, protected finish.