The novel hard-coated polyester membrane with stainless steel optic grants surfaces of input and control systems the appearance of brushed stainess steel. In comparison to stainless steel, after operation no fingerprints are left behind. The membrane also resists very well against abrasion, splicing and scores of chemicals and solvents. In this way, front panels can be produced at considerably low costs but exude anyway the same quality rating like stainless steel. The membranes can be embossed easily because of their special flexibility, what permits additional design freedom such as embossed buttons. Here stainless steel buttons would need separate components, whereas “stainless steel membranes” can integrate buttons easily and create a full sealed surface. Depending on the application, another benefit can be that the membrane (with the same optics) is electronically isolated in contrast to stainless steel.