Method and apparatus for high resolution sensing of engraving stylus movement for dynamic control of an engraving machine while engraving, improved calibration and as a tool used to assist in selecting acceptable gravure cylinders and improving the manufacturing process of making gravure cylinders is described. A variety of sensors are described in conjunction with measuring engraving stylus movement, specifically, sensors that measure small changes in capacitance, resistance, impedance, optical reflections, optical interference patterns, induced eddy currents and voltages induced in a two-material piezoelectric rod which corresponding to positional changes of the engraving stylus.