Always big on minimalism at Maven, the brand has doubled down on brutalism this time, with its new Brut watch launch.
With an aim to balance both form and function, the timepiece is inspired by the forms and structures associated with the architecture movement, which emerged in the 1950s.
Characterised by its rigid geometric style and ‘blocky’ – for want of a better word – appearance, Brutalist architecture rose from the post-war reconstruction of the United Kingdom and was implemented into the design of social housing projects, universities and car parks.
However, it wasn’t confined to just the UK, spreading across all corners of the world including Hong Kong – the birthplace of Maven.
The style was recognised as being honest and simple, providing an accessible gateway for people of all backgrounds.
In the decades since, this approach to architectural design has become increasingly revered and recognised for its honest degree of charm and unquestionable functionality.
Inspired by the Brutalist movement and the thought process of many of its pioneers, Maven’s ‘Brut’ watch shares many similarities with the idea in regards to its ideology and final form.
As well as acting as an instrument to tell the time, the watch seeks to keep the values of Brutalism alive despite the ongoing demolition of such structures for what is deemed to be an unsightly appearance.
Maven has done this in a number of ways, one of them being the prioritisation of showcasing the bare materials and structural elements over decorative design.
Instantly identifiable with Maven’s identity, the ‘Brut’ watch is composed of simple geometric shapes with a circular face sitting inside a square frame, something that is considered somewhat of a rarity in the field of watches.
To replace the usual dial markers, Maven has implemented sun-dial-like engraved stick markers around the watch face that compliment the form follows function theme.
Like other Maven timepieces, the ‘Brut’ watch features sapphire crystal glass (a material known for its scratch-proof nature) for the watch face, Japanese quartz movement and a premium Italian leather strap that ages with grace over time and develops a beautiful patina.
The watch is available in two colours, Graphite and Silver.
