Since its very first watch was launched at an event in Cannes in 2014, Scottish watchmaker Kartel has been consistently producing simple classically designed timepieces and focusing on personal service with its growing cohort of customers.
Kartel only sells direct to its clients through one of its three stores in London’s Coal Drops Yard in Kings Cross; St James Quarter in Edinburgh and its original location on Church Street in St Andrews.
Watches are created in collections — with names linked to Scotland such as Blackmount, Knoydart, Blair and Cameron — but models in its signature automatic range have limited production runs of no more than 1,000 pieces, each individually numbered on the back.
These watches are always worth flipping over to take a look at the automatic Miyota movements with customised oscillating weights.
So reliable are the watches, that they come with five year guarantees, even though they can be bought for as little as £365 in the case of the 41mm Kartel Cameron automatics.
Quartz based Knoyart chonographs are even less at £295.
What Kartel really likes to talk about is the experience of personalising and buying one of its watches from its stores.
“Enjoy the journey of customisation and create a watch that goes beyond telling time — it becomes an expression of your unique style and personality,” the company insists.
New watches are almost created from scratch.
Customers start by choosing which case design they prefer before moving onto selecting from a vast range of steel bracelets or straps in leathers or fabrics.
Then the watch can be personalised with engraving done within each of the stores.
Throughout the experience, customers will be treated to Scottish hospitality including Kartel shortbread washed down with a selection of tea, coffee, whiskey or beer.
“Whether you’re commemorating a special occasion, expressing your personal style, or seeking a thoughtful gift, our build your own custom watch experience provides an exceptional opportunity to create a timepiece that reflects your individuality,” Kartel CEO Bobby Morrison promises.
