A London design studio has created a collection of automatic watches for which almost every visible element can be customised.
Objest, a business founded by product designer Jared Mankelow, specialises in creating objects inspired by London’s design, art, architecture, fashion and culture.
The company already sells a collection of customisable quartz-based watches, but wanted to develop a range of automatics containing Swiss-made movements.
The Hach+ automatic is made to order with customers able to customise the dial, the hour, minute and seconds hands, the rotor, hardware (case, crown and buckle), date window and straps.
This level of customisation means there are over one million possible designs to be made, the company says.
From designing each watch via the Objest website to delivery, each Hach+ automatic takes three weeks to be made and retails from £450.
“Offering a contemporary, Swiss-made design that is customisable seemed like the logical next step as consumers want to be more involved in the design of premium products and experiences,” says Mr Mankelow.
The Hach+ automatic keeps the simple, soft silhouette of the brand’s previous collection, but features an ETA 2824-2 automatic movement. The rounded edges and rolling surfaces make the 42mm case appear smaller, ensuring the design will appeal to men and women.
Double-domed sapphire glass emphasises the three-dimensional, criss-cross patterned dial which is made from one piece of metal. Each dial design has a two-tone colouration, adding texture and lustre. The hatch detailing of the caseback continues through into the rotor. Tailored strap junctions remove the need for lugs, keep the design clean and focus attention on the Italian leather strap.
“The Hach+ automatic remains true to Objest’s original aesthetic sensibilities: a genial, playful design combined with the finest materials and consummate Swiss craftsmanship,” says Mr Mankelow.
