This is the time of year when watchmakers look to grab headlines with limited editions and expand their client reach through interesting collaborations.
TAG Heuer teamed with Time+Tide for the introduction of a limited edition Aquaracer Solargraph, which sold out in under 24 hours.
Audemars Piguet is using the same tactic in its partnership with modern artist KAWS for a Royal Oak Concept that will already have been pre-sold before it melted Instagram this morning.
These special editions are designed to catch the eye at this crucial time of year, but perhaps the most important collaboration to cross the desk of WatchPro this week is between Watches of Switzerland, one of the world’s largest and most powerful retailers, and Struthers, an artisan British watchmaker with a peerless reputation for crafting some of the finest and rarest timepieces every produced in this country.
The collaboration is part of Watches of Switzerland’s centenary celebrations in 2024, and also fits with its push into working with more high-end independent watchmakers.
Craig & Rebecca Struthers, co-founders of their eponymous watch brand, have made a one-of-a-kind 36mm timepiece that is hand-finished using a traditional Pultra lathe in 18ct gold.
Its Struthers “Kingsley” case houses a modified Valjoux 90, a hand-would movement that was first made back in the 1940s and carries a special triple calendar dial with 24ct gold decoration on its moonphase by Wiltshire-based gun engraver Sam Faraway, who also handled the finishing of the movement.
One of the aims for the project was to bring together artisans, small workshops and industry experts whilst also introducing new people to their crafts.
Watches of Switzerland’s original logo from 1924 is etched in gold into the jet black dial around the moon phase at 6 o’clock.
Rebecca Struthers says the collaboration between artisans and Watches of Switzerland was had instant appeal.
“We’ve always loved a challenge, so we set about creating a watch that would stay true to our values and be a tribute to the historic retailer/watchmaker partnerships that have created so many inspirational dial designs,” she explains.
Craig Bolton, president of Watches of Switzerland Group UK & Europe adds: “We are honoured that esteemed independent watchmakers Craig and Rebecca Struthers were able to create this unique piece for the business. They have created a timepiece that reflects our shared values to preserve the rich heritage of watchmaking, unifying traditional techniques with modern innovation. One lucky client will be able to purchase a piece of our history, courtesy of two of the best British watchmakers of our generation.”
Only one watch has been produced. The future auction classic is priced at £72,000 (approx. $78,000) .