TIME ZONE
By Celine Simon
A
Material Matters
Aside from design, features, and movements, a big area watch brands focus on is materials. What a watch is made of is integral to how it fits, feels, and functions. In recent years, watch companies have invested heavily in new materials that go beyond traditional metals such as steel, gold, and platinum. We’re seeing more timepieces fashioned from cutting-edge materials, such as
carbon composites, ceramics, titanium, and even upcycled elements. What’s more, watchmakers are experimenting with creating alloys out of gold to produce new hues and tougher metals. Whether used on cases, bracelets, dials, or bezels, there are plenty of modern materials to discover among today’s watches. Upcycled & Recycled Materials As sustainability becomes increasingly import- ant, some watch brands are looking for creative ways to lessen their impact on the environment. As such, watches can include components made of either upcycled or recycled materials. For instance, dials can be fashioned from melt- ed-down fishing nets or recycled plastic bottles. Alternatively, there are watch companies that use alloys composed of metal scraps for cases and bracelets or rely on recycled nylons and oth- er fabrics for straps.
Carbon Composites Carbon fiber has long been a favorite material in the aerospace and automotive worlds, prized for its appealing combination of lightness, strength, and distinctive appearance. Watches are now incorporating carbon composite materials (a mix of carbon fiber with other materials), which not only results in tough and durable watches but striking designs too. Watch companies can use various methods to create carbon fiber-reinforced materials depending on the specific characteristics and overall look they’re going for.
Titanium The use of titanium to make watches has increased significantly over the last few years thanks to its lightweight, durable, and corrosion-resistant properties. Titanium is both lighter and stronger than stainless steel, making it an ideal material to craft watches—particularly sporty ones that may be subject to harsher conditions.
Left: Breitling Chronomat B01 42 Center: Tudor Pelagos FXD Chrono Right: Oris x Bracenet Aquis Date
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