Woodchip Design watch - WWII Bomber style

grabcad

This unique timepiece draws inspiration from vintage aviation clocks, specifically the LeCoultre/Wittnauer bomber dashboard clocks, offering a range of editions inspired by different eras. Each edition features reclaimed materials, such as brass and oak, marking them with authenticity while keeping prices accessible. The WWII edition boasts metalwork made from reclaimed vintage Jerry cans with a canvas strap from military pouches; the Victorian edition showcases reclaimed brass with wood sourced from letterpress stamps and a belt leather strap; while the Modern (Jack Daniels) edition flaunts satin black DLC-coated metalwork, oak from whiskey barrels, and whisky-tanned leather. The dial is crafted from brushed steel, featuring mirror-polish chamfers and engraving with infilled text. The blued steel hands are adorned with Superluminova C1 (white) luminous material for optimal visibility. For the movement, a standard ETA 6497-1 is suggested, although a high-beat 21.6kbph 6497-2 with screw balance, swan-neck regulator, and wide stripe Cotes de Geneve decoration would be ideal if budget allows. A custom skeleton movement was considered but deemed too costly. Instead, an exposed movement with a skeleton dial and visible fixings is chosen to enhance the mechanical feel. The construction uniquely uses an externally threaded movement ring, allowing direct attachment of the bezel and caseback with o-rings, sandwiching the rest of the case in place - reducing water-tight seals needed, similar to Panerai's vintage diving watches approach. The 26mm strap features a deployment clasp, unconventional stitch position, and attaches directly to the movement ring/main body using spring bars, allowing users to replace straps with custom options - a growing trend in luxury watches market. The domed plexi-glass crystal, reminiscent of many vintage watches, makes a comeback in this design. The sprung crown screws directly onto the movement ring/main body with o-ring seals. The wooden element is decorative only and secured by the bezel/movement ring construction and four socket screws. Movement credit goes to Steen Winther.