Discover the All-New Temporal Works Series A: A Watch by The Armoury
What happens when style visionaries Mark Cho and Elliot Hammer, the founder and creative director of The Armoury, decide to launch their own watch brand? Let’s dive into our hands-on review of the exciting Temporal Works Series A collection.
The Armoury’s Dive into Watchmaking
If you’re not familiar with The Armoury, it’s a high-end menswear retailer with locations in Hong Kong and New York, showcasing an impressive selection of ready-to-wear, bespoke, and custom clothing. Check out their offerings on their official website here.
After several successful collaborations with notable brands like Ressence, Cartier, and H. Moser & Cie., The Armoury is stepping into the spotlight with their very own watch brand, Temporal Works. Launching with the Series A line, this collection features three stunning watches that you won’t want to miss.
Meet the Series A Model
Upon first glance at the Temporal Works Series A, you might experience a familiar feeling. Whether it’s the recognition of a classic case design or the impression that it resembles a new offering from an emerging brand, one thing is certain—it’s captivating!
Patek Philippe Calatrava ref. 565 — Image: Amsterdam Vintage Watches
An Iconic Inspiration: The Patek Philippe Ref. 565
If you’re thinking of the classic Patek Philippe Calatrava ref. 565, you’re right on point! Even if the case design initially escapes you, its vintage charm evokes the elegance of timepieces from the 1940s and 1950s.
First introduced in 1938, the Calatrava 565 remained in Patek’s catalog until the 1950s, earning high accolades from collectors. With its polished top, flat crown, and satin-finished profiles, the Temporal Works Series A seems to pay homage to this revered reference.
A Perfectly Proportioned 37mm Dress Watch
For those who might overlook the design origins, recognize this: the Series A is a stylish 37mm dress watch, and its Japanese craftsmanship sets it apart from many small brands. Most components, including the case and dial, are meticulously crafted in Japan, ensuring top-notch finishing.
The Series A showcases gorgeous lacquered red Fortune and sector dials in blue or black/gray. Notably, high-precision Zaratsu polishing enhances the case’s shine, creating a striking aesthetic.
Curved Case Profile for Comfort
The Series A features a beautifully curved case profile that enhances wearability. Unlike the slightly straight design of the Patek Philippe 565, this watch has lugs that embrace the wrist. It’s crafted with a stainless steel “monobloc” case—although it has a screw-in case back, which might technically stray from the monobloc definition.
Stunning Dial Options
The dials and hands are equally impressive. Personally, I’ve enjoyed wearing the black-dial version; its sector dial creates a captivating effect as light interacts with it. The unique diagonal satin finish gives this watch character and depth.
This diagonal finish creates a mesmerizing visual illusion of shifting sectors on the dial, enhancing its beauty with every glance. The central part of the dial further deepens in tone depending on lighting conditions, adding to its allure.
The blue variant exhibits the same striking effect, while the Fortune watch stuns with its unique red lacquered finish, a true standout.
As a fountain pen enthusiast, I have a newfound appreciation for the nib-inspired hand design. The faceted hands are polished to perfection, ensuring readability even in low-light environments. The minute hand aligns with the sector dial’s minute track, while the hour hand accurately points to its markers.
Powerful Movement: Sellita SW210-1 D4
At the heart of the Temporal Works Series A lies the Sellita SW210-1 movement. This hand-wound caliber boasts a 42-hour power reserve and operates at 28,800 vibrations per hour. Importantly, Temporal Works has chosen the D4 iteration, representing the highest finishing quality from Sellita. The D4 features Côtes de Genève on the bridges, perlage on the base plates, and blued screws, ensuring reliability and aesthetic appeal. While the movement is hidden behind a solid steel case back, rest assured that it has received meticulous attention to detail.
Stylish and Resizable Mesh Bracelet
Each watch comes equipped with a luxurious calf leather strap from Jean Rousseau, a respected name in the watch industry since 1954. For an added touch of versatility, an optional 19mm stainless steel mesh bracelet is also available, featuring a butterfly clasp and customizable size options for a perfect fit.
Collaboration with Staib
Developed in partnership with Staib, a renowned manufacturer of mesh bracelets, this stunning piece features four 4.5mm-long links for easy resizing. Brands like Breitling and Omega also trust Staib for their impeccable craftsmanship. For just an additional $250, snagging this versatile bracelet is a smart move!
While I typically lean towards leather straps, the 3.6mm-thin mesh bracelet offers a comfortable wear. However, the supple calfskin strap remains my favorite choice, complete with a beautifully crafted pin buckle.
Retailing at $2,500, the Temporal Works Series A delivers exceptional value. Combining exquisite design, the reliable Swiss SW210-1 D4 movement, and impressive Japanese finishing, this watch stands out in its price range. Mark Cho and Elliot Hammer have clearly poured their expertise into this venture.
Ultimately, whether you choose the sector dial or the stunning red lacquer option is all about personal taste. I, for one, can’t wait to see what Series B has in store!
For more details on the Temporal Works Series A, check it out here.