Main Project Plan : Designing My Own Watch Dial

If I had to define my approach to design, it would be a blend of creativity, functionality, and personal storytelling. For my final project in my aesthetics of design class, I’m combining my love for watches with my passion for hands-on creation by designing and assembling my own GMT watch. This project is deeply personal, inspired by my dad, who introduced me to the world of watches and has a particular fondness for GMT timepieces.

The heart of the watch will be the NH34 Seiko movement, a reliable and versatile engine known for its precision and GMT functionality. I’ll be sourcing a case and strap, but the centerpiece of the project will be the dial, which I’ll design and 3D print myself. This is where I can truly express my creativity, drawing inspiration from brands like Studio Underdog, Grand Seiko, and Rolex. Studio Underdog’s playful and innovative designs remind me that watches can be both functional and artistic. Grand Seiko’s dials, with their exquisite textures and attention to detail, inspire me to think about how light interacts with surfaces. And Rolex’s cases, with their timeless elegance and robustness, remind me of the importance of durability and wearability.

This project is more than just an exercise in design; it’s a tribute to my dad and the bond we share over watches. By creating something that reflects both my personal aesthetic and his love for GMT watches, I hope to craft a timepiece that tells a story—one of creativity, connection, and the enduring appeal of thoughtful design.

For the overall feel, I’m aiming for a sporty yet refined aesthetic. The GMT complication isn’t just a decorative feature—it’s a tool for tracking multiple time zones, a nod to practicality. The dial design, though creative, will prioritize readability and harmony, ensuring that the watch is as functional as it is beautiful. The case will be sturdy and versatile, designed to withstand everyday wear while maintaining a sleek, modern profile.

In the end, this watch will be a fusion of my dad’s influence, my own design sensibilities, and the timeless appeal of a well-crafted timepiece. It’s a project that celebrates the art of horology and the personal connections that make it so meaningful.

Sources :

https://underd0g.com/pages/01series-collection

https://www.gq.com/story/christopher-ward-trident-pro-300-gmt-new-watch-release

https://www.davidsonandlicht.com/rolex/yacht-master-37-m268622-0002

https://www.crafterblue.com/blogs/news/introducing-the-seiko-nh34-movment-the-rise-of-gmt-custom-watches

https://www.amazon.com/Tangyongjiao-Watch-Cases-Rolex-Colour/dp/B09CT3V2K2

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