Custom watches are expensive. If you want a blacked-out Rolex or some cool, unique dialled take on a Zenith then you’re going to be looking at a serious premium on top of the already pricey vanilla timepiece. It’s why, if you have a striking new colourway in mind that you’re dying to see on your wrist, you either need to pony up or miss out. There is however a third option, one that’s been gaining some serious traction over the past few years: UNDONE watches.
Established in 2014 by vintage watch collector Michael Young, UNDONE was created to fill the void for an affordable approach to custom timepieces and has come on leaps and bounds in the years since. They’re not prestige watches by any stretch of the imagination, but when it comes to creating the watch of your dreams without breaking the bank, they’re an incredibly appealing option.
The customisation process starts with one of six models, depending on the breed of watch you’re expanding on. The Aqua II, as the name suggests, is a solid diver with all the necessary credentials (including 200m water resistance) while the Aero is a technical-looking aviator number, complete with clear numerals and iron sights. The Terra opts for a cushion case and vintage military vibe while the Basecamp tackles the classic Explorer style. Finally, the retro-slanted Urban comes in two different size variations, a diminutive, feminine 34mm and a more unisex 40mm.
Each has its own distinctive style innately tied to its horological archetype, but they wouldn’t be custom watches if that was the only choice you have. Indeed, once you get into the customising process, the number of choices you have can be a bit overwhelming.
It’s not that the process is difficult of course; it’s about as clear and concise as possible. But between the different bezels, dials, hands and straps to choose from – just to start – actually coming to a decision is easier said than done.
After a retro racing chrono? Do what we did and opt for the Urban with a gold case and vintage-style tachymeter dial. Something bolder? Try a fully blacked-out diver. Or just go crazy and opt for a colourway that has no right existing. Don’t worry, we won’t judge. Instagram might, though.
Possibly the most versatile of the lot though is the mountain explorer-focused Basecamp. Using the classic blue as your own starting point, it’s easy to create a striking, military-style watch backed by a solid automatic movement, complete with your name on the dial if you so wish. We did not.
Now, don’t get us wrong, UNDONE do not make prestige watches. Compared to the pieces you’ll shell out thousands for, they don’t compare. Some use quartz movements, others simple lack the kind of fine finishing you get from Swiss watches.
But that’s not the point; these aren’t timepieces for horological purists, they’re accessible watches for anyone that wants to mirror their personality in their wristwear. And with prices from as little as £170, UNDONE is a brand you can afford to have some fun with.
To try your own hand at watch customisation, visit UNDONE.
