I’d like you to make me a custom watch. How do we start?
Click on the “Process” link at the top of the page to read up how it all works, then click on the “Contact” link and send me a message to discuss your watch.
Can you make me a watch that looks like ______________?
Most likely. There are usually cases and dials and such available that are similar to those found on the most popular watches. Additionally, a lot of microbrands contract with established manufacturers to source parts that are generally available outside those contracts as well. There are occasionally little details that can’t be replicated exactly, but it’s rare that we can’t get close.
I want a rainbow dial with a dragon and a cut crystal unicorn with antireflective lume in a teal shade of red?
They say anything can be done with enough time and money. There are limits to what I can do practically and within most budgets. I’m working hard every day to expand my network and capabilities, but Rocinante Watches is not yet to the point of being able to fabricate major components from scratch. I generally try to work within what industry manufacturers have to offer. It’s very expensive to make watch parts, and tooling up to make a dial, for instance, requires that the manufacturer is able to make a profit. That means ultra specialized things need to have enough market demand to justify the development costs. Very special things can absolutely be done, but be prepared for the price tag that goes with it. There is still a HUGE variety of parts out there to where you can definitely end up with a one of a kind watch!
I want a mechanical alarm, with flyer GMT, and monopusher moonphase?
The deal with complications is the more specialized you get, the lower the demand in the overall market. Lower demand directly translates to lower supply. I might be able to get a movement with all of that (not really, because I made up a ridiculous example), but the challenge will be in cases, dials, and hands. Watchmaking is a very old industry that predates a lot of standardization, and movements all have unique dimensions (diameter, height, crown depth, hand pivot size, dial feet locations, etc.). If demand is very low for a particular complication, it’s very unlikely that I’ll be able to source all the parts to make a complete watch without going down the more expensive, completely custom rabbit hole. Things can be made, but the costs adds up quickly.
That said, I have an account with Sellita, probably the most important movement manufacturer on the planet today. I can get any movement they make in any configuration, grade, color, or level of decoration. If we’re clever about it, we can do some really cool stuff even with the above limitations! I also have access to movements from a variety of other manufacturers, and will happily explore those options with you.
What is the typical delivery time for a custom watch?
Once we’ve nailed down all the details, expect it to take anywhere from 6 weeks to 6 months. There is currently a bit of a wait list on top of that. The watchmaking industry is primarily located in Europe and Asia, and there isn’t a very robust supply and distribution channel for this corner of the industry in the US. As a result, there’s almost always at least one part coming in from overseas, and that takes a decent amount of time. At the time I’m writing this, the new SW200-2s are just hitting the market, and all of Sellita’s production is accounted for. That means getting the latest greatest movement takes a good 3 months to get slotted into production. Once I have everything in hand (you’ll be kept apprised of progress), it typically takes me a week or two to get everything assembled, regulated, and sent your way.
How do you ship?
Shipping is currently via UPS. If you live in a place, like I do up here in the Rocky Mountains, where a particular shipper is especially good or bad, let me know, and I will do my best accommodate.
Take my money?
I take all major credit cards, but prefer ACH bank transfer. Cost is the same for you, and I save substantially on fees. I won’t charge you extra for using a credit card though. When it’s time to send me money, I’ll send you an invoice vial email that you can conveniently pay in your browser.