Temporal Works Series A

New watch brands often emerge from a desire to fill a perceived gap in the market, but Temporal Works arrives with a different objective entirely: to refine the very concept of a daily wearer through the lens of sartorial expertise. Founded by Mark Cho and Elliot Hammer, the pair previously known for orchestrating high-profile watch collaborations at The Armoury, this new venture represents a shift from curation to creation. The debut collection, titled the Series A, is not merely a branding exercise but a ground-up development project where every component has been reconsidered from first principles. The founders sought to strip away the accumulated noise of heritage-heavy marketing and focus strictly on the tangible elements of design, clarity, and wearability. By starting with a blank slate, Temporal Works has bypassed the constraints of historical precedent, allowing for a purity of vision that is often diluted in established houses.

The philosophy underpinning the Series A is deceptively simple, described by Mark Cho as an attempt to create the horological equivalent of a perfectly tailored navy blazer. In the world of menswear, the navy blazer is the ultimate foundational piece—versatile, reliable, and effortlessly correct in almost any setting. translating this ethos into steel and sapphire required a rigorous focus on proportion and finish. The goal was to build an object that feels as though it has always belonged on the wrist, avoiding the awkward "breaking in" period or the jarring aesthetic clashes that often accompany novel designs. This necessitated a design process where every curve, facet, and surface treatment had to justify its existence, resulting in a watch that prioritizes the user's experience over flashy, superfluous ornamentation.



To execute this vision, Cho and Hammer turned to Japan for manufacturing, a decision that speaks volumes about the brand's priorities. While Switzerland is often the default answer for luxury watch production, Japanese manufacturing is revered for its obsessive attention to detail, particularly regarding case geometry and surface finishing. The founders felt that only Japanese craftsmanship could achieve the specific subtleties they envisioned, especially the precise shapes and distortion-free surfaces that define the Series A. The result is a fusion of rigorous design logic and artisanal execution, creating a product that feels substantial and refined without relying on the crutch of a "Swiss Made" label to validate its quality.

The case of the Series A is a study in architectural restraint and ergonomic focus. Constructed from 316 stainless steel, it utilizes a monobloc design that draws heavy inspiration from the space-age silhouettes of the 1960s and 1970s. This era of design was characterized by a willingness to experiment with fluid, integrated forms, and the Series A captures that spirit without descending into retro-pastiche. The profile is sculpted to hug the wrist, featuring subtle curves that flow seamlessly into crisp, defined edges. The dimensions are deliberately restrained, measuring 37mm in diameter with a lug-to-lug length of 45mm and a thickness of just 10mm. These proportions ensure the watch slides easily under a shirt cuff, adhering to the dress code of the founders' sartorial background.

Visually, the case impresses with its interplay of light and shadow, achieved through meticulous Zaratsu polishing. This technique, famous for creating mirror-like surfaces free of distortion, is applied here to accentuate the dimensionality of the case form. When viewing the watch, one notices how the light travels uninterrupted across the polished flanks, contrasting sharply with the textual finishing applied to other areas. This variation in finish highlights the architectural form of the monobloc structure, making the watch appear as a single, coherent object rather than a collection of parts bolted together. The lugs are not merely attachments but extensions of the case body, tapering gently to grip the strap, further enhancing the "wrist-hugging" ergonomic profile that Hammer emphasized during development.



The dial design of the Series A is housed beneath a dual anti-reflective sapphire crystal, ensuring that the elaborate layout remains legible under varying lighting conditions. The primary dial configuration creates a classic sector layout, available in either a rich navy blue or a deep, stark black. The sector design is characterized by its oversized segmentation, which breaks the dial into distinct zones for hours and minutes, aiding in rapid time-telling. A toothed minute track runs along the periphery, adding a technical, almost instrument-like precision to the aesthetic. The surface features a quarter-brushed finish, a subtle detail that causes the dial to change appearance as the wearer moves; sections that appear matte in one angle may suddenly catch the light and gleam in another, breathing life into the display.

For those who find the sector layout too regimented, Temporal Works offers a dramatic alternative in the form of the Fortune Dial. This variation features a glossy red lacquer finish that immediately commands attention. Unlike the sector dials, the Fortune Dial strips away all ornamentation and markings, presenting a clean, uninterrupted face of vivid color. It is a bold stylistic choice that relies entirely on the quality of the lacquer and the depth of the red hue to carry the design. The absence of indices or tracks shifts the focus entirely to the passage of the hands against the crimson void, creating a striking visual impact that feels both modern and daring. It is a watch for those who view time as a concept rather than a precise measurement, offering a vivid counterpoint to the disciplined structure of the navy and black sector models.

A defining feature across all Series A variants is the proprietary handset, dubbed the "Nib" hands. Drawing inspiration from the silhouette of fountain pen nibs, these hands are a microcosm of the brand's dedication to detail. They are crafted with three distinct facets: two sloping sides that are highly polished to catch the light, and a flat top surface that is finished in matte. This combination of finishes ensures that the hands remain visible against both the brushed sector dials and the glossy lacquer of the Fortune dial. A small cut-out at the center of the hand adds a distinctive visual signature, a hollow point that adds lightness to the design and recalls the breather hole found on high-end writing instruments.



Turning the watch over reveals a closed steel caseback, a nod to the practical, robust nature of the timepiece. The center of the caseback features a textured circular medallion adorned with the Temporal Works logo and the motto "Slowly But Surely," flanked by the "TW" initials. The engraving is crisp and deep, surrounded by technical markings indicating the water resistance of 50 meters and the Japanese origin of the manufacturing. The decision to use a closed back allows for a slimmer profile and adds a tactile element to the watch, as the relief engraving sits comfortably against the skin. It reinforces the idea that this is a tool for living, designed to be worn and handled rather than merely inspected through a glass display window.

Powering the Series A is the Sellita SW210-1, a Swiss mechanical movement chosen specifically for its reputation as a workhorse. While the case and assembly are Japanese, the engine is Swiss, providing a blend of reliability and serviceability. The movement beats at 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz) and offers a power reserve of approximately 42 hours. With 18 jewels and an accuracy rating of +/- 20 seconds per day, it is a robust caliber designed for daily use. The choice of the SW210-1 suggests a preference for slimness and tactile interaction, aligning with the vintage-inspired dimensions of the case. It is a movement that can be serviced by any competent watchmaker globally, ensuring that the Series A can remain a functional companion for decades to come.

The strap pairing for the Series A is far from an afterthought, featuring bespoke leather options handcrafted by Jean Rousseau. The navy sector dial is paired with a smooth blue calfskin strap that echoes the cool tones of the dial, creating a monochromatic, seamless look. The black sector and red Fortune dials are mounted on black pebble-grain calfskin, adding a layer of texture that contrasts beautifully with the polished case. These straps are supple and require no break-in period, immediately conforming to the wrist. They are secured by a custom stainless steel pin buckle, developed specifically for this collection to ensure aesthetic harmony with the case geometry.



In addition to the leather options, Temporal Works has collaborated with the renowned German manufacturer Staib to create a custom steel-mesh bracelet. Designed exclusively for the Series A, the bracelet measures 19mm at the lugs and features a slight taper, enhancing the vintage appeal of the watch. The mesh construction is fine and fluid, draping over the wrist like fabric rather than rigid metal. Visually, the steel mesh transforms the watch, pushing it further into the 1970s aesthetic while offering a practical, water-resistant alternative to leather for warmer months. The integration of the mesh bracelet demonstrates the brand's commitment to offering a complete, versatile package right from the start.

The launch of Temporal Works was a carefully orchestrated event, targeting a global audience of enthusiasts who appreciate understated quality. The Series A officially launched on Thursday, December 4th. In a retail landscape often dominated by waitlists and exclusivity games, the watch was available for purchase directly from The Armoury, accessible both through their online platform and at their physical boutiques in Hong Kong and New York City. This distribution strategy leverages the existing trust and infrastructure of The Armoury while establishing Temporal Works as a distinct entity with its own identity and product roadmap.

Pricing for the Series A has been set at $2,500 USD, a figure that places it in a competitive segment of the market. This price point reflects the cost of custom Japanese manufacturing, the bespoke Jean Rousseau straps, and the Swiss movement, offering a value proposition based on tangible quality rather than brand inflation. As an introductory gesture for the launch month of December, the custom Staib steel mesh bracelet—normally a separate accessory priced at $250 USD—will be included with every watch at no additional cost. This early-adopter incentive significantly enhances the value, providing owners with two distinct looks for the price of one and underscoring the brand's desire to deliver a "complete" wardrobe staple immediately upon release.



The Series A stands as a testament to the power of considered design. By ignoring the pressure to include derivative dive bezels or faux-patina lume, Mark Cho and Elliot Hammer have created a watch that feels confident in its own skin. The "Navy Blazer" analogy proves apt; the watch is neither shouting for attention nor hiding in the background. It is simply, and effectively, correct. From the sharp transitions of the Zaratsu polishing to the thoughtful facets of the Nib hands, every millimeter of the 37mm case has been maximized for visual and tactile pleasure. It is a debut that promises a serious future for Temporal Works, establishing a foundation of "clarity, wearability, and timeless style" that is likely to resonate with those who have grown tired of the hype cycle.

With the Series A, Temporal Works has avoided the common pitfalls of a freshman release. There are no confused identities or cut corners here, only a clear, singular vision executed with precision. As the brand moves forward, this initial release will likely be viewed as a statement of intent—a declaration that great watchmaking does not strictly require a Swiss zip code, but rather a dedicated eye for detail and a commitment to the user experience. For the collector seeking a break from the predictable, or the one-watch individual looking for a companion that defies easy categorization, the Series A offers a compelling, meticulously crafted answer.

Case: 316 stainless steel monobloc construction measuring 37mm in diameter, 45mm lug-to-lug, and 10mm in thickness. Features meticulous Zaratsu polishing for distortion-free mirror surfaces, a dual anti-reflective sapphire crystal, and a closed steel caseback with the Temporal Works logo. Water resistance is rated at 50 meters.

Movement: Swiss Sellita SW210-1 automatic caliber featuring 18 jewels and operating at 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz). Offers a power reserve of approximately 42 hours and an accuracy rating of +/- 20 seconds per day.

Dial: Available in a two-tone oversized sector layout (black or blue) with a toothed minute track and quarter-brushed finish, or a vivid glossy red lacquer "Fortune" dial with no markings. Features custom "Nib" hands with three facets—two polished sloping sides and a matte flat top—and a center cut-out.

Strap: 19mm lug width featuring bespoke Jean Rousseau genuine calfskin leather (black pebble-grain or blue smooth) with a custom stainless steel pin buckle. A custom tapered steel-mesh bracelet manufactured by Staib is also available.

Price: $2,500 USD

Notes: The debut collection from Mark Cho and Elliot Hammer (The Armoury), manufactured in Japan to specific sartorial standards. For the launch month of December, the custom Staib steel mesh bracelet (normally $250 USD) is included with the purchase at no additional cost.