Story Highlight
– Ed Margulies launched Split Watches in late 2025.
– Focuses on authenticity and mental health initiatives.
– Each watch sold supports therapy at Anna Freud Centre.
– “In The Skies” is the world’s first full-glow watch.
– Limited to 250 pieces, priced at £1,800.
Full Story
A fresh entrant in the independent watch sector is making waves, as Ed Margulies launches Split Watches, a brand unhindered by the usual biases and expectations. This venture materialised at the end of 2025, driven by Margulies’ unique vision for watchmaking.
Margulies, whose father is renowned British watch distributor Marcus Margulies, was introduced to high-end watch craftsmanship early in life. He honed his skills at esteemed Swiss brands such as Longines, Vacheron Constantin, and Blancpain. However, disillusionment crept in over time, leaving him contending with mental health challenges propelled by a prevalent culture focused on ego and reputation.
After a period away from the industry, Margulies has returned with a goal to instill a sense of uplifting energy into watchmaking through Split Watches, a brand founded on principles of authenticity and sincerity. Margulies aims to foster connections that go beyond superficial interactions.
Integral to the brand’s philosophy is a strong commitment to mental health advocacy. For every watch sold, an hour of therapy is donated to the Anna Freud Centre, reflecting the brand’s serious dedication to this cause. Margulies’ genuine warmth and subtle humour permeate the brand, with the latest timepiece echoing a message of hope: “wherever there is darkness, you can always find the light.”
Named “In The Skies,” Split’s newest chronograph stands out as the world’s inaugural full-glow watch. Developed over a year and a half, this 42mm automatic model achieves a luminous case and strap, blending Japanese luminous powder within its proprietary Ceramod+ material. It brings an exciting alternative to models such as Christopher Ward’s recent C1 Bel Canto Lumière.
However, the design embodies more than just a playful aesthetic. Each element serves a purpose: it incorporates a bi-compax automatic movement from Seiko, visible through a sapphire exhibition back. At a thickness of 15mm—typical for chronographs at this price—ergonomics remain uncompromised, thanks to a flexible FKM rubber strap.
Limited to just 250 pieces, this model is priced at £1,800 and offers water resistance up to 100 metres, with an anti-glare sapphire crystal. Notably, the design features the hands oriented around the 7:20 mark, a departure from the common 2:10 configuration, adopting a more subdued expression. As Margulies states, “It is ok not to be ok,” yet the charm of this timepiece is undeniably uplifting.
For more details, visit splitwatches.com.
