Story Highlight
– Time+Tide launched FounderFest for microbrand watchmakers’ gatherings.
– Seven brands presented music-inspired unique watch designs.
– Events scheduled in New York, London, and Melbourne.
– Tickets priced at US$20, £10, and AU$10.
– Exclusive watches available online after the event on September 22.
Full Story
Time+Tide is set to host a new event called FounderFest, showcasing seven independent and microbrand watchmakers across its studios in London, New York, and Melbourne.
At this event, designers will present unique timepieces inspired by a compelling theme: “What would a watch look like if it was inspired by your favourite music?” The event aims to intertwine the improvisational spirit of jazz with the clean aesthetics of Bauhaus design.
The participating brands—Awake, Baltic, Beaucroft, Dennison, Echo/Neutra, Furlan Marri, and Serica—have each crafted a watch reflecting this musical inspiration for the occasion.
FounderFest will take place over the weekend of September 19-20, encompassing activities centred on music, the brand founders, and the community. In New York, the weekend schedule includes Awake, Furlan Marri, Beaucroft, and Baltic on the first day, with Echo/Neutra, Serica, and Dennison presenting on the following day. In London, the activities are confined to Saturday, which features sessions with Awake and Baltic, culminating in an evening featuring live music. Melbourne will also host events on Saturday, including two launch sessions followed by musical performances. Ticket prices are set at US$20 in New York, £10 in London, and AU$10 in Melbourne.
Each watch introduced at FounderFest will later be available for purchase online for 24 hours starting September 22.
### Highlights of the Exclusive Time+Tide Studio Editions:
**Awake Sơn Mài – Frosted Leaf “Ultraviolet”**
This striking timepiece exemplifies the bond between music, memory, and artistry. Utilising the traditional Vietnamese Sơn Mài lacquer technique, the watch features a unique dial crafted over silver leaf, with layers of translucent lacquer contributing to its distinctive appearance. The watch is housed in a chic 38mm case and runs on the Swiss-made La Joux-Perret G101 automatic movement, showcasing how harmonious colour and texture can forge emotional connections without direct narrative.
**Baltic Heures du Monde “Horizon Line”**
A fresh iteration of a beloved design, this watch features Baltic’s inaugural forged carbon dial, ensuring that every piece is one-of-a-kind. Bright orange details enliven the dial’s monochrome look, while the worldtimer complication, automatic Soprod C125 movement, and sleek 37mm stainless steel casing make it a practical companion for frequent travellers.
**Beaucroft “The Punk”**
Designed to capture the essence of punk, “The Punk” showcases a transparent pink sapphire dial revealing its inner workings. The combination of a striking sapphire caseback with a black PVD-coated casing and strap results in a captivating contrast. This 38mm watch demonstrates that bold design can be functional and stylish.
**Dennison ALD Dual Time “Carnaby Blue”**
Embracing the creative spirit of the British 1960s, this watch features a blue mother-of-pearl dial reminiscent of the Union Jack, using two Swiss Ronda quartz movements to keep time in two zones. Its elegant cushion case and denim strap meld aesthetics with practicality, making it a modern classic.
**echo/neutra Rivanera Piccolo “Rosa d’Epoca”**
With a compact 26mm design, this grade 5 titanium watch utilises a Sellita SW1000 movement. Its understated grey and antique rose colour scheme speaks volumes, offering a sophisticated allure that reveals itself gradually, embodying the idea that great presence isn’t solely about size.
**Furlan Marri “Songlines” Editions**
The “Songlines” Editions expand upon previous designs, melding a richly lacquered brown dial with a versatile stainless steel bracelet. Housing a La Joux-Perret G100 movement, it serves as a polished yet practical watch that embodies both elegance and robustness.
**Serica Ref. 7505 “Sunburst”**
This field watch features a dynamic two-tone enamel dial that shifts from deep brown to near black, alongside Serica’s signature nipple-dial layout and chronometer-certified Soprod M100 movement. Its practical design and water resistance make it suitable for everyday wear, enhanced by thoughtful finishing touches that elevate its aesthetic appeal.
