Story Highlight
– Lawrence Butler wears mechanical watch during MLB game.
– First player to don a watch in baseball history.
– Wild ONE Skeleton Gecko weighs only 78 grams.
– Shock-resistant, withstands impacts up to 5,000g.
– Game-worn watch to be auctioned for charity.
Full Story
Lawrence Butler has etched his name in sports history as the first Major League Baseball player to don a mechanical watch during an official game.
The Oakland Athletics outfielder, known for his passion for horology, showcased the Norqain Wild ONE Skeleton Gecko during a game on Friday night, marking a significant milestone by introducing a Swiss mechanical sports watch to the baseball field for the very first time.
The Wild ONE Skeleton, weighing in at a mere 78 grams, is built to endure substantial impacts. Its case is formulated using Norqain’s innovative NORTEQ carbon fibre, making it six times lighter than steel and 3.5 times lighter than titanium. A rubber shock absorber further safeguards the movement, with the watch demonstrating resilience against shocks of up to 5,000g—ideal for the high-impact nature of MLB games.
Originally unveiled at the Watches and Wonders Geneva event in 2024, the watch has also made appearances in other sports venues, notably being worn by brand ambassador and tennis star Stan Wawrinka at Wimbledon.
The game-worn timepiece, valued at $6,790, is set to be auctioned off by Major League Baseball, with all proceeds directed toward charitable causes.
This event signifies a burgeoning partnership between Norqain and high-profile athletes. The independent watchmaker has successfully aligned itself with athletes such as Wawrinka, Sidney Crosby, and Gianluigi Buffon, enhancing its visibility within the sports community.
