Story Highlight
– Smock Alley Theatre hosts Dublin’s first independent watch event.
– Chronography features global independent and microbrands.
– Karl Brown founded Chrome Calibre, focusing on unique designs.
– Event aims to educate about local watchmaking industry.
– High ticket demand reflects growing interest in independent watches.
Full Story
Smock Alley Theatre, a notable cultural landmark nestled in Dublin’s bustling Temple Bar district, will host Chronography this October. The event marks a dedicated celebration of independent watchmaking, presenting an unique opportunity for enthusiasts to engage with a diverse array of global microbrands.
Karl Brown, the founder of the Dublin-based watch design studio Chrome Calibre, discussed with WatchPro the significance of this event in the Irish horological landscape. He believes it addresses a historical absence of such gatherings in Ireland, while reflecting on the evolving tastes within the local collector community and what attendees can anticipate from the showcase.
Brown’s passion for watches can be traced back to childhood memories of his grandfather’s Pulsar LCD watch, which appeared otherworldly. The watch’s LED display, which only activated upon pressing a button, ignited a sense of wonder that lingered into adulthood. Influenced by his father’s Rolex and his mother’s collection of fine timepieces, Brown acquired his first watch—a titanium Pulsar solar model—which remains operational years later.
His establishment of Chrome Calibre stemmed from a mix of creativity and a desire to stand apart in the watch industry. Although he initially pursued industrial design, his career took a turn during the pandemic. Following the loss of his wife to breast cancer in 2019, he sought to re-evaluate his professional path and found inspiration in creating watch winders. Despite challenges in financing, he eventually shifted focus to innovative watch stands, introducing his Puzzle design—a modular system that allows collectors to creatively display their timepieces.
Brown’s journey in the watch community has yielded valuable insights. His involvement began serendipitously when he encountered a former design lecturer at a watch festival in Waterford. This led to joining a local club and immersing himself in various collectors’ perspectives, where distinct approaches to collecting were unveiled.
Attending global watch fairs stirred discussions within the community regarding Ireland’s absence in such events. Motivated by these conversations and the opportunity to provide local watchmakers with exposure, Brown took the initiative to create Chronography.
The exhibition aims to offer a platform for both established and emerging Irish watchmakers, alongside a series of presentations and discussions to educate attendees about the local watch scene. Notable contributors include John McGonigle, who seeks to revive watchmaking education in Ireland, and various artisans who highlight the country’s existing talent in horology.
Chronography consists of an exhibition showcasing an array of brands and a theatre space for informative talks. Brown noted that the venue, Smock Alley Theatre, adds a unique character, enriching the visitor experience.
As the event approaches, Brown has expressed optimism regarding its reception. The initial ticket sales have exceeded expectations, highlighting a significant interest from the community.
Success for Brown will be measured by the satisfaction of both exhibitors and attendees. He envisions potential growth for the event, with ideas for expanding it into a weekend-long celebration to accommodate additional brands and activities in the future.
For further details, visit https://chronography.ie/
