Creating a watch illustration is always a personal experience for me. Each timepiece is not just a functional object but a perfect blend of art and engineering. I begin by spending time with the watch—studying its design, proportions, and the story it tells. I focus on its unique character, so my work goes beyond simply replicating its form.
When I was asked to create a tribute portrait of the A. Lange & Söhne Zeitwerk, I was thrilled. The Zeitwerk has been one of my grail watches for a while now. Its innovative dial, combined with the exquisite craftsmanship A. Lange & Söhne is known for, makes it a masterpiece in my eyes, and for many other watch-lovers. So, having the opportunity to honour it through my work was special.
I began with a small study of the Zeitwerk: an ink sketch to explore its shape and contrast. This helped me prepare for the final portrait. For the finished piece, I used only graphite pencil, a medium that gives me an intimate connection to the watch.
One of the trickiest aspects of illustrating the Zeitwerk was capturing the subtle contrasts between its polished and matte surfaces. The watch has a lot of intricate detailing, from the reflective edges of the case to the smooth recessed dial, and translating those into gradients of graphite required patience and precision. Balancing the depth and texture without overworking the shading was particularly challenging, as I wanted to maintain the watch’s boldness while preserving its refined elegance. Achieving the right balance between light and shadow to bring out the Zeitwerk’s unique character was a rewarding challenge.
Paying careful attention to the contrast between its polished and matte surfaces, I used subtle gradients to give depth to the piece . The architectural structure of the Zeitwerk translated beautifully into the rich tonal range of graphite, allowing me to capture its bold, refined aesthetic.
The Zeitwerk’s modern yet timeless design embodies everything I love about horology. As both a collector and an artist, bringing this watch to life on paper was a joy. Each stroke was a celebration of one of the most iconic watches in my journey as a horological artist.