Bones And Bridges
Robb Report Singapore|August 2024
We explore the timeless allure of skeleton and open-worked watches and track how they’ve evolved through the centuries.
Haziq Yusof
Bones And Bridges

THEY SAY A magician should never reveal his secrets. Unlike the masters of sleight of hand, however, the David Copperfields of the watchmaking world appear to live by a different maxim, one that posits: if you're good as you say you are, why not flaunt it?

In the world of watches, no category of timepieces reveals more than skeletonised watches. They flaunt their complexities with unabashed transparency, mesmerising you with full views of their inner workings while fostering a deep appreciation for the art of fine watchmaking. The idea, essentially, is to allow wearers to look through-and not simply at-the watch.

If you're unfamiliar with skeleton watches, you'd be forgiven for assuming that it would be easier to conjure than a conventional one. After all, wouldn't skeletonisation mean that watchmakers can skip designing a dial?

While that may be true, skeletonising a timepiece is no easy feat. Think of it as a high-stakes, solo game of Jenga. Instead of gingerly removing small wooden blocks, watchmakers must meticulously and delicately remove excess metal from the movement's plates and bridges-leaving only the essential components behind-while ensuring the movement remains robust. Of course, should the structure collapse-you're more likely to hear a watchmaker lament the amount of wasted work and time, rather than an excited cry of 'Jenga'.

Show Your Workings

Traditionally, skeleton watches have been the canvas master watchmakers use to display their dexterity. The art of skeletonisation became significant during the quartz crisis of the 1980s, when the Swiss watch industry faced an existential threat from electronically powered quartz watches. In response, Swiss watchmakers emphasised the craftsmanship and complexity of mechanical movements to differentiate themselves from mass-produced quartz models.

This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.

This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.

MORE STORIES FROM ROBB REPORT SINGAPOREView all
Beachfront Paradise
Robb Report Singapore

Beachfront Paradise

Known for its intricate architecture and contemporary structures, Iniala Beach House in Phuket stands as a grand retreat just a few steps away from the shores of Natai Beach.

time-read
2 mins  |
October 2024
Emerald Magnificence
Robb Report Singapore

Emerald Magnificence

Embrace the splendours of Hokkaido's natural beauty from a different yet equally majestic perspective at Higashiyama Niseko Village, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve.

time-read
4 mins  |
October 2024
The Real Deal
Robb Report Singapore

The Real Deal

In Guadalajara, one discovers the rise of luxury tequila Volcan de mi Tierra and the passion in bringing forth the highest expression of the spirit.

time-read
8 mins  |
October 2024
This Month's Feed
Robb Report Singapore

This Month's Feed

Only the best dining and drinking spots in Singapore.

time-read
2 mins  |
October 2024
World Builders
Robb Report Singapore

World Builders

At Bellerby & Co., hundreds of hours are spent crafting globes that don't just depict the planet-they chart, in mesmerising detail, your individual journey or your family's history upon it.

time-read
3 mins  |
October 2024
The Home Of Equine Elegance
Robb Report Singapore

The Home Of Equine Elegance

AWARD-WINNING INTERIOR design studio EightyTwo transforms the essence of comfort, luxury and aesthetic elegance with bespoke home solutions that are crafted to reflect one’s personal tastes and enhance your well-being.

time-read
2 mins  |
October 2024
Film-schooled
Robb Report Singapore

Film-schooled

Which Autumn 2024 collection best embodies your sartorial look?

time-read
2 mins  |
October 2024
Lead With Passion
Robb Report Singapore

Lead With Passion

At a glamorous event in Singapore, Tumi launched the Asra collection for Spring/Summer 2024 with the help of South Korean superstar Mun Ka Young.

time-read
2 mins  |
October 2024
Bag The Look
Robb Report Singapore

Bag The Look

From utilitarian daily beaters to versatile style statements, here are the latest work bags to elevate your office cachet.

time-read
2 mins  |
October 2024
The Vanity Table
Robb Report Singapore

The Vanity Table

The latest grooming products to know.

time-read
2 mins  |
October 2024