Bespoke Retrograde Watch by Dewey Vicknair
Dewey Vicknair’s bespoke retrograde wristwatch showcases masterful hand‑craftsmanship, beginning with raw brass and steel sheets that are meticulously cut, milled, and assembled into a complex movement. The 39 mm Calatrava‑style case houses an open‑worked dial and a unique retrograde hour complication driven by a finger‑indexed star wheel and a wolf‑toothed gear, delivering a 240° sweep that resets each six‑hour cycle. Every component, from the three‑quarter plate to the steel balance bridge, receives hand‑finished detailing such as pink‑gold plating, perlage, and black polishing, while the movement incorporates a loosely based Omega cal. 266 train, manual winding, and a 35‑hour power reserve. The watch combines functional elegance with artistic flair, featuring green‑hued hands, an emerald cabochon‑tipped crown, and a sun‑ray patterned barrel cover. Designed as a made‑to‑order limited edition, it offers 30 m water resistance and is finished with calf‑skin leather straps. Vicknair’s approach merges traditional techniques with modern precision, resulting in a distinctive timepiece that reflects both historic horological inspiration and contemporary independent watchmaking.
Buying Time Analysis: This story highlights the extraordinary craftsmanship and artistic dedication of independent watchmaker Dewey Vicknair, illustrating how bespoke, hand‑made horology can push technical boundaries and preserve traditional watchmaking artistry in a modern context.
