In a world awash with timekeeping choices, it takes a really distinctive imaginative and prescient to carve out a particular area. Enter Sō Labs, a Chicago-based model cast within the fires of horological enthusiasm by two kindred spirits again in 2019. Their mission, fantastically encapsulated by their identify – Sō, Japanese for “starting,” “creativity,” and “layer” – is to craft timepieces which might be as visually participating as they’re thoughtfully designed. And their newest creation, the Layer Two, stands as a testomony to this very ethos.
The identify itself hints on the defining function of this charming watch: its dial. Sō Labs have embraced the idea of depth and dimension, making a layered panorama that attracts the attention and intrigues the thoughts. A central disc subtly marks the seconds, whereas a slender, skeletonized hand gracefully signifies the minutes. However it’s the daring, triangular hand charting the hours that really anchors the design, making a harmonious interaction of shapes and ranges. This distinctive association isn’t simply visually arresting; it’s a masterclass in purposeful artwork, immediately recognizable and undeniably Sō Labs.
Past the progressive dial building, the Layer Two ($1295) affords a outstanding diploma of personalization by its numerous end choices. From the sturdy, modern really feel of DLC-coated stainless-steel to the traditional gleam of polished surfaces and the understated class of brushed metallic, every variant subtly alters the character of the watch, permitting you to pick out a bit that really resonates together with your private model. This dedication to element extends to the accompanying stainless-steel bracelet, meticulously completed to match the case, and the inclusion of a complementary strap crafted by Veblenist, including one other layer of bespoke luxurious to the bundle.
Beneath the floor, the Layer Two is powered by the reliably sturdy Swiss-made Sellita SW220-1 computerized motion. This workhorse ensures precision and dependability, boasting 26 jewels, hand-winding capabilities, and a frequency of 28,800 beats per hour for easy sweeping seconds. However Sō Labs hasn’t merely slotted in a regular motion. In a stroke of artistic genius, they’ve repurposed the day and date perform to unlock an astounding 217 distinctive dial combos. This intelligent manipulation ensures that every look at your Layer Two is a subtly totally different and all the time participating expertise, reworking time-telling into a visible delight.
Encased in a 40mm stainless-steel housing and water resistant to 100 meters, the Sō Labs Layer Two is greater than only a fairly face. It’s a sturdy and versatile companion for on a regular basis adventures. Paired with a domed sapphire lens and meticulously crafted in each element, from its dimensions to its 20mm lug width, the Layer Two embodies the spirit of recent watchmaking – playful, artistic, and totally design-focused. For individuals who admire horology infused with real ardour and a dedication to pushing artistic boundaries, the Sō Labs Layer Two affords a compelling and charming proposition.
Leo is the proprietor of The Coolector and writes in regards to the stuff he loves. And a few stuff that he merely likes.
