In the world of watchmaking, where classic styles and established genres often reign supreme, it's truly refreshing to witness a young brand like Timeless step boldly onto the scene with their remarkable creation, the HMS 003. Breaking away from the conventional norms, Timeless has crafted a timepiece that defies categorization and invites us into a world of intriguing design and playful innovation.
The concept of the HMS was first unveiled in late 2020, and it has since evolved into the remarkable HMS ref. 003. This watch immediately captures your attention with its unconventional aesthetics, challenging the standard conventions we've come to expect from timepieces. While it may seem like a harmonious blend of various design elements, the HMS 003 dares to venture into uncharted territory, creating a design language that is as perplexing as it is captivating.
At first glance, the HMS 003 is a visual spectacle, with a profusion of intricate details adorning its lugs, case, and dial. The heart of the watch is its dial, an openwork masterpiece that exposes a bespoke center wheel synchronized with the hour hand. This intricate display is surrounded by a captivating guilloché section that dominates the dial's landscape. The design choices here evoke a hint of steampunk aesthetics, giving the watch a distinctive and intriguing personality.
The dial maintains a symmetrical layout with the Timeless logo at 12 o'clock and an unconventional date window at the bottom. This date window is unlike any other, featuring what appears to be a second domed sapphire with a polished frame. Within this small window lies the date, accompanied by the HMS label, creating a truly unique date display that adds to the watch's overall complexity.
The overarching theme of the HMS 003 is "whirlwind," a motif that permeates not only the dial but also extends to the case and crown. The steel case, measuring 41.5mm in diameter and 46.1mm from lug to lug, creates a visual presence that matches the watch's intricate design. Despite its complexity, the watch wears comfortably on the wrist, thanks to its 12.8mm thickness. The case is adorned with a small concave bezel featuring 12 drilled shallow holes, resembling portholes and adding to the watch's visual density.
The wire lug design, which tapers to the case wall, includes contrasting gold footing, creating a striking visual contrast from every angle. While some design elements may seem ornamental, they contribute to the watch's overall aesthetic and playfulness.
Designed in Vevey, Switzerland, the Timeless watch represents a fusion of the past seen from the future and the future seen from the past. Drawing inspiration from Switzerland's industrial heritage, Timeless has crafted a timepiece that pays homage to the nation's pioneering spirit. From locomotives to heavy machinery and iconic cylindrical-shaped turbines, this watch captures the essence of Swiss industrial excellence and translates it into a captivating and thought-provoking design.
In summary, the Timeless HMS 003 is a watch that defies convention and invites exploration. Its intricate details, unconventional design, and playful approach to watchmaking make it a distinctive addition to the world of horology. Whether you find it polarizing or captivating, there's no denying that Timeless has dared to venture into uncharted territory, offering a fresh perspective in a sea of traditional timepieces.
