Apiar's Innovative Approach to 3D-Printed Watches

Apiar, a British watch brand founded in 2023 by Matt Oosthuizen and Sam White, has made significant strides in the watchmaking industry by introducing its second model, the Gen 1.0. This timepiece is notable for being the first in the industry to feature both its 39-millimeter case and dial manufactured from titanium using additive manufacturing, commonly referred to as 3D printing. Oosthuizen, the managing director, emphasizes the potential for further innovation in mechanical watch design, stating, “To really start redefining what a mechanical watch is, we’d have to start printing movement parts.”

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The inception of Apiar was influenced by the founders' backgrounds and shared interests. Oosthuizen, a product designer and sustainability innovations specialist at Autodesk, and White, a mechanical engineering adviser at Atkinsréalis, were childhood friends with a mutual passion for watches. Their decision to create Apiar stemmed from a desire to merge their expertise in design and engineering with their love for horology. Oosthuizen noted that rather than accumulating watches from other brands, he aimed to develop a unique timepiece that reflected his enthusiasm for additive manufacturing.

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The Gen 1.0 watch represents a culmination of extensive simulation and support optimization processes, resulting in a product that balances various geometries and textures. Oosthuizen expressed satisfaction with the outcome, highlighting how the watch exemplifies the effective application of additive manufacturing in the luxury watch sector.

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Despite the innovative approach of Apiar, there are skeptics within the traditional watchmaking community. Critics argue that 3D printing may compromise the craftsmanship and heritage associated with mechanical watches. The debate centers around whether the use of modern manufacturing techniques can truly capture the artistry and precision that define luxury timepieces.

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Oosthuizen has articulated a vision for the future of watchmaking, suggesting that the industry is on the brink of a transformation that could include the printing of movement parts. This perspective reflects a broader trend in manufacturing, where technology increasingly intersects with traditional craftsmanship.

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As Apiar continues to deliver its Gen 1.0 model, the brand is poised to explore further innovations in watch design and manufacturing. The founders remain committed to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the realm of 3D-printed watches, potentially setting new standards in the industry.

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• “To really start redefining what a mechanical watch is, we’d have to start printing movement parts, which I don’t think is like a million miles away, “ said Matt Oosthuizen, the managing director of the British watch brand Apiar.” — Matt Oosthuizen, Managing Director of Apiar

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• “We had to do a lot of simulation and support optimization,” — Matt Oosthuizen, Managing Director of Apiar

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In summary, Apiar's innovative use of 3D printing technology marks a significant development in the watch industry, blending modern manufacturing techniques with traditional watchmaking principles. The ongoing dialogue about the implications of such advancements continues to shape the future of horology.

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