Watches with the steampunk touch
Designers across the world are steampunking everything in their sight. So, if consumer electronics can be steampunked, how could watches, the original steampunk items, be left behind? We have compiled a list of steampunk watches that embody the design philosophy of a bygone era, yet managing to remain relevant, just as time has always remained relevant across eras.
First up, we have the steampunk designs that stay original to the steampunk philosophy, replete with the leather and brass look. Japanese artisan Haruo Suikichi has come up with a steampunk design shaped like an antique bicycle bell. Although huge for the wrist, hardcore steampunkers will surely give it a big thumbs-up.
Even as the world is going unwired, we have a steampunk watch which uses plenty of wiring to get that authentic steampunk look. So, this wiry creation uses a wire hanger serving as armor. To add some more functionality, a tiny compass also manages to find its way into this very unique steampunk watch.
We have to hand it over to this one, our personal favorite. This steampunk watch has enough plumbing to do a steam engine proud. OK, we are exaggerating here. Nevertheless, we love this design simply because it is wearable, in other words small enough to sit on the wrist while still being pretty steampunkish.
To cater to the larger populace who want to wear some affordable steampunk, Casio has come up with the G8100-A5. This steampunk watch is the latest addition to the oh-so-popular G-shock series of tough digital watches. What's more, you can strap one onto your wrist for a little less than $100. A classic case of steampunk for the digital age.
This steampunk watch wouldn't look out of place in a Harry Potter movie. Harry Potter fans can't miss the snitch-like shape of the watch's dial. Definitely a happening piece of wristwear, but make sure you don't wear one to the boardroom meetings. What's more, the watch is pretty affordable at $230.
Steampunking has gone mainstream, and here's the proof of the pudding. Tag Heuer, the Swiss watch manufacturer has come out with the Monaco V4. Though the watch doesn't exactly have the bronzed look, you can stare endlessly at it all day. The Monaco V4 is a skeleton design which gives its wearer a view of the intricate working of this mechanical masterpiece. Masterpieces definitely don't come cheap, and one of these will set you back about 80 grand.
Swiss watch designer Vianney Halter has crafted a watch that is modern mechanically, but very period in its styling. Presenting the Antiqua Perpetual. This is one watch that you can show off during power meetings, such is the finish and aura this steampunk watch exudes. And like most things Swiss, be prepared for an outrageous price tag. Price on request.
Continuing in the vein of expensive watches, MB&F joins the bandwagon with the HM2, a watch which in mild words, looks otherworldly. It's perfect for those who revel in the more stares per minute game. This steampunk watch will set you back $59,000. Heck, you could buy a Porsche for that.
Talking about Porsches, how about a watch that could buy you 10 of those. That is the DeWitt Incognito for you. Yes, steampunking has reached humongous proportions. How else do you explain this steampunk design that costs $630,000? We agree it is a one-off concept, but $630,000 for a steampunk watch! Speechless!
Money can buy everything, well almost. A designer who calls himself Kyphoscoliosis (don't ask us what it means) made one for his brother. Though it it looks terrific, you can't go buy one for yourself. The designer says that the watch is a one-off item and also adds that he isn't ready to invest the enormous time and effort to make one more. That said, you may put your persuasion skills to good use here. Well, that brings us to the end of the top steampunk watch designs, currently the rage around the world. Stay glued to this space.
