The first tip of the hat goes to a brand called Uniform Wares. Founded by designers Oliver Fowles and Patrick Bek in 2009, Uniform Wares is a UK-based company that “designs and produces timepieces based around a philosophy firmly rooted in contemporary British design and engineering.” The most noticeable element that unifies their offering is a clean, minimal, detail-oriented aesthetic. I’ve seen so many examples of minimal watches, but either they feel like they’ve been done before or they are so minimal that they lack soul. Uniform Wares doesn’t have that problem. They managed to make the pared down detailing feel distinct and recognizable, and their sophisticated color palette makes it difficult to decide which one you want to buy. The 302 and 100 series (pictured above) are great examples of refinement through restraint.
I acquired most of the timepieces shown here directly from Uniform Wares. They were quick to respond to my questions, always provided great service, and honestly I think I just like the British accent. I need to find a place I can go where they appreciate the American accent. You think it would be in LA because no one here speaks English, but no…
In short, Uniform Wares is destined to be a classic. A modern vintage. They create the type of timepieces that when you look back years from now you will regret not buying one when you had the chance.
The floating Uniform Wares photo was taken in the former office of Charles & Ray Eames in Venice, California (now Continuum LA). That’s me with my hacked, scrappy photo studio. Also, a nice shout on Instagram @ #uniformeverywares during a visit to our space at 901.