One of the most interesting parts of watch design is often the part the wearer never sees
The part you will probably never see
One of the peculiar things about watch design is that some of the most interesting solutions are hidden behind the dial.
The images show the spacer ring designed for the Miyota 9-series movement. This component holds the movement inside the case while serving another purpose as well: it also carries the lume markers placed behind the dial.
In the finished watch this part will be completely invisible — yet it plays a crucial role in the construction.
Why it was designed this way
When designing the structure around the movement, I could have used two separate parts. One for holding the movement and another for carrying the lume markers.
Instead, I decided to create an integrated solution.
This approach:
- reduces the number of components
- ensures more accurate lume positioning
- improves movement stability
- simplifies the assembly process
These small engineering decisions are what ultimately shape the feel of a well-designed watch.
Moments from development
The photos show the application of the lume markers on the spacer ring.
This stage represents one of the final steps in the development process. The spacer has now reached its final version, and everything works exactly as intended.
These are the moments when a concept finally becomes a real component.