Patience truly is a virtue, especially when it comes to bespoke timepieces. You see, if you're after instant gratification, the big brands are happy to oblige with their readily available collections. But for something truly special, something crafted with meticulous detail and a unique flair, you'll likely find yourself on a waiting list. And if you have a specific color in mind, well, prepare for a longer wait! This brings us to the Oliver Gallaugher Deep Space, a watch that first captivated us in August 2023. Now, after completing its own orbit, the Deep Space returns, this time showcasing a stunning new blue dial finish.
Let's dive into the details, shall we?
The Case:
At first glance, the Deep Space case exudes classic elegance, with its clean, circular profile and gently curved lugs. But it's the finishing that sets it apart. Instead of the usual brushed surfaces, Oliver Gallaugher has opted for a combination of polished and sandblasted elements. This isn't a tool watch trying to masquerade as dressy; it's simply different, offering a tactile experience thanks to the use of 904L stainless steel. Wearability has also been a key consideration, with the proportions now a more compact 38mm diameter and 8.8mm thickness. This places it firmly in the comfortable, on-trend category, a notable shift from the previous, larger model.
Another distinctive feature is the thin bezel, which provides an expansive view of the dial. This time, it's polished, adding a touch of premium feel. Functionality hasn't been overlooked either, with a 5-layer anti-reflective coating on the sapphire crystal and a water resistance rating of 50 meters. Each case is individually numbered, with a maximum production run of only 35 pieces.
The Dial:
Oliver Gallaugher draws inspiration from his family of engineers and decorative artists, and this is evident in the dial's subtle artistry. The first thing you'll notice is the linear brushed blue lacquered finish – a refreshing departure from the ubiquitous radial sunburst. This is subtly punctuated by uniquely engraved rhodium-finished stars that appear to twinkle as light dances across the surface. The minute track seems to float above the dial, meticulously engraved into the underside of the sapphire crystal and filled with Grade X1 Super-LumiNova for excellent low-light legibility.
The bright lume extends to the tips of the hands, crafted from 3D luminous ceramic. The hands themselves are made from 904L stainless steel, then brushed and polished. Oliver Gallaugher claims this is a first in watchmaking (though, I can't independently verify that). The dial is otherwise uncluttered, allowing the finishing to take center stage, with only a white, pad-printed O.G. logo at the 12 o'clock position.
The Movement:
If the front of the watch wasn't captivating enough, flipping it over reveals another world of beauty. The exhibition case back offers a full view of the movement, and it's a sight to behold. This model features a Swiss-made movement from Le Temps Manufacturer in Val-de-Travers, Switzerland. The LTM5000-G is a manually wound calibre with exquisite decoration, including a semi-skeletonized design that provides a deeper view into the movement's inner workings. The bridges are adorned with Geneva striping, and high-polished chamfers complete the aesthetic.
Despite the absence of a seconds hand, this new model beats at a more traditional 4Hz, compared to the previous model's 2Hz. The power reserve has also been significantly boosted to 60 hours, promising improved accuracy. The attention to detail extends to the movement, clearly influenced by Oliver's family's pursuit of perfection.
The Strap:
Even the straps are a testament to Oliver Gallaugher's dedication to detail. He's chosen handmade straps from Handdn, available in blue or light grey calf leather Alcantara, with matching stitching. Each strap is secured with a 904L stainless steel pin buckle that mirrors the case's polished and blasted finish. Quick-release spring bars make strap changes effortless, and with a 20mm lug width, the customization possibilities are endless.
Oliver Gallaugher Deep Space Blue: Pricing and Availability
The Oliver Gallaugher Deep Space Blue is a limited edition of just 35 pieces. Each watch will be made to order, with an estimated delivery time of 8-12 months. The price is US$12,800.
So, what are your thoughts on this stunning timepiece? Do you appreciate the new blue dial? Would you consider waiting for a bespoke watch like this? Share your opinions in the comments below!
