Who Inspires Us? - The Watchmaker’s Watchmakers

Written By Ty Cacek

From designers, dial artists, and independent watchmakers, to modders, tinkerers, and other madmen of timekeeping, there is no shortage of breathtaking talent in the horological industry. Please take a moment to enjoy some of the artisans who continue to inspire me every day:


1. Atelier Holthinrichs


2. Red5 Watchworks

  • A true pioneer of modern, small-scale dial engraving from fiber lasers to cnc processes

  • Contributor to many watches seen completed by Sartory Billard

  • The man and mini-mentor whom has almost single-handedly been my benchmark for quality, design, and technical improvement

  • Instagram: @red5watchworks


3. Sartory Billard

  • Setting the standard for bespoke luxury watch projects

  • Collaborates with some of the best artisans in the world to produce watches with breathtaking dials

  • Website: https://sartory-billard.com/

  • Instagram: @sartorybillard

4. Sergey Shherban / Dialstudio.us

  • A Ukrainian master of low-cost, custom dials within the seikomod and microbrand community

  • Developer and producer of watch modification parts from dials to chapter rings and bezel inserts

  • the man and mentor who helped me make designs come true before i ever engraved my first dial

  • Website: https://dialstudio.us/

  • Instagram: @dialstudio.us

5. Yu Andoh / AndoAndoAndo

  • Brilliant designer of contemporary-styled watches, components, and modifications

  • Brand emphasis on fresh design and inclusivity

  • Responsible for inspiring a generation of Seiko-modders and watch tinkerers

  • Upcoming MAISON CACEK collaborator (stay tuned!!)

  • Website: https://andoandoando.com/

  • IG: @andoandoando_design

6. Björn Otto Jay Peacock

  • A wickedly talented engraver, dialmaker, strap maker, mod-designer, and watch builder

  • Highly specialized in 3d engraved designs, often with a “steampunk” aesthetic

  • One of the most helpful, kind, and generous people I’ve met in the industry

  • If you don’t buy a custom watch from me, definitely buy one from him

  • Website: https://www.ottostraps.co.uk/

  • Instagram: Likes to keep things “low key”

Ty Cacek