Patience may be a virtue, but when it comes to bespoke watches, it’s practically a necessity—especially if you’re seeking something as unique as Oliver Gallaugher’s latest creation. But here’s where it gets controversial: is the wait truly worth it for a timepiece that dares to break the mold? Let’s dive into the details and decide.
Back in August 2023, we first laid eyes on the Oliver Gallaugher Deep Space, a watch that immediately stood out for its meticulous craftsmanship and unconventional design. Now, it’s back with a stunning all-blue dial that’s sure to turn heads. But this isn’t just a color change—it’s a reimagining of what a luxury watch can be.
The Case: Tradition Meets Innovation
At first glance, the Deep Space’s case appears reassuringly traditional, with its clean, circular profile and slim, softly curved lugs. But look closer, and you’ll notice the finishing is anything but ordinary. A blend of polished and sandblasted surfaces on 904L stainless steel gives it a tactile, premium feel. And here’s the part most people miss: the proportions have been downsized to 38mm, making it a perfect fit for the current trend toward more compact, wearable designs.
The bezel, now polished instead of sandblasted, offers a widescreen view of the dial while adding a touch of elegance. Functionality hasn’t been overlooked either—a 5-layer anti-reflective coating on the sapphire crystal and 50-meter water resistance ensure this beauty is as practical as it is stylish. Each case is individually numbered, limited to just 35 pieces.
The Dial: A Starry Night on Your Wrist
Oliver Gallaugher’s family background in engineering and decorative arts shines through in the dial’s intricate details. The linear brushed blue lacquered finish is a refreshing departure from the typical radial sunburst, while hand-engraved rhodium-finished stars seem to twinkle as light dances across the surface. The minute track, engraved into the underside of the sapphire crystal and filled with Super-LumiNova, appears to float—a subtle yet brilliant touch.
The hands, crafted from 3D luminous ceramic and 904L stainless steel, are a testament to Gallaugher’s commitment to innovation. While he claims this is a first in watchmaking, it’s the kind of bold statement that invites debate. Is this truly groundbreaking, or a clever reinterpretation of existing techniques? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
The Movement: A Mechanical Masterpiece
Flip the watch over, and you’re greeted by a flat sapphire exhibition case back revealing the LTM5000-G movement. This Swiss-made, manually wound calibre is a work of art, with Geneva striping on the bridges and high-polished chamfers. The semi-skeletonised design offers a deeper glimpse into the mechanics, beating at a traditional 4Hz with a 60-hour power reserve. It’s a significant upgrade from the previous model, but does it justify the price tag? That’s for you to decide.
The Strap: Handcrafted Luxury
Even the straps are a masterclass in attention to detail. Handmade by Handdn, the tapered calf leather Alcantara straps come in blue or light grey, with matching stitching and a 904L stainless steel pin buckle. Quick-release spring bars make strap swaps effortless, though with a 20mm lug width, customization options are virtually endless.
Pricing and Availability
The Oliver Gallaugher Deep Space Blue is limited to 35 pieces, each made to order with an estimated delivery time of 8-12 months. At US$12,800, it’s an investment—but is it one you’d make? And this is the part most people miss: bespoke watches like this aren’t just about telling time; they’re about owning a piece of art that reflects your individuality. So, is the Deep Space Blue worth the wait and the price? Share your thoughts below—we’d love to hear your take on this bold, boundary-pushing timepiece.
