AÃRK Collective timepieces marry function and aesthetics
A good watch can be exceedingly hard to find – often something you find visually appealing will have had no thought put into its insides, or as a reverse argument the super-hardy products just aren’t very pretty. Finding a balance between style and workability is a challenge, but we’ve found just the thing. Nailing the perfect combination of seamless functionality and dreamy aesthetics is AÃRK Collective, a group of Melbourne-based creatives that you are going to want to make time for.
Founded in 2011, AÃRK Collective is a brand that recognises that good things take time. The formation of the group was centred on wanting to create objects that people connect with, as well as connecting with likeminded people through the power of design. After noticing a lack of Melbourne-based watch brands, the collective decided to focus their attention on creating timepieces that function beautifully but also have a unique look. The results are ranges of watches that epitomise good taste – loaded with detail but also uncomplicated and striking in their aesthetic. AÃRK is also no stranger to collaboration, having linked up with design studio Daniel Emma to create both its Multi and Marble collections.
The manufacturing process is something that AÃRK Collective has put a lot of thought and research into – it’s pretty much down to a science. At the heart of each watch lies a precision Japanese Quartz or Swiss Quartz movement, encased in custom-made elements that are individually sourced. AÃRK is in the loop with specialised trade companies within the watch industry – some of the leather straps come directly from Italy and others from iconic US tannery Horween Leather Co. The killer colour palettes also have some serious stories behind them, with each shade made with painstakingly Pantone-matched polyurethane plastic and other 316L aircraft-grade stainless steel components are CNC cut for precision. Nothing from AÃRK Collective is an afterthought, because this crew knows that the beauty is in the details.
If you think it’s time to get acquainted with AÃRK Collective, you can shop the full range online.