Norman Foster has entered the world of watchmaking for the first time through a partnership with the independent brand Lebond. The collaboration results in a pair of mechanical watches that translate the architect's core principles of proportion, engineering, and functional clarity into horology. Developed alongside the Norman Foster Foundation's Design & Innovation Unit, the project prioritizes the watch as a practical everyday tool rather than a miniature architectural statement, drawing heavily on Foster's personal experience as a pilot and frequent traveler.
The design features a bidirectional 12-hour bezel that enables dual-time zone tracking without the need for a conventional GMT hand. The case measures 38.5mm in diameter and is crafted from Grade 5 titanium, eliminating traditional lugs entirely to allow an integrated rubber strap to flow directly from the case and wrap closely around the wrist. This construction offers a thickness of just 10mm and provides 50 meters of water resistance.
Two distinct editions are available: the Natural Titanium Edition and the Black Edition. The Natural version combines matte sandblasted, brushed, and polished surfaces with a sunray-finished dial, polished nickel hands, and a light grey FKM rubber strap. In contrast, the Black Edition adopts an instrument-like aesthetic with matte black DLC-coated titanium, a black lacquered dial, and a matching strap. Both models feature blue-emitting Super-LumiNova, a date window at 3 o'clock, and interchangeable integrated straps secured by titanium deployant clasps.
Powering both timepieces is an ETA 2892-A2 automatic caliber visible through a sapphire caseback, offering a 50-hour power reserve. The movement is distinguished by a custom five-perforation rotor rendered in vivid blue for the natural titanium version and red for the black model. Foster designed the watch with adaptability in mind, utilizing a modular strap attachment system that allows owners to personalize the piece as new combinations are introduced over time. The restrained typography and compact proportions reflect his preference for an object that feels timeless rather than fashionable.
Both the Lebond Norman Foster Natural Titanium Edition and Black Edition are currently available to order through Lebond. Each model is priced at €3,500 EUR, which is approximately $4,000 USD.
Sources: Hypebeast.