Eduardo Souto Moura’s elegant design for Cauny Watch

 

When tasked with designing a watch, 2011 Pritzker Prize honoree Eduardo Souto Moura created a timepiece that is both functional and aesthetically refined. The Cauny Souto Moura watch embodies simplicity and elegance while addressing the practical requirements of a timepiece.

 

Souto Moura’s design philosophy is rooted in purpose. Known for his pragmatic and machine-inspired approach, the architect believes that while architecture must solve practical problems, it also needs an intangible quality that transcends mere functionality. This philosophy is evident in the design of the Cauny watch. The watch features a domed sapphire crystal that reduces the perceived case height, which is an ultra-thin 5.10mm. The case houses a Japanese Mi-9t22 movement and is divided into three layers: polished top and bottom sections, with a brushed middle section.

curved spring bars embrace cauny watch's case designed by eduardo souto moura
all images courtesy of Cauny

 

 

cauny watch’s case seamlessly integrates with the bracelet

 

A critical design aspect for Souto Moura was the seamless integration of the bracelet and case. To avoid the disjointed look created by common triangular gaps when attaching a linear strap to a round case, he designed small lugs and curved spring bars, ensuring a cohesive and integrated appearance. The dial design also reflects his meticulous attention to detail. Roman numerals are strategically placed at 12, 3, 6, and 9, with the number one serving as an axis. This creates a legible dial where light interacts with the case and inner silver rim, enhancing its visual appeal.

 

Souto Moura’s watch design is not only about aesthetics but also about accessibility. Priced at 185€, the watch is designed to be affordable. It comes in two sizes (38mm and 32mm) and various color combinations: black strap with grey dial, grey strap with white dial, rose gold case with white dial and black strap, and grey strap with grey dial. Eduardo Souto Moura’s Cauny watch is a harmonious blend of functionality, elegance, and thoughtful design, reflecting his architectural ethos.

curved spring bars embrace cauny watch's case designed by eduardo souto moura
Eduardo Souto Moura’s Cauny watch blends functionality and aesthetic refinement

curved spring bars embrace cauny watch's case designed by eduardo souto moura
the watch features a domed sapphire crystal for reduced case height

curved spring bars embrace cauny watch's case designed by eduardo souto moura
the case houses a Japanese Mi-9t22 movement

curved spring bars embrace cauny watch's case designed by eduardo souto moura
seamless integration of bracelet and case with small lugs and curved spring bars

curved spring bars embrace cauny watch's case designed by eduardo souto moura
the watch is available in various sizes and color combinations for different preferences

curved spring bars embrace cauny watch's case designed by eduardo souto moura
designed by Eduardo Souto Moura, the watch embodies simplicity and elegance

curved spring bars embrace cauny watch's case designed by eduardo souto moura
the Cauny Souto Moura watch embodies simplicity and elegance

curved spring bars embrace cauny watch's case designed by eduardo souto moura
Souto Moura’s pragmatic design philosophy is evident in this timepiece

 

project info:

 

name: Cauny Souto Moura
architect: Eduardo Souto Moura
brand: Cauny | @cauny

 

 

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edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom