Patience, they say, is a virtue—and when it comes to bespoke watches, this adage couldn’t be more accurate. Sure, if you’re in a hurry, big-name brands will happily cater to your instant gratification with their ready-to-wear collections. But if you crave something truly unique, something that speaks to your individuality, you’ll need to wait. And if you want it in a specific color? Well, buckle up, because that wait just got longer. But here’s where it gets controversial: is the extra time and effort truly worth it for a watch that’s not just off-the-shelf? Let’s dive into Oliver Gallaugher’s latest creation to find out.
Back in August 2023, we introduced you to the Oliver Gallaugher Deep Space, a timepiece that stood out for its meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail. Now, after a full cycle of refinement, the Deep Space is back—this time in a stunning all-blue dial finish that’s as captivating as the night sky. And this is the part most people miss: it’s not just about the color; it’s about the evolution of a design that’s both familiar and refreshingly new.
The Case: Tradition Meets Innovation
At first glance, the Deep Space’s case feels reassuringly classic. Its clean, circular profile and slim, softly curved lugs nod to tradition. But look closer, and you’ll notice the finishing—a blend of polished and sandblasted surfaces—that sets it apart. This isn’t a tool watch or a sports watch masquerading as a dress piece; it’s something entirely its own. Crafted from 904L stainless steel, the case offers a tactile experience that’s as satisfying to touch as it is to look at. And with dimensions scaled down to 38mm in diameter and 8.8mm in thickness, it sits comfortably in the compact, wearable zone that’s all the rage right now.
The bezel, too, has been reimagined. This time, it’s polished rather than sandblasted, giving the watch a more premium feel while framing the dial in a widescreen view. It’s a subtle change, but one that adds to the overall sophistication. Practicality hasn’t been overlooked either—a 5-layer anti-reflective coating on the sapphire crystal ensures clarity, while a 50-meter water resistance rating keeps it functional. Each case is individually numbered, limited to just 35 pieces, making this a true collector’s item.
The Dial: A Starry Night on Your Wrist
Oliver Gallaugher’s heritage—rooted in a family of engineers and decorative artists—shines through in the dial’s intricate details. The first thing you’ll notice is the linear brushed blue lacquered finish, a refreshing departure from the radial sunburst patterns we’re accustomed to. But it’s the hand-engraved rhodium-finished stars that steal the show, twinkling as light dances across the dial. The minute track, engraved into the underside of the sapphire crystal and filled with Grade X1 Super-LumiNova, appears to float above the surface, ensuring legibility even in the dark.
The hands, crafted from 3D luminous ceramic and 904L stainless steel, are a testament to Gallaugher’s commitment to detail. Brushed and polished to perfection, they’re said to be a first in watchmaking—though, admittedly, that’s a claim we can’t independently verify. The dial remains uncluttered, save for the subtle O.G. logo at twelve, letting the craftsmanship speak for itself.
The Movement: A Mechanical Masterpiece
Flip the watch over, and you’re greeted with a sight that’s as breathtaking as the front. The flat sapphire exhibition case back reveals the LTM5000-G movement, a Swiss-made manually wound calibre from Le Temps Manufacturer in Val-de-Travers. This semi-skeletonised design offers a deeper view into the mechanics, with bridges adorned in Geneva striping and high-polished chamfers that elevate the aesthetic. But here’s the question: does the switch from a German to a Swiss movement enhance the watch’s appeal, or does it lose something in the process? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
Despite the absence of a seconds hand, the movement beats at a traditional 4Hz, up from the previous model’s 2Hz. The power reserve has also been extended to 60 hours, ensuring accuracy and reliability. Every detail, from the striping to the chamfers, reflects Gallaugher’s unwavering dedication to perfection.
The Strap: Handcrafted Elegance
Even the straps on the Deep Space are a testament to Gallaugher’s attention to detail. Handmade by Handdn, they come in two tapered calf leather Alcantara options—blue or light grey—with matching stitching. Each strap is paired with a 904L stainless steel pin buckle, featuring the same polished and blasted finish as the case. Quick-release spring bars make strap swaps effortless, and with a 20mm lug width, customization options are virtually endless.
Pricing and Availability
The Oliver Gallaugher Deep Space Blue is limited to just 35 pieces, each made to order with an estimated delivery time of 8-12 months. Priced at US$12,800, it’s an investment in craftsmanship and exclusivity. But is it worth the wait and the price tag? That’s for you to decide.
Brand: Oliver Gallaugher
Model: Deep Space Blue
Case Dimensions: 38mm (D) x 8.8mm (T) x 44mm (LTL)
Case Material: 904L stainless steel
Water Resistance: 50 metres
Crystal(s): Sapphire front and back
Dial: Brushed blue lacquer with hand-engraved rhodium stars
Strap: Calf leather Alcantara in blue or light grey, pin buckle
Movement: LTM5000-G by Le Temps Manufacturer, manually-wound
Power Reserve: 60 hours
Functions: Hours and minutes
Availability: Limited to 35 pieces, made to order
Price: US$12,800
So, what do you think? Is the Oliver Gallaugher Deep Space Blue a masterpiece worth the wait, or is it a step too far into the realm of exclusivity? Share your thoughts below—we’d love to hear your take!
