Norman Foster x Lebond

What happens when one of the world's best-known architects designs a watch for the first time? At 91, Norman Foster has finally explored that question with Lebond, creating a mechanical timepiece that feels surprisingly understated. Instead of borrowing shapes from his buildings, he has focused on something more practical: how a watch should sit, function and become part of everyday life.

 

Developed with the Design & Innovation Unit of the Norman Foster Foundation, the watch begins with a simple design decision. The case has no conventional lugs. Instead, its integrated rubber strap continues directly from the titanium body, creating a clean silhouette that wraps around the wrist.

 

There are two versions. The Natural Titanium Edition combines brushed, polished and sandblasted surfaces with a sunray dial and light grey strap. The Black Edition takes a more technical direction, pairing matte black DLC-coated titanium with a black lacquered dial and matching rubber strap.

 

Both measure 38.5mm across and just 10mm thick. Those proportions give the watch a relatively compact profile, making it easy to imagine with a tailored shirt or relaxed weekend clothing. The natural titanium version has a quieter, architectural character, while the black model feels closer to a modern aviation instrument.

 

Foster's experience as a pilot influenced one of the watch's most useful features: a bidirectional 12-hour bezel that allows the wearer to track another time zone without an additional GMT hand. It is a straightforward solution that keeps the dial uncluttered.

 

Inside sits the Swiss ETA 2892-A2 automatic movement, offering a 50-hour power reserve. A sapphire caseback reveals a specially designed rotor finished in blue for the titanium model and red for the black edition. Both watches also feature a date display, luminous hands and markers, and 50-meter water resistance.

 

Another thoughtful detail is the interchangeable integrated strap system, developed to let owners change the look of their watch as new options become available. Foster clearly wanted an object that could adapt rather than remain tied to one particular style.