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 are ready to cater to your instant gratification with their endless displays of ready-to-wear timepieces. But if you crave something truly unique, something that speaks to your individual taste, you’ll need to wait—and if you want it in a specific color, well, you’re in for an even longer journey. But here’s where it gets controversial: is the wait truly worth it, or are we romanticizing the process of bespoke craftsmanship?
Back in August 2023, we introduced you to Oliver Gallaugher’s Deep Space—a watch that redefined attention to detail with its starry-dialled masterpiece. 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 a new color; it’s a reimagined experience.
The Case
At first glance, the Deep Space case feels reassuringly traditional. Its clean, circular profile and slim, softly curved lugs stay true to classic watchmaking conventions. But look closer, and you’ll notice what sets it apart: the finishing. Instead of the usual brushed surfaces, Gallaugher opts for a combination of polished and sandblasted textures, giving it a tactile, almost sculptural quality. Crafted from 904L stainless steel, it’s a far cry from your typical tool or sports watch trying to pass as dressy—it’s simply different. And with dimensions scaled down to 38mm in diameter and 8.8mm in thickness, it sits comfortably in the compact, on-trend zone that’s dominating the watch scene right now.
Another standout detail? The bezel. This time, it’s polished rather than sandblasted, offering a widescreen view of the dial while adding a premium touch. It’s a bold departure from the original design, but one that works. Is this a step too far, or a welcome evolution? Let’s discuss.
The Dial
Oliver Gallaugher’s heritage—rooted in a family of engineers and decorative artists—shines through in the dial’s meticulous details. The first thing you’ll notice is the linear brushed blue lacquered finish, a refreshing twist on the radial sunburst we’re all so 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—a subtle yet genius touch for legibility in the dark.
The hands, crafted from 3D luminous ceramic and 904L stainless steel, are brushed and polished to perfection. Gallaugher claims this is a first in watchmaking—a bold statement, though one I can’t independently verify. The dial remains clutter-free, save for the white, pad-printed O.G. logo at twelve, letting the craftsmanship speak for itself.
The Movement
Flip the watch over, and you’re in for a treat. The flat sapphire exhibition case back reveals the entire movement—a Swiss-made LTM5000-G calibre by Le Temps Manufacturer. This manually wound masterpiece features a semi-skeletonised design, allowing you to peer deeper into its intricate workings. The bridges, adorned with Geneva striping and high-polished chamfers, are a testament to Gallaugher’s commitment to perfection.
Despite the absence of a seconds hand, the movement beats at a traditional 4Hz, up from the previous model’s 2Hz. And with a power reserve bumped to 60 hours, there’s little to complain about. But here’s the question: does a higher beat rate truly enhance accuracy, or is it just a marketing gimmick?
The Strap
Even the straps on the Deep Space are a masterclass in detail. Handmade by Handdn, they come in tapered calf leather Alcantara, available in blue or light grey with matching stitching. Each strap is paired with a 904L stainless steel pin buckle, featuring the same polished and blasted treatment as the case. Quick-release spring bars and a 20mm lug width make strap swaps a breeze, opening up endless customization possibilities.
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. At US$12,800, it’s an investment—but one that promises exclusivity and craftsmanship. Is it worth the price tag, or are we paying for the name? I’ll leave that to you to decide.
Specifications
- 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 meters
- Crystal: 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 Deep Space Blue a masterpiece worth the wait, or is it overhyped? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
