Bespoke masterpieces produced by our co-founders and master watchmakers, Hartwig Balke and George Thomas. Some built from scratch, and others built off of prior designs. Explore here.
One of Towson Watch Company’s most notorious horological projects was the restoration and recreation of the world's oldest mechanical watch - Philip Melanchthon's table clock. This project prompted a deep dive into the timepieces of the 16th century. Particularly, the spherical shape and ornate decorations of bisam-äpfel, originally used to contain musk and worn as pendants, caught our attention. These early pomander watches, later known as the 'Nuremberg Eggs,' were reproduced into Towson Watches by our founders. Drawing inspiration from the timeless elegance and innovation of the 16th century, these commemorative timepieces embody the rich heritage of horology while embracing modern craftsmanship.
The silver spherical watch, boasting a substantial diameter of 75mm, houses a remarkable split-second chronograph with minute repetition. Crafted from sterling silver, the case mirrors the intricate pierced and engraved design reminiscent of the Melanchthon watch meticulously restored by TWC. The miniature 18k gold watch we crafted housed a movement smaller than a cent coin, a rare find that had been in our possession for quite some time. It was a rim wind mechanism with an 11mm diameter and remarkably, required only minor repairs, despite dating back to 1865. Inspired by Melanchthon's historic timepiece, we opted to utilize this antique restored movement to create a smaller version of the spherical watch, but crafted in 18ct gold. The case was intricately pierced and engraved akin to its larger silver counterpart, showcased the artistry and attention to detail synonymous with Towson Watch Company.
Towson Watch Company, renowned for its expertise in mechanical watchmaking and restoration, collaborates with brands outside the horological industry to create bespoke timepieces. Co-founders Hartwig Balke and George Thomas, esteemed master watchmakers, leveraged their restoration prowess to launch their own line of timepieces in 1998, alongside restoration museum and auction projects.
In 2010, Towson embarked on a collaboration with Jaguar U.S.A., leveraging the popularity of its Mission Collection to craft specialty items imbued with patriotic significance, complementing the brand's automotive offerings. Car customers and Jaguar owners were given the opportunity to purchase these custom Towson Watches with their vehicles. The dial takes the classic design of the STS-99 Chronograph and is embellished with sterling silver and black roman numerals. The rotor on the 7750 and 7751 movements is skeletonized with a gold-plated Jaguar logo by Jochen Benzinger. A standard chronograph with date model and full-calendar edition was produced.
A commissioned timepiece for awarded members of the Music Teachers National Association. Handcrafted from scratch by George Thomas and Jochen Benzinger, featuring a 34mm 18k white gold case. The frosted sterling silver dial was made by Jochen Benzinger with his vintage rose engine. Towson Watch Company’s initials are stamped in cursive to complement the tiomepiece’s classic appeal. Adorning the dial is a rose-gold badge symbolizing the passion for music and teaching, reflecting the dedication and excellence of MTNA members.
