Commanding Attention
The CHOPTANK showcases the importance of specialized case-making, a craft often overlooked by mainstream brands in favor of digital aesthetics. With its recent dial refresh and the essence of TWC front and center, the CHOPTANK now makes a strong impression in print, though nothing quite compares to experiencing it in person. Holding a CHOPTANK, feeling the weight and the subtle turbulence of its spinning rotor, creates a deep connection to the instrument's functions and handcrafted qualities.
The tonneau-shape and its sharp set of finishes is one of the finest examples of case-making in the watch industry. That’s a TWC Guarantee. Read about TWC Case-Making.
The rectangular watch has long been an alternative expression of sophistication and elegance. Traditionally, it is a timepiece designed to complement formal attire, subtly revealing itself beneath the cuff at just the right moments, embodying a sense of understated luxury. Its refined silhouette sets it apart from the more common round watches, making it a timeless, yet tasteful, icon in the world of horology.
In recent decades, the rectangular watch has evolved, extending beyond its classical associations with formal dress to embrace modern trends. Even in the world of smartwatches, the rectangular form has found a place, bringing a blend of functionality, style and casual wearability to everyday life.
As fashion and cultural norms have shifted towards more relaxed styles, the rectangular watch has also adapted, taking on new aesthetic functions. Once the exclusive domain of formal occasions, it now embodies versatility, balancing modernity with tradition. Its presence in contemporary collections signifies not just a nod to the past, but a redefinition of how elegance can be worn today.
In this second edition of the Choptank, the TWC logo takes center stage—a testament to the identity of Towson Watch Company, the shapes that define the brand, and its history of master watchmakers.
At the surface, the manufacturer’s mark certifies its handmade qualities and professional-grade utility. Delve deeper, and discover the brand’s treasured history is revealed, and its distinctive identity becomes clearer– In this second edition of the Choptank, the TWC logo takes center stage on its own sub-dial, enhancing the intangible forces that come with it. The stronger brand identity on the dial hints at the “mysteries” built into the rest of the timepiece. Just as a book needs a cover, a fine watch needs a distinctive mark that introduces the values inherent to both the watch and the brand.
The latest edition of the CHOPTANK, Ref. E250-2, was developed by Spencer Shattuck and Towson’s team of young watchmakers who were apprentices of Hartwig Balke. The professional-grade requirements, manufacturing process, and design theory of the original CHOPTANK remain consistent in this second edition.
TWC Co-Founder, Hartwig Balke, envisioned this Towson Watch to merge traditional watchmaking with aesthetic distinction. He aimed to translate the elegance of a rectangular watch into a bolder, more functional form, comparable to the professional-grade instruments he was renowned for making.
The new design reflects fresh perspectives from Towson’s new designers and watchmakers, while remaining deeply rooted in Hartwig’s traditional approach to watchmaking. The legibility of the full-calendar complication set is improved and the handmade qualities of the watch are further revealed with less text and stronger form. The prominently-placed TWC Shield Logo signifies the history and meaning inherent to the instrument.
