Layered Design Mastery: The Sō Labs Layer Two Timepiece

In a world awash with timekeeping options, it takes a truly unique vision to carve out a distinctive space. Enter Sō Labs, a Chicago-based brand forged in the fires of horological enthusiasm by two kindred spirits back in 2019. Their mission, beautifully encapsulated by their name – Sō, Japanese for “beginning,” “creativity,” and “layer” – is to craft timepieces that are as visually engaging as they are thoughtfully designed. And their latest creation, the Layer Two, stands as a testament to this very ethos.

The name itself hints at the defining feature of this captivating watch: its dial. Sō Labs have embraced the concept of depth and dimension, creating a layered landscape that draws the eye and intrigues the mind. A central disc subtly marks the seconds, while a slender, skeletonized hand gracefully indicates the minutes. But it’s the bold, triangular hand charting the hours that truly anchors the design, creating a harmonious interplay of shapes and levels. This unique arrangement isn’t just visually arresting; it’s a masterclass in functional art, instantly recognizable and undeniably Sō Labs.

Beyond the innovative dial construction, the Layer Two ($1295) offers a remarkable degree of personalization through its diverse finish options. From the robust, contemporary feel of DLC-coated stainless steel to the classic gleam of polished surfaces and the understated elegance of brushed metal, each variant subtly alters the character of the watch, allowing you to select a piece that truly resonates with your personal style. This dedication to detail extends to the accompanying stainless steel bracelet, meticulously finished to match the case, and the inclusion of a complementary strap crafted by Veblenist, adding another layer of bespoke luxury to the package.

Beneath the surface, the Layer Two is powered by the reliably robust Swiss-made Sellita SW220-1 automatic movement. This workhorse ensures precision and dependability, boasting 26 jewels, hand-winding capabilities, and a frequency of 28,800 beats per hour for smooth sweeping seconds. But Sō Labs hasn’t simply slotted in a standard movement. In a stroke of creative genius, they’ve repurposed the day and date function to unlock an astounding 217 unique dial combinations. This clever manipulation ensures that each glance at your Layer Two is a subtly different and always engaging experience, transforming time-telling into a visual delight.

Encased in a 40mm stainless steel housing and water-resistant to 100 meters, the Sō Labs Layer Two is more than just a pretty face. It’s a robust and versatile companion for everyday adventures. Paired with a domed sapphire lens and meticulously crafted in every detail, from its dimensions to its 20mm lug width, the Layer Two embodies the spirit of modern watchmaking – playful, creative, and utterly design-focused. For those who appreciate horology infused with genuine passion and a commitment to pushing creative boundaries, the Sō Labs Layer Two offers a compelling and captivating proposition.

buy now from worn & wound | $1295