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Apiar Carbon1.0 OG: Carbon Fiber Sports Watch, 3D-Printed for Under $2,000
Carbon fiber sports watch with a titanium case, under $2,000, automatic, 3D-printed, Swiss automatic movement, British watch brand. A new way to make a watch using carbon fiber.
Although carbon fiber has been used in watchmaking, most carbon cases are made similarly: layers of material are compacted in a mold before machining down. The Carbon1.0 OG, Apiar's first sports watch, is a break from the norm for the company based in the UK. Composite-Based Additive Manufacturing (CBAM), a technique borrowed from industrial 3D printing, is used to make the case. It's worth looking at if you're searching for a carbon fiber automatic watch that stands out.
A Quick Overview of the Essential Features
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Case | Exterior case: 40.5mm carbon fiber composite; Inside case: 38mm Grade 23 titanium (Ti-6Al-4V ELI) |
| Movement | Automatic La Joux-Perret G101 from Switzerland. Power reserve: 68 hours |
| Dial | Black anodized, CNC-machined aluminum with an embossed pattern |
| Hands | Super-LumiNova in a light blue with sandblasting |
| Crystal | Sapphire with a coating that blocks reflections |
| Strap Size | 20/18mm |
| UK Material | Around 75% are British-made |
The Making of the Carbon Case
A stack of very thin carbon fiber sheets serves as the foundation for the outer case. A bonding agent is applied between the layers in an inkjet-like process, and a high-performance polymer called PEEK powder is added to the stack. Heat and pressure melt the PEEK and bond everything together into a rigid composite.
There is very little waste as there are no molds or a lot of heavy machining involved, and designers can experiment with shapes that would be expensive or impossible with traditional methods.
The case undergoes a 12-hour vibro-smoothing process following printing. The surface becomes matte as a result, and any sharp edges that could pierce the wrist are removed. Apiar doesn't hide the layered structure. The watch case's fine lines give it an industrial look and are evidence of the watch's construction.
The Titanium Core, Printed 3D-Style
A Laser Powder Bed Fusion (L-PBF)-constructed Grade 23 titanium frame is housed within the carbon shell. It provides stiffness and also serves as a structure for the twelve hour markers, surrounding a frame for the dial. The titanium is exposed through cutouts in the sides of the case, so you can see both dark, matte carbon and bright metal side by side.
As a result, a watch made of titanium and carbon is light yet feels solid. This hybrid design is one of the main selling points if you care about comfort.
Dial and Movement
A three-dimensional embossed pattern based on generative design and carbon fiber weave is applied to the machined aluminum dial. Durability is increased, and the finish, which is black anodized, matches the case.
The La Joux-Perret G101, a Swiss automatic movement with a power reserve of 68 hours, is contained within. You can take it off on Friday night, and on Monday morning, it will still be working. Due to its reputation for dependability, the G101 is a popular choice for independent brands.
Made in the UK, Apiar claims that the UK produces approximately 75% of each watch and plans to increase that percentage. Bremont and Christopher Ward, two other British watchmakers, face the challenge of making a watch that is completely British due to the Swiss movement.
Wearing Impressions
Weight, or the lack of it, is the distinctive quality. The carbon construction directly contributes to the watch's sensation of lightness on the wrist.
The dial layout is the only flaw. Given the sporty position, the indexes could be bolder, and there could be more lume. It's a simple fix for a future version, but important to know before buying.
Cost and Availability
There are two ways to order:
- Standard Model: Comes with a watch roll and a nylon strap from The Strap Tailor. Starting at $1,800 (£1,620).
- Additive Upgrade Version: Features a The Strap Tailor 20/18mm Alcantara strap, a titanium clasp printed in 3D, and a nylon PA12 travel case printed in 3D. US$2,080 / £1,820.
Delivery is expected approximately four months after purchase, and orders are open until the end of October 2026. Anyone who is interested should make their decision quickly due to the limited ordering window.
Is it worth purchasing the Apiar Carbon1.0 OG?
At this price, there are numerous established options for a conventional dive or field watch. The Carbon1.0 OG, on the other hand, offers something that few brands can match: a carbon case made without molds, a printed titanium frame, a proven Swiss movement, and a price that stays under $2,100. If you're drawn to new materials and methods of manufacturing, this is the watch for you.
Most Commonly Asked Questions
What materials make up the Apiar Carbon1.0 OG?
A 40.5mm outer case made of carbon fiber composite and CBAM, surrounding a 38mm inner case made of Grade 23 titanium.
Which movement does it use?
The La Joux-Perret G101 automatic, made in Switzerland, has a power reserve of 68 hours.
What is the cost?
Starting at US$1,800 or £1,620 for the standard version and US$2,080 / £1,820 for the Additive Upgrade package.
When will it be shipped?
Delivery is approximately four months after purchase, and orders close at the end of October 2026.
Where is it produced?
Apiar is a British brand and approximately 75% of each watch is made in the United Kingdom.
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