Luca Make Watch - Hand-Painted Custom Watch Dials by Independent Watchmaker

Luca Make Watch

A hand-painted watch
that tells your story.

One story at a time.

Specifications

Commission Process

1

Start a Quick Chat with Me

  • Tell me what's on your mind: what inspired you, it can be an idea, a memory, a feeling.
  • Best to start with a reference photo and a few words.
  • I'll listen, ask a few questions, and we'll shape the idea together.
2

I'll Propose a Plan

  • Once I understand what you're looking for, I'll share ideas and options.
  • You'll get a clear quote (most pieces are between £300 - £500 based on complexity).
  • If it feels right, a £100 deposit saves your spot on my calendar.
3

I Paint

  • This part takes time and care-typically within 3 weeks to complete.
  • You'll see photo updates as I progress.
  • We can make little adjustments along the way.
4

You Approve & I Deliver

  • Once you say "yes, that's the one!" I assemble and test the watch.
  • After I receive the remaining payment, I'll ship and provide tracking information.

Common Questions

What kind of paint do you use? Will it fade? Is the watch waterproof?
  • I use premium acrylic paints designed for miniature and dial art. They offer rich color, strong adhesion, and long-lasting durability on metal surfaces.
  • Additionally, I apply a protective layer on top to enhance durability and prevent fading.
  • The watch is not made for swimming or showering, but it can handle daily splashes or light rain.
Is custom work expensive? How much does it cost?
  • Prices typically range from £300 to £500, depending on design complexity.
  • Total cost breakdown: The final cost includes the base price (watch creation: £300-500), shipping costs, and potential additional fees (international transfer charges and customs duties for your country, typically ranging from £25 to £70).
Is the movement reliable? How long will it last?
  • The movement I chose is the Seagull ST2130, a Chinese-made automatic movement.
  • It's based on over 20 years of engineering evolution, and one of the most reliable and serviceable movements used in custom watches.
  • It's a solid, trusted choice in many enthusiast-grade watches.
  • Specs:
    • - 28,800 bph high beat rate (smooth seconds hand)
    • - 28 jewels, ~40-hour power reserve
    • - Average daily error: within 5-10s
    • - Hacking & hand-winding supported
Can you ship internationally?
  • Yes! The studio is based in the UK and ships worldwide.
  • For remote areas, I'll find a way. Please feel free to ask.
How long does it take to finish?
  • Once painting begins, the dial takes about 2-3 weeks to complete.
  • Shipping usually takes 1-2 weeks, depending on location.
Do you only paint abstract or artistic styles? Can you do animals, portraits, text?
  • I can paint whatever you like! :) Landscapes, Portraits, pets, handwriting. As long as you provide clear reference images.
  • If I'm not confident about a request, I'll let you know upfront.
What payment methods do you accept?
  • I'll send an invoice to your email with three payment options:
  • Option 1 (Recommended for US and Europe): US customers can pay via Wise, while European and UK customers can use Revolut. This is the most cost-effective method with minimal fees.
  • Option 2 (All regions): Direct bank transfer is available worldwide, but please note you'll need to cover any transfer fees and currency conversion charges from your bank.
  • Option 3: PayPal is also accepted, but requires additional processing fees and currency conversion charges.
What is your warranty or return policy?
  • Each watch comes with a one-year warranty covering non-user damage (manufacturing defects, movement issues).
  • For warranty repairs, I'll cover the shipping costs both ways.
  • The warranty doesn't cover water damage, physical impacts, or normal wear and tear.
  • After the warranty period, I still offer repair services at cost.

About Me

Luca portrait

Hi, I am Luca.

I'm a watch dial artist,

and a mechanical watch lover.

My Story

I started out as a watch modder, swapping parts, building customs, chasing the joy of making something truly one-of-a-kind.

But it wasn't until I began painting that I felt a deeper connection. The first hand-painted watch I made was a birthday gift for my best friend - someone I hadn't seen for years.

The watch became a device that carried my best wishes, my concerns, and the cherishment of the time we spent together over the past decades.

To me, a hand-painted watch can symbolize many things: cherishment, commitment, or purpose, a device that holds personal value. It's a subtle reminder of a story, expresses emotion, and carries meanings that matters.

My Painting Styles

I don't limit myself. I love to see every watch completed as unique.

I've painted in classical, impressionist, realistic, Japanese, and many other styles. I love the challenge of something new every time.

Painting with Passion

I only paint when I'm in the right headspace - calm, focused, with music playing in the background. That's when I can give each dial the attention it deserves.

I love capturing the tiny details that can be easily overlooked. That's why I always take my time, never rushing.

I want each piece to be a little masterpiece, something that makes you smile every time you look at it.

Let's Connect

Whether you're returning or just discovering my work - thank you for being here.

If you have an idea in mind, or even just a spark, feel free to message me anytime on WhatsApp or Instagram. I'd love to hear your story and help bring your vision to life.

Contact Me

Reach Out Anytime

Have questions about my watches or interested in a custom piece? I'd love to hear from you. Here are the best ways to reach me, in order of preference:

WhatsApp

WhatsApp

Recommended! Fastest response time, easy to share photos and discuss ideas.

Instagram

Instagram

Follow my latest work and send me a DM to discuss your ideas.

Contact Form

Contact Form

Submit detailed inquiries and attach images of your ideas.

I typically respond within 24-48 hours. For urgent inquiries, WhatsApp is best!