Assembling Your Own Timepiece at Studio Underd0g: A Hands-On Journey

In a bold move that redefines the relationship between watch enthusiasts and their timepieces, Studio Underd0g, the imaginative brand spearheaded by Richard Benc, has inaugurated 'The D0ghouse' – a pioneering watch assembly facility located in the United Kingdom. This unique establishment offers an immersive experience where individuals can personally construct their own 01Series Guava timepiece. More than just a workshop, The D0ghouse serves as a vibrant hub where intricate horological craftsmanship meets playful design, allowing participants to grasp the complexities of watch assembly firsthand. This initiative not only deepens appreciation for mechanical watches but also solidifies Studio Underd0g's commitment to fostering a new generation of watchmaking expertise in Britain.

The creation of The D0ghouse marks a significant evolution for Studio Underd0g, transforming its operations from relying heavily on external specialists to establishing its own robust assembly capabilities. This strategic shift, driven by Richard Benc's vision, ensures greater control over quality and enhances the brand's 'assembled in Great Britain' ethos. Participants in the assembly experience are guided through every meticulous step, from marrying delicate movements with vibrant dials to securing minuscule components, thereby gaining an intimate understanding of the dedication and precision required in watchmaking. This hands-on approach not only demystifies the craft but also empowers individuals with a tangible connection to their self-assembled watches, reinforcing the brand's unique position in the industry.

The Immersive Workshop: A Fusion of Design and Craftsmanship

Studio Underd0g's newly opened 'The D0ghouse' in Maidenhead, UK, offers a truly distinctive experience, blurring the lines between an engaging showroom and an educational watch assembly workshop. Priced at £700, participants are invited to sit at a professional watchmaker's bench, equipped with tweezers, a loupe, and precision tools, to personally assemble their own 01Series Guava watch. This isn't merely a passive tour; it's an active, hands-on challenge designed to give individuals a profound appreciation for the intricate process of watchmaking. The experience extends beyond the assembly itself, as the venue, a Victorian townhouse, boasts an interior design that fuses the whimsical aesthetic of Wes Anderson with the imaginative flair of Willy Wonka, creating an environment that is both inspiring and conducive to focused craftsmanship.

The journey into watch assembly begins with a thorough introduction to the various components: the movement, dial, hands, crystal, and crown, all destined to be meticulously integrated into the watch case. Expert Assembly Trainer Josh Sable, with a background at esteemed brands like Rolex and Bremont, meticulously guides each participant through the stages. From attaching the dial and securing the movement with notoriously tiny screws and clamps to precisely applying the hands and fitting the domed sapphire crystal, every step demands unwavering attention and a steady hand. The process culminates in the securing of an open caseback, revealing the movement that participants have painstakingly brought to life, proudly engraved with the words "Assembled By Me." This rigorous yet rewarding experience challenges participants' dexterity and patience, fostering a deep respect for the artistry and precision inherent in mechanical watchmaking.

From Vision to Vertical Integration: The Evolution of Studio Underd0g

Studio Underd0g's establishment of 'The D0ghouse' signifies a pivotal transformation from its origins as a nascent brand reliant on external manufacturing to a vertically integrated entity with its own assembly capabilities. Initially, the brand's "assembled in Great Britain" claim depended heavily on Horologium, a Maidenhead-based assembly specialist, which Studio Underd0g eventually acquired to secure its long-term production and quality control. This strategic move, finalized in December 2025, not only brought assembly in-house but also expanded Studio Underd0g's annual production to nearly 15,000 mechanical watches, positioning it as a significant player in the British watchmaking landscape. This transition from a creative concept, born from Richard Benc's initial "watermelon-inspired" design, to a robust manufacturing operation reflects the brand's maturity and its enduring commitment to its British identity.

The decision to bring assembly in-house, particularly for watches featuring movements like the Seagull ST-1901B, directly addresses industry-wide concerns about assembly quality, which often underpins the performance of such calibers. By controlling the assembly process at The D0ghouse, Studio Underd0g ensures that each timepiece meets rigorous standards, providing tangible benefits that extend beyond a mere marketing slogan. This dedication to craftsmanship, coupled with the brand's unique aesthetic and the innovative assembly experience offered to the public, has firmly established Studio Underd0g as a serious contender in the horological world. It represents a commendable effort to revive and cultivate watchmaking skills in the UK, demonstrating that a brand born from an unconventional vision can achieve remarkable success and contribute meaningfully to the industry.