STRACTRA, the New 3D-printed Titanium Watch

Yes, that’s a watch you’re looking at! Its design is especially innovative, featuring a highly organic shape that breaks away from the traditional round or square watch faces typically seen on the market. What makes it even more interesting is that it was partially created using additive manufacturing, specifically through a titanium-based process. Called STRACTRA, the watch was designed by Ayoub Ahmad and is currently a conceptual project.

This isn’t the first 3D-printed watch to surface. There have been plenty of projects showcasing all kinds of designs, materials, and technologies. Additive manufacturing gives watchmakers the freedom to fully express their creativity and explore entirely new features.

The watch combines geometry, nature, and technology.

It includes two types of indicators: on the right, a 180° arc displays the hours; in the center, a 360° ring shows the minutes as they pass. It’s definitely an unconventional way to tell time, and whether it’s truly practical is up for debate. Still, the movement is housed in a 3D-printed titanium case, which is the centerpiece of STRACTRA.

The exact manufacturing process hasn’t been specified, but given the nature of the project, it was likely made using laser powder bed fusion. The designer explains that additive manufacturing allowed him to create far more complex geometry and also made it easier to iterate during the prototyping phase. As a result, STRACTRA integrates an hour arc, a minute circle, and wraps it all in a hexagonal form that defines the overall shape of the watch.

Ayoub Ahmad explained, “STRACTRA reimagines timekeeping through a fusion of geometry, nature, and innovation. Grounded in simple geometric foundations, it evolves into an organic, branching form that feels grown, not made. Using titanium 3D printing, every detail mirrors the beauty of natural patterns, uniting form and function.”

Additive manufacturing was also used during the prototyping phase to design the most suitable case.

It looks like the watch will be on display at the upcoming Dubai Watch Week, taking place from November 19 to 23. In the meantime, you can find more information HERE. So, what do you think of STRACTRA and the use of 3D printing in watch design? Let us know in a comment below or on our LinkedIn or Facebook pages! Plus, don’t forget to sign up for our free weekly Newsletter to get the latest 3D printing news straight to your inbox. You can also find all our videos on our YouTube channel.

All Photo Credits: STRACTRA