In the modern world, where mass-production is the norm, opening a boutique business specializing in handmade, special edition products may seem more fantasy than business savvy. But, armed with an arsenal of time-honored designs and expertly crafted mechanical timepieces, JS Watch Co. Reykjavík‘s founders took a leap of faith and opened the now thriving business.
Iceland may not be the traditional region associated with quality timepiece production, but with master watchmaker Gilbert Gudjonsson on their team, the endeavor was set to be a fruitful one. Boasting over 5 decades of experience, Gilbert initially discovered his passion for the craft at the age of 16 and spent weekends and holidays carefully honing his craft.
Gilbert brings his expertise to table at JS Watch Co., and along with Watchmaker and Technical Director, Sigurdur Gilbertsson; Director of Development, Julius Heidarsson and Design and Marketing Director, Grimkell Sigurthorsson, the team creates exclusive timepieces of the highest quality that combine superb mechanical movements with top designs and the best materials available. Their dedication to the craft of horology has made the JS Watch name synonymous with exceptionally desirable, high-end timepieces that are recognized worldwide for their excellence.
A small-scale manufacturer, their philosophy is to create and sell ‘only the very best’, and it is this philosophy that has catapulted JS Watches to the highest degree of eminence among watch collectors, enthusiasts and connoisseurs who seek to sport only the finest quality watches.
JS Watch Co. handcrafts individualized, personalized collectors’ items that are works of art to be cherished for generations – especially the exclusive limited edition pieces. An investment, yet still playing a key role in the lives of their beholders, the watches have been sought out by royalty, global leaders, celebrities and music idols alike.
From a humble, modest start with only one line of watches, JS Watch Co. now flaunts an impressive collection of awe-inspiring pieces, fit to compete with the most globally revered horology brands. Each watch is conceived and hand-assembled in the workshop, store and design studio at Laugavegur by master watchmakers that use only the highest quality Swiss movements and European-made parts and components. Perfection is key in the production process, thus every piece is given the personal attention to detail to achieve its flawless semblance, and with a limited production volume, personal character and exclusivity is integrated into each watch.
The Frisland Goð Special Edition is a true testament to their superlative production process. A unique, limited edition tribute piece, the Frisland Goð Special Edition is based on the company’s popular Frisland collection and pays homage to the destructive power of Iceland’s volcanoes. The polished black dial features a delicately placed layer of volcanic ash from the Eyjafjallajokull cloud that grounded European air traffic for weeks in late 2010. As a special touch, the word ‘Goð’ is etched onto the dial in a glowing red hue.
The watch’s case, which protects an automatic movement customized to JS Watch’s specifications, is constructed from 316L surgical steel and is water resistant up to 50 meters. The steel case is 42mm in diameter, and is engraved with alluring medieval and historic Icelandic motifs, as inspired by ancient native artifacts. The simple, bold aesthetic is accentuated with oversized white Arabic numerals at the 12 and 6 o’clock positions, while plain white indices complete the hour markings. A red sweeping hand complements the finish, creating a statement wrist piece with a timeless design.
The piece is assembled by hand, and the finished product has a power reserve of up to 42 hours and is visible through a sapphire case back. There is space for an engraving in the ancient Höfðaletur font on one side of the case, in which “Iceland” is printed by default. However, to create a truly bespoke piece, JS Watch suggests that each customer request a custom engraving (such as their name) to be spelled out in Höfðaletur on their treasured time piece.
The Frisland Goð Special Edition watch is only available by custom order, click here to find out more.