by Brent Robillard
Bespoke
Wilk Watchworks, established in 2010, is a Toronto-based company specializing in designing and building custom, handcrafted wristwatches. With over a decade of experience, they offer unique timepieces that blend artistic jewelry-making techniques with watchmaking. The Numeric Classic Skeleton with Lydian Fenestra, featured here, is a perfect example of the intricate design and quality craftsmanship that enthusiasts have come to expect from the brand. However, I feel that referring to Wilk Watchworks as a “brand” or as “they,” is almost a misnomer. Each piece is carefully handcrafted by one man–Scott Wilk–in Toronto, Canada. He answers the emails. Orders the parts. And… he also answers the phone. The Numeric Classic Skeleton showcases his dedication to creating unique, customizable watches. And, frankly, he’s a just a good guy. So let’s dive in.
Scott Wilk
Scott Wilk, the founder, has a background in fine arts and jewelry-making. He studied fine art in college and worked at a jewelry store, where he learned watchmaking from the store’s chief horologist. His training in metalsmithing and gemology has enabled him to develop watches with three-dimensional details and features that are not commonly found in mainstream watchmaking.
Scott specializes in creating custom watches, allowing clients to personalize various aspects of their timepieces. He designs and manufactures components such as dials and some hands in his Toronto workshop, while other parts are produced by suppliers according to their specifications. Movements are sourced from Switzerland and China, depending upon the watch, and Scott completes them upon arrival with bespoke decoration.
Advertisement
Key Features of the Numeric Classic Skeleton with Lydian Fenestra
Design and build
The watch features a 41mm, 316L stainless steel case with a thickness of 12mm and a lug-to-lug distance of 49mm. The case sides are vertically brushed, and there is a proliferation of polish along the top of the lugs and bezel.
The slightly domed sapphire crystal on the front provides clear visibility from all angles, while the flat mineral crystal on the back offers a view of the beautifully decorated movement. The finely brushed silver dial includes a lattice cutaway in the form of stylized W and the hour markers are Arabic numerals. Additionally, around the outside of the dial there is a railway track to count off the minutes. The skeletonized design reveals the balance wheel at 12 o’clock, a small seconds hand among the gears at 9 o’clock, and the mainspring at 5 o’clock, all adorned with elaborate engravings. The 7mm crown is engraved with the Wilk Watchworks logo, adding a personalized touch.
Movement
At the heart of the watch is a hand-wound, gunmetal-colored skeleton movement operating at 21,600 vibrations per hour, offering a 40-hour power reserve. While the movement is Chinese-made, it is meticulously decorated with intricate engravings and colored screws, providing a visual appeal that rivals higher-end watches. The display case back offers a close up of the inner workings, but Lydian fenestra on the dial also allows light to pour through for an additional show.
Advertisement
Strap
The Numeric Classic Skeleton comes on a choice of leather strap with stainless steel hardware in the form of a pin buckle or a dual folding deployant clasp. Colour choices for the strap include light brown, congnac, dark brown, navy blue, and black.
The Numeric Classic Skeleton, like all watches from Wilk Watchworks, is made to order and takes three to five weeks for delivery. A customized three-watch roll is also available for purchase.
Advertisement
Specs
| Case | 316L Stainless Steel 41mm Diameter 49mm Lug to Lug 20mm Lug width 12mm Thick 7mm Crown Display Case Back 50m Water Resistance |
| Dial & Crystal | Domed Sapphire Crystal Mineral Crystal Case Back Skeleton Dial Pencil Handset |
| Movement | Skeleton Hand wound Chinese Made Gunmetal Colour 21 600vph 40-hour Power Reserve |
| Strap | Leather /w Stainless Steel Hardware |
Wilk Watchworks Numeric Classic Skeleton
Advertisement
Final Thoughts
The Numeric Classic Skeleton with Lydian Fenestra is a testament to Scott’s commitment to delivering unique, handcrafted timepieces. Its combination of intricate design, quality materials, and customizable options makes it a compelling choice for watch enthusiasts seeking a distinctive addition to their collection. If you are looking for something off the beaten path, look no further the Wilk Watchworks. And, if you reach out with questions, you are sure to speak with Scott, himself.
Pricing & Availability
The watch retails for $845CAD. Please visit the website for further details.
Advertisement
About the author
Brent Robillard is a writer, educator, craftsman, and watch enthusiast. He is the author of four novels. You can follow him on Instagram.
Off The Cuff articles are full-length, hands-on reviews of the watch in question and represent the opinion of the author only. All photos are original, unless specified otherwise. If you would like to have your watch reviewed on this site, contact us here.
Please understand that using any links to products on this site might result in us making money.