The developers at the major watch companies walk a fine line as they weigh their own visions and horological ambitions against commercial expediency. Even in the collector’s market, disciplined product managers have to create pieces that both grab the attention of a very jaded audience and cast the appropriate halo on the rest of the brand. Doing so reinforces the company’s watchmaking values in pieces that few can buy but, when worn on one’s wrist, many others will admire. Fortunately, not all developments are bound by such strict parameters and instead will grant designers the freedom to pursue truly unique…