What does a watch design studio do?

A watch design studio handles the full creative and technical development of a timepiece collection — including concept, case and dial design, CAD development, techpack production, and supplier coordination. ACTE.5 operates as an external watch design department for premium and independent brands.

How long does it take to design a watch collection?

A typical watch design project at ACTE.5 runs between 3 and 9 months depending on scope — from a single new reference to a full multi-family collection. Concept phase takes 3 to 6 weeks, CAD and techpack 6 to 12 weeks, and prototype review another 6 to 10 weeks.

What software does ACTE.5 use for watch design?

ACTE.5 works primarily in SolidWorks and Rhino 3D for CAD development, and the full Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign) for 2D design, techpacks, and brand materials.

Does ACTE.5 work with independent and emerging watch brands?

Yes. ACTE.5 partners with independent watchmakers, emerging premium brands, and founders launching their first or second reference.

Does ACTE.5 design products beyond watches?

While watches are the core of our studio, ACTE.5 extends into adjacent product design when a brand's universe requires it — eyewear, accessories, small leather goods, and branded objects.

How is a watch design project priced?

Every project is scoped individually based on deliverables, complexity, and timeline. ACTE.5 works either on a per-project basis or through retainer agreements for ongoing collaborations. We provide a detailed proposal after an initial briefing call — no commitment required.

Does ACTE.5 have experience with Swiss watchmaking?

Yes. Rodolphe trained in Switzerland within the watch design industry and has designed collections using Swiss-made calibers — Sellita SW200, SW300, and ETA movements. His experience includes projects with Swiss assembly processes, ensuring every design meets the standards expected of Swiss-made timepieces.

Accessories Collection Design & Creative Direction | ACTE.5 – Watch Design Studio

Two material worlds, one DNA

Two material universes coexist within the collection: full black vegetable-tanned leather and printed BIO PU canvas carrying the brand monogram. Same hardware, same lining, two expressions of the same brand DNA — a strategy spanning price tiers while preserving a unified design language across every reference.

For Saboteur, a brand with a strong identity — dark, urban, and unbound — this project extended the brand universe beyond its core into a full accessories line: bags, wallets, belts, and lifestyle objects. From creative direction to product development and launch, the collection was developed end to end.

For Saboteur, a brand with a strong identity — dark, urban, and unbound — this project extended the brand universe beyond its core into a full accessories line composed of 31 items: bags, wallets, belts, and lifestyle objects. From creative direction to product development and launch, the collection was developed end to end.

A signature closure system

The collection is built around a signature closure system inspired by airplane seatbelts, developed exclusively for the brand and used as a recurring design element across the entire line. This distinctive hardware anchors the collection's identity and ties every piece — from bags to belts — into a coherent product family.

A signature closure system

The collection is built around a signature closure system inspired by airplane seatbelts, developed exclusively for the brand and used as a recurring design element across the entire line. This distinctive hardware anchors the collection's identity and ties every piece — from bags to belts — into a coherent product family.

Two material worlds, one DNA

Two material universes coexist within the collection: full black vegetable-tanned leather and printed BIO PU canvas carrying the brand monogram. Same hardware, same lining, two expressions of the same brand DNA — a strategy spanning price tiers while preserving a unified design language across every reference.

Accessories Collection:
Design & Creative Direction