In a landscape often dominated by tradition, the emergence of a brand that dares to reimagine the very fundamentals of watch design is a noteworthy event. Enter (A)LT | SYM, an innovative micro-watch brand founded by British professional product and industrial designer Phillip Plimmer. With over two decades of specialized expertise in watch design, Plimmer has launched a project that is as much a love letter to horology as it is a blueprint for its future.
Positioned as a conceptual and modular watch line, (A)LT | SYM—shorthand for "Alternative-Symmetry"—is built on a philosophy of pushing traditional boundaries. The brand explores asymmetrical and unconventional layouts, creating what it calls a "Chronograph with a Twist." Its defining characteristic is a distinctive disc-hour indicator that replaces traditional hands and sub-dials, establishing a unique and futuristic dial language that aims to resonate with modern collectors seeking statement pieces with visual depth and narrative.
A New Approach to Customization
The core innovation of ALTERNATIVE-SYMMETRY lies in its groundbreaking modular system. This approach moves far beyond simple strap changes, offering a level of personalization that is both profound and accessible. The timepiece is deconstructed into four key components: the MODULE (housing the movement and dial), the SURFACE (forming the case and lugs), the STRAP, and four functional TORX SCREWS.
This intelligent architecture allows owners to become co-creators. With just a few minutes and a simple tool, users can swap components, unlocking over 512 unique configurations from just four core watches. A cleverly located pin ensures perfect alignment when the SURFACE and MODULE are connected, while the strap's spring-bars act as a secondary safety lock. This system empowers enthusiasts to refresh their timepiece to match their style, occasion, or mood without requiring extensive horological knowledge.
Crafted with Conscience and Precision
Beyond its modular genius, (A)LT | SYM is a testament to sustainable and high-quality craftsmanship. Recycling is a core principle of its design process. Each module and bracelet is crafted from recycled stainless steel, and the straps utilize an array of eco-friendly materials including recycled PET bottles, bio-based natural corn, and vegan apple leather.
The brand doesn't compromise on technical specs or design detail. The collection boasts features like scratch-proof sapphire crystals with anti-reflective coatings, 100-meter water resistance, and a distinctive double screw-down crown. The signature graphical disk hour hand is complemented by multipurpose internal rotating bezels, enhancing both the aesthetic appeal and functionality of these modern timepieces.
The Inaugural Collection: Four Watches, Endless Possibilities
The launch collection features four distinct models, each serving as a platform for the brand's modular ecosystem:
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001 Everyday AUTO-[matic]: Powered by a Seiko NH35A automatic movement, this variant features an exhibition case-back and Graphical Super-LumiNova®.
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002 Stealth DIGI-[tal]: This model incorporates a digital LCD display (B13264) with a chronograph and alarm. Notably, its SURFACE is compatible with all MODULES, maximizing cross-model customization.
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003 Dress AUTO-[matic]: Featuring a skeletonized Miyota 8N24 automatic movement and a smoked sand exhibition case-back, this model offers a more refined, architectural aesthetic.
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004 Urban CHRO-[nograph]: Driven by a Miyota OS20 quartz chronograph movement, this watch adds a textured dial and a chrono minute counter disc under the hour disc.
