Not A Carbon Copy: Introducing The Apiar Carbon1.0 OG Sports Watch

Apiar launches its first sports watch, the Carbon1.0 OG. Utilizing a novel construction process known as Composite-Based Additive Manufacturing (CBAM), the UK-based brand introduces a fresh approach to carbon-composite watchmaking. The watch features a 40.5mm carbon-fiber outer case surrounding a 38mm Grade 23 titanium core. This hybrid structure allows Apiar to pursue ambitious openworked forms while maintaining the strength and rigidity expected of a modern sports watch.

Power comes from the automatic Swiss-made La Joux-Perret G101 caliber with its impressive 68-hour power reserve. Combined with the unconventional case architecture, the movement provides a reliable foundation for one of the year’s more intriguing independent releases.

Apiar is a British watch brand built around expertise in industrial additive manufacturing. Rather than treating 3D printing as a marketing exercise, the company has sought practical applications for advanced manufacturing techniques within watchmaking. Looking to create a lightweight sports watch, carbon fiber quickly emerged as the ideal material. The challenge was finding a production method that could unlock its full potential.

That search led co-founder Matt Oosthuizen to Composite-Based Additive Manufacturing. During his time as an alumnus presenting at the University of Warwick, Oosthuizen was introduced to CBAM technology and began exploring its potential applications in watchmaking.

Apiar Carbon1.0 OG

The carbon-composite outer case begins life as a series of ultra-thin carbon-fiber sheets built up using an inkjet-based process. A bonding agent is deposited between layers before the structure is infused with PEEK powder. Under heat and pressure, the polymer melts, fusing the material into a rigid composite structure.

The result is a lightweight case with impressive strength characteristics and minimal material waste. Because the process avoids traditional molds and machining operations, it also enables more experimental forms that would be difficult or prohibitively expensive to produce with conventional manufacturing methods. A 12-hour vibro-smoothing treatment then refines the case, producing a matte finish while eliminating any rough edges that could affect comfort on the wrist.

Rather than hiding the layered construction, Apiar embraces it. The visible striations highlight the manufacturing process and reinforce the watch’s industrial character. Openworked case sides reveal the Grade 23 titanium (Ti-6Al-4V ELI) core beneath, providing an interesting contrast between the two materials.

Apiar produces the titanium inner structure using Laser Powder Bed Fusion (L-PBF). Beyond providing rigidity, the inner case incorporates the 12 hour markers directly into its architecture. This creates a framework around the dial while emphasizing the layered construction that defines the watch.

The dial follows the same theme. CNC-machined from aluminum and finished with a three-dimensional embossed pattern, it draws inspiration from both generative design principles and the structure of carbon fiber itself. A black anodized finish visually ties the dial to the surrounding case while enhancing durability.

Specs and pricing

The sandblasted hands complement the technical aesthetic and feature light blue Super-LumiNova for low-light visibility. Powering everything is the familiar La Joux-Perret G101, which has become a popular choice among independent brands thanks to its reliability and healthy power reserve.

Apiar also deserves some credit for the domestic manufacturing involved. The company states that approximately 75% of each watch is currently produced in the UK, with ambitions to increase that figure further. For many British watchmakers, the movement remains the biggest obstacle to achieving full domestic production, a challenge that brands such as Bremont and Christopher Ward continue to navigate.

On the wrist, the Carbon1.0 OG feels exceptionally light. The carbon-composite construction isn’t simply a talking point — it fundamentally shapes the wearing experience. If I have one criticism, it’s the dial layout. I’d like to see future iterations feature more prominent indexes and additional lume applications to support the watch’s sporty character better.

The sapphire crystal features an antireflective coating and a pad-printed Apiar logo and “Made in the UK” on the underside.

Buyers can choose between two packages. The Carbon1.0 OG “Additive Upgrade” includes a 20/18mm Alcantara strap made by The Strap Tailor and a 3D-printed titanium clasp. The package also includes a 3D-printed nylon PA12 travel case and costs US$2,080 / £1,820.

The standard version comes fitted with a nylon strap, also produced by The Strap Tailor, and includes a watch roll. Pricing starts at US$1,800 / £1,620.

Both versions are available to order until the end of October 2026, with deliveries expected approximately four months from purchase.

Final thoughts

For enthusiasts interested in emerging manufacturing techniques, the Carbon1.0 OG offers something genuinely different. Many brands use carbon fiber as a material choice. Apiar is among the few exploring entirely new ways to manufacture it. You can learn more on the brand’s website here.

Let us know what you think of the Apiar Carbon1.0 OG in the comments below.