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The contrast between precision watchmaking and raw mineral textures highlights the balance of engineering and nature.
Jul 27th, 2025
After I had "created" the shot in my mind, I set up my studio setting. What I used - Fujifilm X-H2 camera, Fujifilm 80mm macro lens, Aputure LED 200W light, Lee white diffusion, white foam-cardboard reflectors, IKEA black glossy glass, some rocks, table, tripod, "helping hands" clamps, Sirui C-stand, light stands (for diffusion sheet).
I bought these rocks from a local hardware store (these are for sauna).
My idea was to have the watch "flying" or hovering above the background, creating a sense of lightness and tension. For the base, I chose a black glossy glass surface because it reflects just enough of the scene to add depth without becoming distracting. The rocks were selected to contrast with the smooth surfaces of the case and strap, adding a rugged, almost raw feeling to the composition.
To hold the watch in this position, I had several options in mind, but most of them didn't allow the strap to be shaped the way I wanted. Since I wanted the strap to be slightly turned and dynamic rather than straight and flat, I ended up using "helping hands" (a soldering tool with adjustable clamps). This gave me precise control over the strap position and made it possible to fine-tune the angles until everything looked natural. I also experimented with a few shots where the straps were straight, but the turned version felt more alive and visually interesting.
The watch itself is held from the rear using Rodico, a sticky gum-like adhesive often used in watchmaking. This prevents the watch from slipping while allowing small adjustments during the shoot. One of the reasons I like using Rodico is that it leaves no residue when removed, which is especially important when working with polished surfaces. It is, however, very sticky, so careful handling is required.
Lighting was adjusted gradually to minimize reflections from the glass and metal while still preserving the shine and texture of the case and dial. This required small changes to both light position and camera angle, as even minor shifts had a noticeable impact on reflections.
I also tried this same scene with two more watches, slightly changing strap positions and angles each time to see how different case shapes and dial colors interacted with the rocks and reflections. This helped me evaluate which elements worked best for this floating effect. And tried different positions on rocks on the background.
I used focus-stacking technique to get the best details from the watch. Helicon Focus application to stitch the image. Minimal post-processing - just basic color correction and dust removal. I don't retouch vintage watches.
