This past weekend, my camera and I had the chance to step into the world of horology at the Toronto Timepiece Show - a gathering that brought collectors, creators, and brands together under one roof.

For me, it wasn’t just about seeing the watches (though that was a highlight in its own right); it was about capturing the essence of the event. Between the buzz of conversation, the stunning brand displays and the first-ever Timepiece World Awards, Toronto felt like the heartbeat of the watch world.

Due to some scheduling challenges, I was only able to attend Creator’s Night, which kicks off the show and welcomes content creators and media to enjoy a more intimate experience with the brands prior to the massive crowds descending upon the beautiful Meridian Arts Centre throughout the rest of the weekend.

Despite my limited availability, I feel so fortunate to have met so many passionate people. Folks from Isotope, Oris, Geo Watches, Redwood Watches, Selten, Atelier Wen, and Marathon Watch Company, as well as countless influencers from across the watch industry.

Photographing watches is one thing, but getting to connect with the people behind them, hearing their stories and inspirations, gave every shot I took more meaning.

I want to sincerely thank the founder of the show, Jason Hutton and watch content creator Bob Allaby for the invite and opportunity to capture some of these moments.

*Fuji X-H1 + Fuji XF16mm F1.4 R WR - 1/120 | f/4 | ISO 800*

*Fuji X-H1 + Fuji XF16mm F1.4 R WR - 1/210 | f/2 | ISO 800*

*Fuji X-H1 + Fuji XF16mm F1.4 R WR - 1/125 | f/2.5 | ISO 800*

*Fuji X-H1 + Fuji XF55-200mm F3.5-4.8 R LM OIS - 1/40 | f/6.4 | ISO 3200*

*Fuji X-H1 + Fuji XF16mm F1.4 R WR - 1/25 | f/3.2 | ISO 800*

*Fuji X-H1 + Fuji XF55-200mm F3.5-4.8 R LM OIS - 1/45 | f/6.4 | ISO 3200*

*Fuji X-H1 + Fuji XF16mm F1.4 R WR - 1/120 | f/1.8 | ISO 800*

*Fuji X-H1 + Fuji XF55-200mm F3.5-4.8 R LM OIS - 1/20 | f/11 | ISO 3200*

Isotope Earns the Double

I recently had the pleasure of doing some freelance work with Isotope Watches during their OVNI launch (if you haven’t seen this stunner, check it out!) I was thrilled to hear that one of my favourite brands took home two Timepiece World Awards.

Their Mercury Shadow took home the award for Best Time Only Watch, proving that there’s real beauty and artistry in simplicity.

Even more impressively, the Moonshot Terra Maris was voted People’s Choice Award winner by show attendees - including collectors and enthusiasts like myself.

To see an independent brand win recognition from both a professional jury and the community was inspiring. It really drove home the fact that Isotope is making watches that resonate on every level. A huge congratulations to Jose, Marc and the rest of the team on this well-earned achievement!

*Fuji X-H1 + Fuji XF55-200mm F3.5-4.8 R LM OIS - 1/30 | f/9 | ISO 3200*

*Fuji X-H1 + Fuji XF55-200mm F3.5-4.8 R LM OIS - 1/80 | f/5.6 | ISO 1600*

A Celebration of Independent Watchmaking

What struck me most about the weekend was how much energy and excitement there is around independent brands. Whether it was the bold design language of Atelier Wen, the rugged personality of Redwood, or the heritage pride of Marathon, each brand brought something special to the table.

In every conversation I had with the brands themselves, it didn’t take very long to feel the passion they have for craftsmanship, storytelling and innovation.

While many across the watch community stay in their comfort zone with the big names, an experience like this reminded me just how important independent and micro brands are in the watch ecosystem. It’s inspiring to see that the love of watchmaking is alive and well across the globe.

*Fuji X-H1 + Fuji XF55-200mm F3.5-4.8 R LM OIS - 1/50 | f/11 | ISO 3200*

*Fuji X-H1 + Fuji XF55-200mm F3.5-4.8 R LM OIS - 1/13 | f/14 | ISO 3200*

*Fuji X-H1 + Fuji XF55-200mm F3.5-4.8 R LM OIS - 1/15 | f/9 | ISO 3200*

*Fuji X-H1 + Fuji XF55-200mm F3.5-4.8 R LM OIS - 1/80 | f/4 | ISO 2000*

*Fuji X-H1 + Fuji XF55-200mm F3.5-4.8 R LM OIS - 1/100 | f/4.5 | ISO 1250*

*Fuji X-H1 + Fuji XF55-200mm F3.5-4.8 R LM OIS - 1/20 | f/9 | ISO 3200*

*Fuji X-H1 + Fuji XF55-200mm F3.5-4.8 R LM OIS - 1/40 | f/8 | ISO 3200*

*Fuji X-H1 + Fuji XF55-200mm F3.5-4.8 R LM OIS - 1/180 | f/4.5 | ISO 800*

Closing Time

The Toronto Timepiece Show wasn’t just about watches - it was mostly about people. Meeting fellow creatives, swapping stories, and getting to know the makers behind the dials reminded me why this hobby is so rewarding.

Congratulations again to Jason on bringing this special community together in such a meaningful way and to Isotope for their incredible double victory. If this is how the first Timepiece World Awards played out, I can’t wait to see what next year brings.

The Perfect Exposure: Watches, Community, and Isotope’s Big Moment

Redrum & Rocky Peaks: The Haunting Beauty of Estes Park