Nestled in the heart of London, Camden has long been an iconic borough known for its vibrant charm and eclectic atmosphere.
However, this picturesque corner of the city has a rich history that dates back centuries, transforming from an industrial hub to a thriving cultural mecca. Camden’s origins can be traced back to the 18th century when it was primarily an industrial area.
The development of the Regent’s Canal in the early 19th century played a pivotal role in shaping Camden’s future. This waterway facilitated trade and transportation, attracting industries such as manufacturing, warehousing, and markets. Additionally, the canal brought prosperity to the area by connecting it with major ports across England. As Camden continued to grow industrially throughout the 19th century, its architectural landscape evolved accordingly.
Victorian warehouses and factories sprung up along the canal banks, leaving behind an indelible imprint on Camden’s aesthetic appeal that can still be admired today. However, it was during the late 20th century that Camden underwent a significant transformation. The decline of traditional industries led to a period of economic downturn in the area. Yet, this challenging phase paved the way for something extraordinary – a cultural revolution that would put Camden on the map as one of London’s most vibrant destinations.
Influenced by countercultural movements such as punk rock and hippie subcultures that emerged in London during this time, Camden became an epicentre for alternative music and youth culture. Its gritty streets became home to iconic music venues like The Roundhouse and Electric Ballroom, where legendary bands like The Clash and Nirvana left their mark on British music history. The unique blend of bohemian lifestyle and artistic expression attracted creative individuals from all walks of life – artists, musicians, writers – all seeking inspiration within Camden’s diverse community.
Street markets like Camden Lock Market emerged as vibrant hubs, offering a platform for independent designers, artists, and craftsmen to showcase their work. Today, Camden stands as a testament to its rich past and vibrant present. Its industrial heritage is beautifully juxtaposed with its thriving arts scene and diverse cultural offerings.
Unsurprising then, that Camden is the birthplace of a watch company that offers timepieces which seamlessly blend vintage aesthetics with contemporary design. The Camden Watch Company, founded in 2014 by Anneke Short and Jerome Robert, is a British independent watch brand inspired by the rich heritage of its namesake neighbourhood in London.
Each watch is meticulously handcrafted using high-quality materials sourced from reliable suppliers. The brand’s commitment to quality extends beyond their products; they also prioritize ethical production practices and sustainability. Embracing individuality and self-expression, the Camden Watch Company creates timepieces that reflect the spirit of their community while appealing to those with an appreciation for timeless style.
I have a penchant for watches, having collected a few over the last couple of years I am always interested in smaller brands that offer something a little different to the big hitters. We haven’t always (or ever!) got a spare few thousand pounds for a watch so the fact there are affordable brands crafting beautiful timepieces right here in the UK is music to my ears.
I have been wearing the No.24 Camden Watch (named after bus route 24 which is London’s oldest unchanged bus route and runs through Camden Town), in steel and PVD rose gold plate – and I love it!
The watch is fairly slight in size at 27mm and I have quite large wrists so I was concerned it wouldn’t really suit me, however, it wears larger on the wrist and certainly offers an opulent presence, the blush pink gold and grey colourway is very chic (It does come in a variety of other colours too). A time-only watch, the dial is simple yet sophisticated and comprises an hour marker chapter ring, subtle pencil hands and a central seconds needle hand – all in rose gold, the colour blocking is a really nice detail. The dial is completed by a Camden Watch Company signature at 12 o’clock and is encapsulated underneath mineral crystal. The caseback displays the company crest and reference details as you’d expect.
Paired with a beautiful, textured grey leather pin buckle strap with matching stitch, the furniture of course is in rose gold with a very subtle company logo on the buckle, such attention to detail is really beautiful and says a lot about the company – this watch is a steal at just 99GBP, yet it wears like a million dollars! I have worn it every day since I received it and even on holiday as it has a 50m water-resistant feature! The watch-loving world really ought to stop being so uppity about quartz watches, they were a revolution of accuracy and affordability at the time of their creation, qualities which are more than a little desirable by today’s standards too!
My favourite feature of the watch is the sunburst dial without a doubt, it’s a beautiful piece of wrist candy that I will continue to wear for years to come and at that price, I can treat myself to a couple more, and I probably will! Check out the full collection here, there are plenty of styles and sizes to go at, treat yourself to something beautiful. It won’t break the bank and you’ll have a cracking watch to show for it, for years to come.