Photos by @junmichaelpark @seoulphotographer for @nytimes | I photographed @minhoon_yoo, an independent South Korean watchmaker for a profile in the NYT. Mr. Yoo, who says his interest lies in “details”, has been called a rising star by Hodinkee, an influential online resource for both modern and vintage wristwatch enthusiasts.

Haute horology, as I learned during my visit to Mr. Yoo’s studio, is a world of aficionados who are willing to spend time and money on what they are passionate about. Since Mr. Yoo unveiled his first creation – a wristwatch called ‘Carved Piece’ – in February, nine clients have come forward to support his artistic vision, despite Mr. Yoo’s newcomer status and the watch’s hefty price tag of $18,000.

I wanted to portray Mr. Yoo as a nonchalant and audacious young artist who defies and challenges the stereotype of the suited, grizzled watchmaker serving the high class.

Many thanks to Jessie Schwartz for this fun assignment. You can read the story on the NYT website and see more photos for licensing.

(Copyediting by Marlies Gabriele Prinzl)