A Unique Path from Art to Horology
Born in Busan in 1990, Minhoon Yoo began his creative journey in the world of fine arts. After moving to Seoul, he studied metal art and design at Hongik University, where he graduated with a BFA in 2016. Initially focused on sculptural furniture, Yoo’s direction shifted dramatically after watching a documentary on master watchmakers like Philippe Dufour. This sparked his passion for horology as a new form of artistic expression.
The Carved Piece – A Watch Like No Other
In 2020, Yoo founded his atelier in Seoul and began working on his debut timepiece, The Carved Piece. The watch features a freehand-carved silver dial, uniquely marked by hand-cut, irregular indices. It reflects his background in fine art and his desire to avoid the rigid perfectionism common in modern watchmaking. Subtle details—like a swallowtail hinge inspired by traditional Korean furniture—add cultural depth and individuality to each piece.
Powered by a reworked ETA/Peseux 7001 movement, The Carved Piece showcases Yoo’s commitment to hand-finishing. He re-machines the movement’s components himself, crafting bridges and polishing edges using classic techniques like anglage. Every detail reflects hours of dedicated craftsmanship and a highly personal aesthetic.
Art, Ambiguity, and Philosophy
Yoo’s approach to watchmaking embraces imperfection and interpretation. Influenced by Nam June Paik’s ideas about ambiguity, Yoo encourages viewers to see meaning in the abstract shapes and textures of his dials. His work blurs the line between mechanical precision and emotional expression, bringing a soulful dimension to horology.
Despite having no formal training in watchmaking, Yoo is entirely self-taught, learning through books, videos, and hands-on experimentation. This autodidactic approach gives his work a fresh and independent voice in a field often dominated by tradition.
Global Recognition and Growing Demand
Since its debut, The Carved Piece has received global attention from collectors and media alike. Yoo is now recognized as one of the rising stars of independent watchmaking, and his work has been featured in major international publications. With demand growing worldwide—from the U.S. to Singapore—his watches are quickly becoming sought-after pieces for collectors who value craftsmanship and originality.
Personal Thoughts
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 The 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.
Authentic Portraits of Minhoon Yoo
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. My photo editor at the New York Times was pleased with my portraits.
You can read the story on the NYT website and contact me for licensing.