Mechanical Watch Box Conversion – One of One
This piece began its life as a vintage watch display box — elegant, understated, and featuring a glass viewing lid. Rather than conceal the mechanism as I often do, I chose to honor the transparency of the original design and build directly into it.
What now resides inside is a fully integrated mechanical puzzle system, constructed from hardwood components and fitted precisely within the existing architecture of the box. Gears, sliders, false leads, and controlled movements interact in a layered sequence that requires observation, patience, and discernment.
Unlike many puzzle boxes where the reveal comes only after access is granted, this piece invites study from the outset. The solver can see the landscape of parts — but visibility does not equal understanding. The true challenge lies in distinguishing what moves from what merely appears to, and discovering the correct order of operations hidden within plain sight.
This is a one-of-one build. No duplicates exist, and none will be made. It represents a distinct moment in my design evolution — the deliberate decision to make the internal world visible while preserving the mystery of function.
For collectors of fine mechanical puzzles, this piece offers both aesthetic presence and intellectual engagement. It stands equally as a display object and as a deeply satisfying solve.
Dimensions: 4 3/4" wide x 13" long x 4" high
Full colour solution included.