When we set out to create our new limited edition Professional Chronograph, we knew the challenge wouldn’t simply be design.
At Helicon, design, detail and colour are part of our DNA. But this project asked something more of us.
The Mustard Professional brief demanded that we push further — not just in aesthetics, not just in quality — but in where and how we produce.
From the very beginning, we made a conscious decision to move as much of the production process as possible to the United Kingdom.
And that includes the collector packaging your Chronograph will arrive in.
Why Not Just Buy a Standard Watch Box?
It would have been easy to source an off-the-shelf solution from a large packaging manufacturer — as most brands do.
But that wouldn’t have fulfilled the brief.
Innovation is part of Helicon’s direction.
And innovation requires effort.
It has taken time — more time than a ready-made solution ever would — but what we’ve created feels entirely right for this watch.
Let us introduce you to the Helicon Chronograph Collector Packaging.
Crafted from British Heritage
The outer packaging is a two-piece presentation box crafted using premium card from G. F Smith — a British company founded in 1855 and long respected by artists, designers and collectible book publishers.
Each box is:
• Hand-folded by a skilled craftsperson in Brighton
• Constructed without harmful glues or tape
• Foiled by hand by a third-generation print finishing specialist
• Finished with our “space shuttle spec” design
Each lid has been colour-matched to its corresponding watch variant — just 75 pieces per colour — making every box as collectible as the timepiece inside.
But we didn’t stop there.
What’s Inside Matters Even More
We wanted the presentation inside the box to feel engineered — not simply padded.
Working with a family business in Rochester, Kent, we developed our own bespoke insert system designed specifically for the Chronograph.
And this is where it gets interesting.
The insert is formed from three layers of nitrogen-blown foam, created using inert gas. Unlike chemically blown foam, this material will not tarnish metals — ensuring long-term protection for your watch.
The structure consists of:
• A high-density base layer securing the watch and holder
• A precision-cut top layer, stamped with the Helicon brand
• Dual-density construction for stability and protection
And yes — the foam itself was manufactured for us in Scotland using a centrifuge process. A small but fitting link to the aerospace inspiration behind the Chronograph.
More Than Packaging
This project allowed us to collaborate with:
• A heritage British paper maker
• A Brighton craftsperson
• A third-generation print finisher
• A Kent-based family engineering business
• A specialist Scottish materials manufacturer
Five British businesses — all contributing to one watch.
For us, that matters.
The box alone represents innovation, collaboration and a commitment to building something meaningful here at home.
And we can assure you…
This is just the beginning
As always, Danielle and I are incredibly grateful for your support. It’s only because of you that we’re able to do what we love — and push Helicon forward in the way we believe it should go.
The Mustard Professional Chronograph deliveries are very close now. We cannot wait for you to experience every detail.