Why British design still matters

Why British design still matters

At Helicon, we believe in more than just making watches.

We believe in making progress — in design, in storytelling, and in rebuilding something that Britain once excelled at: innovation through craftsmanship.

That’s why our newest watch, inspired by the visionary (but never built) British space shuttle Project MUSTARD, is not just a product — it’s a statement of intent.

MADE WITH PURPOSE, BUILT TO INSPIRE

The MUSTARD project watch will be our first model to go through a complete UK-based design, development, assembly and testing process:

🧪 Prototyping – in collaboration with our British horological partners.

🛠️ Assembly & Testing – performed by an Omega-certified British family watchmaker, one of the most advanced watch centres in the UK, with decades of horological experience

📦 Packaging – designed and handcrafted by a third-generation UK specialist whose work graces the shelves of some of the most prestigious British brands (including those with Royal Warrants)

This is a big leap forward for Helicon.

We’re a small British family company, but we’re proud to be growing — and investing where it matters.

✨ WHY IT’S WORTH DOING

For decades, British engineering punched far above its weight. From aviation to automotive, from Concorde to the Chronometer, we led with ideas, design, and sheer ingenuity.

We want to be part of that tradition — not just by telling stories inspired by British history, but by actively contributing to its future.

Yes, it would be cheaper to outsource everything.

Yes, it would be easier to go the marketing-heavy route.

But we believe in something else.

Great design. Honest pricing. And respect for craft.

Our goal is to make world-class watches that are:

  • Designed and assembled in Britain
  • Tested by experts
  • Built to last
  • And still affordable for the enthusiast and collector alike

🕰️ A LONG JOURNEY — BUT THE RIGHT ONE

We know this is a long-term commitment.

Rebuilding a domestic watchmaking pipeline takes time, care, and support, and we will continue to use the best components from around the world for our watches.

But we’re lucky — we’re not doing it alone.

We have you: our incredible community of Helicon owners, enthusiasts, and early supporters.

You’ve helped us build something small but meaningful, and now we’re asking you to help us build something even bigger.

📢 WE’LL INVEST IN DESIGN — NOT HYPE

You won’t find celebrity endorsements or over-the-top launch parties at Helicon.

Instead, we’re putting every penny into the things that count:

  • Smart, bold, original design
  • High-spec materials and components
  • Local partners who share our standards and values
  • Personal service, always from us — Jonathan and Danielle

The watch industry is full of noise.

We’re choosing to be the signal — and this project is the start of something bigger.

🌌 JOIN US AT THE BEGINNING

This is more than a watch launch. It’s the start of a new chapter — for Helicon and, we hope, for British independent watchmaking.

The MUSTARD Project Watch will be available for pre-order on Kickstarter starting July 1st, with a limited early backer offer as a thank-you for your support.

It’s one small watch… but one giant leap for Helicon.