The Enclosure
I intended to send out the official Origin Look Book this week.
I wanted to show off the final form. But the reality of a one-man workshop is that sometimes, machining setbacks eat into the schedule. The Look Book is coming, but the metal dictates the timeline.
Instead, today we talk about The Enclosure.
Packaging Engineering
In the boutique watch world, the box is often an afterthought. Usually a generic "leather" or wood cube sourced from a catalog with a logo stamped on top. It feels disposable because it is.
I wanted an enclosure that was unique to AW Labs, consistent with the Horological Brutalism aesthetic, and didn't require tying up thousands of dollars in inventory.
The Solution: Rapid Manufacturing
Leveraging services like SendCutSend, I used laser cutting and precision bending to create a custom aluminum enclosure for Origin. It integrates hinges, the holder and the handle all into one design.
It was a quick sprint, but the result is something that feels permanent rather than disposable.
Open Source Hardware
The response to the prototype enclosure on social media has been surprising. Many of you asked if you could buy one or use the design for your own projects.
In alignment with my goal of Transparency, I have decided that once Origin launch is complete, I will be releasing the CAD files for the enclosure.
If you have a project that needs a home, you'll be able to take my files, send them to a laser cutter, and build it yourself.
Launch Reminder
The machine is still running, and we are closing in on the date.
- Early Access (Allocation List): Friday, February 20th.
- General Public: Saturday, February 21st.
Mike Armstrong
Founder, AW Labs