Paulin Oh No Quartz Watch

When it comes to timepieces that blend creative flair with design heritage, the Paulin OH no Quartz Watch is one that truly stands out. A collaboration between the Glasgow-based Paulin Watch Company and San Jose type foundry OH no, this watch is a love letter to typography, creativity, and California’s rich design history. Priced at £450, this eye-catching timepiece showcases a playful, expressive aesthetic that’s perfect for those who appreciate bold design choices and a bit of whimsy on their wrist.

The OH no Modul was launched at the Wind Up Watch Fair in San Francisco, an apt setting given its connection to the Golden State’s iconic design influences. The watch’s dial draws inspiration from California’s design history, featuring a colour palette influenced by legendary design icons Sister Corita Kent and Saul Bass. The vivid, retro hues bring a dose of West Coast sunshine to your wrist, making the OH no Quartz as much an art piece as it is a timekeeper.

What makes the Paulin OH no Quartz particularly captivating is its expressive dial design. Moving away from the clean and uniform geometry of the original Modul watch, this collaboration features free-form bespoke numerals crafted by OH no. The interlocking layout is not only playful but also challenges traditional watch legibility—with bold emphasis on the 12, 3, 6, and 9, these numerals add a graphic edge to the dial, giving the watch a unique character. The design perfectly balances the bold and unconventional, resulting in a timepiece that never takes itself too seriously.

Powering the OH no Quartz is the dependable Swiss-made ETA 955.112 movement, renowned for its reliability and precision. Flip the watch over, and you’ll find an exhibition caseback that offers a glimpse of the intricate blue and gold design of the movement—a delightful detail that adds a touch of sophistication to an already charming watch. The case itself is a compact 35mm in diameter, ensuring that it looks great on almost any wrist size. At only 8.2mm thick and topped with a vintage-style Hesalite box-crystal, the OH no Quartz is comfortable to wear while also making a style statement with its distinctive crown.

This collaboration between Paulin and OH no is about more than just telling time; it’s about celebrating the artistry behind every element of the watch. The result is a beautifully crafted timepiece that embodies the essence of creativity, design, and individuality. The Paulin OH no Quartz Watch is perfect for those who want a watch that not only tells the time but also tells a story—a story of design passion, cultural heritage, and the enduring appeal of typography. It’s a watch that will have admirers saying, “Oh yes!” every time they see it.

Leo Davie