Inner workings

The brand 51 by Tianjin watch factory (or Seagull) was so named because of the link to international labor day (May 1st, 5/1). The design had to have some reference to labor; so the idea here is to show the movement mechanism that sits behind the functioning of the timepiece; you pull back the curtain and you see the work that goes on behind the scenes. Much the same effect as celebrating labor, and drawing attention to the effort and (often throughout history) plight of workers. In the past, people have given their lives to ensure that workers get fair pay and there are limitations to their exploitation. Normally exposed movements are used on luxury items to show the craft of the decorated dials, or precious metals. In this case the effect is painted onto a humble vintage dress watch.