Sci-fi inspired smartwatch collection

About
Drawing inspiration from the iconic sci-fi movies Blade Runner, Blade Runner 2049, and Prometheus, each watch design carries a certain uniqueness in aesthetic and theme, contrasting futurism with dystopian elements. By incorporating intricate patterns, atmospheric color palettes, and sleek typography, advanced technological and otherworldly settings are accomplished. In remixing these cinematic universes' visual languages through an artistic vision, the goal was to create a collection that resonated with science fiction fans and innovative design.
Responsibilities
Research, UI Design, Motion Design, Front-end
Tools
Sketch, Ps, Ai, Ae, Facer Creator
Period: 2019
Challenge
My passion for watches stems from their intricate craftsmanship and precision in timekeeping. Inspired by dystopian worlds, I wanted to blend their artistic elements with my own to create a unique design narrative.
Solution
I invested in a TicWatch E Smartwatch and explored Facer.io design and publishing capabilities to bring my vision to life. A platform that enabled me to harness their tools to create custom watch faces, resulting in distinctive designs.
Process

Behind the scenes: A blend of science and society

The worlds portrayed in these dystopian movies were crafted through scientific and social research, where I discovered a wealth of incredible resources.

1


Emphatise

  • Understand the world and team's design processes
  • Reference and mood board
2


Conceptualize

  • Definition of key characters
  • Sketches of potential design adaptation
3


Design

  • UI Assets
  • Animations
  • Mockups
  • Implementation

1. Empathise

Dived into research about the movie's creative processes.

Reference
As a passionate admirer of Ridley Scott's artistry in the Alien and Blade Runner franchises, I delved into his creative process of world-building. I explored his journey from initial sketches and conceptual ideas to the final production stages, gaining insight into how he crafts immersive cinematic experiences.
Mood board
The book The Art and Soul of Blade Runner 2049 offers an in-depth look into director Denis Villeneuve’s creative process, exploring how he crafted iconic characters and cutting-edge technology. It highlights the film's contributions to the Blade Runner legacy, showcasing the meticulous detail and vision that went into creating its immersive world.
Main aspects and discoveries
I analyzed various scenes from the films, focusing on key characters and scenarios that effectively illustrate the plot. This helped me understand the narrative's strong points and the visual storytelling techniques employed throughout.
  • The dark substance the Engineers designed in “Prometheus”
  • K’s Peugeot-branded spinner and its interior systems in “Blade Runner 2049”
  • The uninhabitable Las Vegas under harmful radiation in “Blade Runner 2049”

2. Conceptualise

Defined key characters and sketched potential adaptations.

Writing My Narrative
I crafted stories for each watch to capture the nuances and direct connections to the films. This process helped me find meaningful references and deepen my understanding of how each design relates to the cinematic themes and characters.
Technical Specifications
Each element represented a specific function—hour, minutes, seconds, date, battery level, steps, and weather—akin to a pocket version of key characters from the films I defined earlier. This approach allowed me to create a meaningful connection between the watch designs and the personalities they embody.

3. Design

I animated and coded UI assets by meticulously layering math equations, tags, and variables, akin to assembling the intricate gears of a mechanical watch.

Solar
Solar is a HUD interface designed to monitor activities in the solar system following a catastrophic sun explosion in 2051. This event introduced advanced technologies that transformed life for humanity.
Download
+2.1k downloads
Available for Google WearOS and Samsung Tyzen
Notable User Reviews
"another great one 👍"
"very cool. what is the small number under the month?"
Pilot 2049
Inspired by the HUD of K's spinner from Blade Runner 2049, this interface envisions a tracking map that enhances navigation and data visualization.
Download
+1.4k downloads
Available for Google WearOS and Samsung Tyzen
Notable User Reviews
"the stunning simplicity is such and incredible view. amazing craftsmanship, thanks ! 💎 👑 💎"
"Nice and clean job on the 2049. It looks good in the dark. Thx!"
Pilot 2050
This represents the second generation of spaceship navigation designed for the new Pilot 2050, enhancing efficiency and functionality for futuristic space travel.
Download
+900 downloads
Available for Google WearOS and Samsung Tyzen
Notable User Reviews
"AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER: "You're entering Los Angeles Airport Restricted Air Space. Confirm your identity" PILOT 1: "Transport S-14-4-XD confirmed." I want to give you a big hug for making a watch face that visually references seawall from BR2049!"
"This is dope. Thank you sir. This is exactly what I was looking for when I searched "spaceship" lol"
LV-223
Inspired by the fictional planet LV-223 from Prometheus, this concept draws on the "black substance" created by the Engineers, symbolizing both the potential for creation and destruction of humanity.
Download
+400 downloads
Available for Google WearOS and Samsung Tyzen
Notable User Reviews
"very cool, well done!"

Design highlights
  • I created animations in After Effects, exporting them frame by frame for use as UI assets, and then coded each animation individually.
  • I designed HUD elements with smartwatch behaviors and functionalities in mind, incorporating layers of information and interactive elements for a seamless user experience.
  • Standby mode designed to optimize battery life efficiently.

Conclusion

Each watch face was meticulously crafted to meet all specifications and user expectations for optimal functionality.

4 watches published
Creative and enthusiastic feedback
What did I learn?
  • Sharing my artwork and receiving feedback from users was invaluable in gauging my art direction.
  • Facer.io documentation and community posts significantly aided my development process.
  • My design process is versatile, allowing me to achieve desired outcomes across various projects.

Next up

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