Given the numerous options in my collection, whenever I select a watch for the day, I want to feel excited about it, and to be able to explain why it is special. The Sō Labs Layer 1 is special enough that when I am about to embark upon a low-key day, I am often eager to wear it. A plastic watch with a quartz movement, this is essentially a gourmet Swatch, with added heaps of originality.

As the name implies, the Sō Labs Layer 1 is all about layers. Harking back to the “mystery dial” watches from decades past, a plastic layer with a triangular halftoned gradient forms the hour hand, a second layer containing a wide semi-translucent paddle forms the minute hand, and a small disc indicates that seconds are ticking by. There are cut-outs in portions of the dial that make it possible to see parts of the movement. To add to the fun, several of the colorways, such as the Layer 1.4 Abalone Steel that I own, have fully-lumed dials, making them fun to see glow in the dark.

 

The Layer 1 collection comes in five different colorways, each inspired by the funky colors and design language of the late 1980s and early 1990s. Neon is the rule of the day, as each watch combines multiple vibrant colors. The advertising for the collection matches, in that it often features action figures from the era – Bart Simpson, Slimer, and even The Noid. These action figures remind us of the joy that plastic once brought to our lives, and still can today.

The watch itself is thoughtfully executed. Each comes in a petri dish shaped package, accompanied by a suede strap with quick release spring bars. The company has produced 500 specimens of each colorway, and each is individually numbered. The team behind the watch clearly had the skills necessary to execute on a thoughtful product. The watch is a byproduct of connections formed at RedBar Chicago. Rick Cosgrove, a creative director with a background in architecture and design met Andrew Perez of Astor+Banks at a RedBar meeting, and the two joined forces to bring this set of watches to fruition.

The Sō Labs Layer 1 series is probably a bit too wild for everyday wear for many people, but given the pricing that has been achieved, it does not have to be. This is a lightweight treat for people looking for something a bit different to wear from time to time. Through great contemplation and creativity, Andrew and Rick have brought to market a truly unique line of watches that is well-executed and priced below $200. Whenever I am about to embark upon a day on which I can wear my Layer 1, I know it is going to be a fun one.