J.S. Elliot Turns the Page with the Suave Theory Two

Just a couple of months ago we introduced you to J.S. Elliott, a very young man from the US with South Korean roots who had then just released and sold out his first watch. Called the Theory One, and hinting at a follow-up in the interview, Elliott Kim made quite the impression with his thoughtful and elegant debut piece. That follow-up is now a reality, in the form of the aptly named Theory Two. It relies on the same overall architecture yet showcases a matured sense of elegance, taking the appeal of the Theory One to new heights. Time to take a closer look!

When Jin-Seo Elliott Kim released the Theory One, he was just 17 years old, making him a lot younger than the vast majority of watchmakers. Sure, we’ve covered talented youngsters before, but rarely this young. Regardless, it’s obvious this young man has a keen eye for style and knows how to turn that into an attractive watch. Compact dimensions, with original details and handsome dial designs, are elements that deserve paying attention to what is done now, but also what might come further down the line.

The Theory Two takes off where the Theory One left us back in February of this year. The case design is similar, with a diameter of 39mm and a height of 10.9mm. That makes the Theory Two a rather ‘on the money’ watch in terms of dimensions. The case still features openworked lugs, which might become a signature styling element for Kim. The finishing is a mix of brushed and polished surfaces, and a sapphire crystal protects both the dial and the movement. Just like the Theory One, the crown on the Theory Two is subtly recessed in the caseband, upping the charm of the watch’s profile.

Where the dial of the Theory One impressed with its restraint design and rich blue hue, the Theory Two elevates that even more thanks to the three-dimensional grooved pattern radiating from the small second’s display. It adds a very attractive lustre to the watch, highlighted by faceted applied markers and openworked hour and minute hands. Speaking of which, these now have an arrow-tip shape instead of the pine-tree shape of the Theory Two’s hands, showing how Elliott’s design has evolved beyond just the dial decoration.

Beating away under the sapphire crystal caseback is a Sellita SW261-1, which is the small seconds equivalent to the SW200-series automatic. It ticks at a rate of 28,800vph and delivers a power reserve of 41 hours. Elliott has opted, wisely, for a top-grade spec of the SW261-1, meaning it’s finished with blued screws, perlage and rhodium plating. The central rotor is blued to tie in with the dial, adding to the overall appeal of the watch.

The Theory Two is fitted to a handmade grey Nubuck leather strap with a steel pin buckle. It’s not limited by number but made to order only, with a lead time of three months. Now, going over all the specs for this devilishly handsome Theory Two, one thing becomes very clear. It seems J.S. Elliott has put together a monstrously good value-for-money package. Considering the attention to detail, despite not always reinventing the wheel, the price of USD 1,300 feels like a steal! Alternatives, in terms of specifications, often cost considerably more, so kudos to this very young watchmaker!

For more information and to place an order, please visit JS-Elliott.com.