The Gears
of Time
A custom bike building world champion is redefining our relationship with time by setting aside the constant demand for immediacy in favor of individuality.
The nickname ‘Master Handyman’ might have begun in jest, but for Frédéric Bertrand, there is truth in his moniker.
For over two decades, the former motorcycle racer and race mechanic has been crafting motorcycles and cars largely on his own and from scratch—from designing and welding to painting and polishing—at Krugger, his home studio in Basse-Bodeux, Belgium.
Working solo on every stage of a project, especially when given carte blanche by many of his clients, allows Bertrand to maintain greater creative control over his artistic vision. “Less is more,” he says, explaining that he draws inspiration from the streamlined modern design of the 1930s. “I like to keep it simple and subtle.”
His labors of love have earned Bertrand honors six times at the AMD World Championship of Custom Bike Building, including two top prizes. With the rise of custom bike culture since the mid-20th century, diverse designs have continued to evolve.
“We see more of enjoying the ride and
Frédéric Bertrand, custom motorcycle builder
enjoying life with your motorcycle.”
The Case to Downshift
Bertrand’s process takes approximately nine months for a custom bike and up to four years for a car from start to finish.
“I use my hands and invest time and sweat into projects,” he explains his choice to largely forsake modern tools in favor of traditional techniques.
His focus on quality and experience over quantity and instant gratification reflects the wider cultural movement towards intentional deceleration—from the appreciation of slow fashion to the rise of meditation apps. The resurgence of analog cameras and film also reflects a deliberate slowing down to savor the moment. The process of film photography, which requires time and patience and limits exposures per roll, encourages users to appreciate the significance of each shot.
This quest for authenticity and tangibility echoes current trends that have seen revitalized interest in print books and vinyl. Both mediums have grown alongside their digital counterparts, proving that physical products are evolving as part of an integrated experience alongside e-books and music streaming.
The freedom in choosing mediums is akin to the shift from the traditional work-life balance concept, first introduced in the early 20th century, to work-life integration. By blurring the boundaries between ‘on’ and ‘off,’ this approach finds areas of synergy and continuity in one’s life, allowing individuals to seek fulfillment in both their personal and professional worlds.
A Streak of Independence
Analog mediums can deepen emotional connections due to their inherent sense of weight and authenticity.
It is this substantiality that inspired Citizen to design its Series 8 mechanical watches, incorporating, among other design choices, stainless steel with a coarse hairline finish rather than the proprietary Super Titanium material typically used in other Citizen models. The choice of stainless steel, with its weight, metallic luster, and strength, was deliberately made to impart a solid, sporty feel to the timepiece while evoking a sense of modern luxury.
“Today's world is characterized by diverse values, self-discovery, quick decision-making, digitalization, and virtualization,” says Kohta Yamane, Product Planner at Citizen Watch.
“We hope that the Series 8 will remind people of the importance of ‘being real’—the pleasure of holding something tangible, ‘being analog,’ and ‘living like a human being.’”
Kohta Yamane, Product Planner, Citizen Watch
Much like Bertrand’s approach of taking an older engine and crafting a modern aesthetic around it, Citizen has designed the Series 8 as an authentic mechanical watch with a contemporary look. “Our goal,” adds Yamane, “was to create a timepiece that suits individuals who embrace a modern, borderless, and free-living lifestyle.”
Dare to be Bold
In designing the Series 8, Citizen placed a strong emphasis on precision and durability.
One of the standout features is its antimagnetic resistance, which not only ensures accuracy but also practical functionality for everyday use in various environments. Unlike typical designs, Citizen integrates antimagnetic resistance directly into the material of the internal components rather than the case. This unique approach allows for a see-through back, enabling customers to admire its intricate mechanical movement.
“A wristwatch has evolved from a time-telling tool to an item that expresses a person's values and commitment,” says Yamane.
“Alongside practical functionality, our mechanical watches are designed to align with the diverse values of individuals.”
Kohta Yamane, Product Planner, Citizen Watch
For Bertrand, each day at his studio brings new challenges to balance design with rideability.
Much like how an artist’s critical self-reflection often fuels their creative journey, he says, “It’s always possible to do better work.” The Series 8, embodying the spirit of Citizen Watch, mirrors this relentless drive for improvement, continuously advancing towards the ideal through innovations such as the development of proprietary materials. It also undergoes repeated adjustments to balance the size of the watch, the finishing of the case and band, and to refine the hairline finish. This ensures a balance of design and functionality, optimal light reflection, and achieves a distinct industrial look suited for modern, sporty watch fans.
Face the Facts
At the end of each day, as Bertrand turns off the lights in his workshop, he takes a moment to celebrate the day’s progress and eagerly anticipate the next. For him, much like with the Series 8, the journey is not confined to the present moment but is a continual pursuit of perfection.
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