Interview with Bruno Moreira, IPR Student: Details and Challenges in Building His Watch
Bruno Moreira, Data Engineer at OutSystems in Portugal, stands out in the world of technology for his ability to adapt to and influence new trends. In building his watch, he managed to combine the traditional art of the watchmaker with the most advanced technology, reflecting a unique union of skills. Holding a master's degree in Networks and Telecommunications from the University of Coimbra, Bruno pursued a career in software engineering. Beyond his technical skills, he is known for his excellence in leading teams in diverse environments, always proving himself a problem solver.
His professional path has led him to work on major projects in the United States and Europe, consolidating his reputation as a data engineer and visionary. In addition to contributing to systems transformation projects, he is co-founder of Group TBM, demonstrating a strong entrepreneurial spirit with an impact on the global market. He is an example of how to harmonise technical precision with human values, and innovation with tradition.
Interview with Bruno Moreira
Tell me about yourself and how you discovered your passion for watchmaking.
Ah, ever since I was little I've been fascinated by complex mechanisms. I remember taking apart my grandfather's old watches just to see all the parts. When I heard about the course at the Institute, I didn't think twice.
What motivated you to enrol in the watchmaking course at the Instituto Português de Relojoaria?
I wanted to deepen my technical knowledge and have access to tools and techniques that I couldn't learn on my own. Besides, the Institute has a great reputation and great masters.
And the decision not to include a caseback on the watch, what led you to that choice?
Choosing to build the watch case in a single piece, without a separate caseback, was a decision I made for several reasons. First of all, this approach gives the watch greater robustness and structural integrity. Without the need for a joint or caseback, the risk of water or dust ingress is reduced, increasing the watch's durability. In addition, one-piece construction allows a cleaner, more elegant shape, with smooth, continuous lines. This design choice, although it does not allow the movement to be seen, focuses on the simplicity and elegance of the external form, offering the wearer a different experience. It shows that, sometimes, the beauty of watchmaking also lies in the simplicity and solidity of the exterior design.
And the dial and the hands, can you explain the creation process and what you plan to change?
The dial is quite special. It was laser-cut and is a sandwich type with aluminium discs. I painted it by hand myself and applied the luminescent material. As for the hands, for now they are painted blue, but I'm going to replace them with steel hands that will be tempered to obtain a perfect shade of blue.
These personal touches really give the watch a unique character. How do your customers react to these details?
They love them. Many of my customers are watch enthusiasts and appreciate these details that make each piece unique. The personalisation and attention to detail are what attract them.
Can you explain how you did the machining and the laser sintering to assemble the watch?
Of course, the process was quite interesting. I started with the machining, using a CNC lathe, which is essential for shaping the metal parts with incredible precision. This step is crucial to ensure that all the metal parts of the watch fit together perfectly and have the desired finish.
As for laser sintering, it was a fundamental technique for building the watch case. This technology allows us to deposit thin layers of metal powder and then fuse them using a laser. The process is repeated layer by layer until the case is complete. It is a method that offers extraordinary design freedom, making it possible to create complex shapes and fine details that would be impossible to achieve with traditional manufacturing methods.
Essentially, this process combined the precision of modern technology with the traditional art of watchmaking, allowing me to create a watch that is unique in terms of both aesthetics and functionality.
What inspired you to choose the ETA 6497 movement as the basis for your design?
It's a robust, reliable movement with a rich history. Besides, it's a large calibre, easy to work on and very popular among independent watchmakers.
What obstacles did you encounter and how did you overcome them?
The biggest challenge was adjusting the mechanism to achieve the desired precision. A lot of patience and trial and error, but with the guidance of my teachers, I managed to overcome it.
During this project, was there anything you learned that surprised you?
I learned that watchmaking is as much an art as it is a science. What surprised me was how much a hundredth of a millimetre or a single degree can make all the difference to how the watch runs.
How did you manage to sell your first 11 watches?
It was a combination of word of mouth and a presence on social media. I also showed my work at a few local craft events.
Do you have plans to make more watches or create new models?
Yes, I'm working on a new model with a more modern design and perhaps an additional complication, such as a calendar.
Cases of the new models at the testing stage
How do you see the future of handcrafted watchmaking, both in Portugal and in the rest of the world?
I think there is a resurgence in the appreciation of craftsmanship and quality. People want something unique, and that is good for independent watchmakers.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to get started in watchmaking?
I'd tell them to be patient and meticulous. And not to be afraid of making mistakes, because that's how you learn.
In your opinion, how do traditional watchmaking techniques combine with new technologies such as laser sintering?
In my opinion, traditional watchmaking techniques are the foundation of what I do. They provide a deep understanding of the mechanisms and of the history behind each piece. New technologies, on the other hand, such as laser sintering, open up a world of possibilities in terms of precision and design. It's like having the best of both worlds: art and technical precision. We can create pieces that respect tradition but that, at the same time, push the limits of what can be done with a watch. Not to mention that it allows personalisation on a level that would have been unthinkable in the past. I see the combination of these techniques as a natural evolution of watchmaking, where each new technological advance is a tool that can enrich our art.
And finally, what is your vision for the next series of watches you are going to create?
My vision is to keep innovating, combining the tradition of watchmaking with the modernity of new techniques. Every watch I make is an evolution, a learning experience. I want each new piece to tell a story, the story of traditional watchmaking intertwined with technological innovation.
For more information, contact: LinkedIn; brunosousamoreira@gmail.com
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