Mr. Ricky Lam

Founder & Designer

OVD Watches

To begin, could you tell us about OVD Watches and the vision that drives the brand?

OVD was founded in 2016 on the belief that a watch should tell more than time — it should tell a story. Our goal is to create multidimensional experiences of time — where emotion, design, and atmosphere come together. Every collection invites people to feel time, not just see it.

Your crowdfunding success, especially with Project Full Moon, has been remarkable. What did that journey teach you?

Full Moon changed everything for us. It showed that crowdfunding isn’t just about selling, it’s about connecting. When people around the world support your vision, it’s deeply meaningful. For new creators, I’d say: you don’t need huge capital, just a sincere idea and the courage to bring it to life.

Looking back to OVD’s early days, what were the biggest challenges?

Being seen and trusted. The market is dominated by big names, and earning credibility as a newcomer was tough. In the beginning, I did everything myself  from design to packaging but it taught me how to build a brand from the ground up.

Your models like the Atlantiz Titanium Diver and Full Moon M1 show bold innovation. What fuels this spirit of experimentation?

I want our watches to feel alive. When a dial changes color or a lunar display shifts with light, time becomes something you can feel. That’s what drives us to transform time from a number into an experience.

OVD blends storytelling with engineering. How do you balance creativity and precision?

It’s always a dialogue between design and engineering. Creativity pushes boundaries, while engineering keeps it real. Our team works closely, testing and refining until we reach that perfect balance that feels truly “OVD.”

You often use Japanese automatic movements like the Miyota 9039. Why choose Japanese over Swiss movements at times?

It depends on the project. Japanese movements are incredibly stable, reliable, and practical — perfect for our concept-driven pieces. They give us room to focus on creativity while maintaining quality and precision.

Could you walk us through your production process — from idea to final watch?

Everything starts with a story. We sketch, model, and experiment with materials to bring that story to life. Prototyping refines the design, and final assembly is done by skilled technicians, followed by strict quality checks before it reaches the customer.

How do you maintain consistency when working with different suppliers?

We set what we call the “OVD Standard” — a shared understanding of both technical and aesthetic expectations. I personally review samples and visit production sites to ensure every detail reflects our philosophy.

What did crowdfunding teach you about today’s watch industry?

That honesty matters more than perfection. Supporters appreciate transparency and sincerity they want to be part of your journey, not just buy a product. Trust is the real foundation of any brand.

What’s next for OVD? Any upcoming designs or collaborations?

We’re launching a new collection inspired by the Ronin the masterless samurai  featuring Damascus steel that mirrors the texture of folded blades. Looking ahead, we’re developing a moon-themed collection with a retrograde time display  blending art, depth, and motion in a new way.

What advice would you give to aspiring watch designers?

Don’t chase trends start with your story. Design something that reflects who you are. Authenticity lasts longer than hype.

Which OVD model holds the most personal meaning for you?

Definitely the Full Moon M1. It was our breakthrough and a deeply personal project. Every lunar rotation reminds me of the nights spent creating it,  it’s more than a watch, it’s a memory.

Which brands or designers have influenced you the most?

MB&F, Urwerk, and Hajime Asaoka.They prove that watchmaking can be philosophical, emotional, and free from convention. That inspires me to stay authentic.

Finally, what does “time” mean to you, personally and as a designer?

Time is a trace of life, it shows change and impermanence. Designing a watch is, to me, creating a vessel to feel and appreciate the beauty of those passing moments.