Riccardo Ugolini

Founder, Ugolini Meccanica

What inspired the creation of Ugolini Meccanica Watches, and how did your journey in watchmaking begin?

I’ve always been passionate about watches, and like many others, I dreamed of building one myself. But the challenges of designing, reaching out to suppliers, and assembling everything weren’t easy especially from a financial standpoint.

What kept me going was passion and determination. I started studying design, took CAD drawing courses, and eventually bought a CNC machine that I set up at home. That’s where it all began.

Of course, my partner has always encouraged me and has been my number one fan from the very beginning! In fact, today we work together on this project.

What does your “invisible on the wrist” philosophy mean, and how does it shape your designs?

In addition to watches, I’ve always had a deep passion for motorcycles and speed. The key to being fast is being lightweight carbon fiber and aluminum are the ultimate light and durable materials. They’re used in motorsports, in aviation, and in every field where those characteristics are essential.

I applied the same principle to watchmaking in fact, my very first watch was made entirely of carbon fiber.

Could you walk us through the process of designing and assembling a Ugolini Meccanica watch from concept to completion?

My watches are born from within from what I feel, from my emotions. These emotions take shape and turn into forms that I design directly on the computer; pencil and paper don’t exist in this process.

Designing can take a few hours, a few weeks, or even months, it depends entirely on what I feel. I let the emotions guide me.

Once the design phase begins, everything becomes very precise: calculations for water resistance, measurements down to a tenth of a millimeter for the buttons, positioning the crown at the right height, designing the slots for the gaskets, and the grooves for the crystals.

When the design is complete, I 3D print a prototype to ensure the watch is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional. Once everything checks out, I contact my workshop to begin the actual production process.

We then reach out to suppliers for the movements, hands, crystals, and all other components that make up the watch.

Once I have every part in my hands, I move on to the assembly that’s the best part. Every time I complete a watch, it’s an emotional moment because each one is different, with its own personality.

How do you select the materials and movements used in your watches? What role does innovation play in your choice of components?

I prefer lightweight materials a watch on the wrist should feel light and comfortable to wear.

The movements are chosen based on the price range we want to position the watch in. I'm open to all types of movements, whether Swiss or Chinese.

Innovation plays an important role, but in the end, it’s the design that truly makes the difference.

What are the signature design traits that make a Ugolini Meccanica watch instantly recognizable?

I believe Ugolini Meccanica is recognizable by its industrial character  sharp edges, steel screws on the bezel. They reflect a bold, distinctive personality.

How does being based in Rome influence your design aesthetic and brand identity?

Being based in Rome has a big influence on my design approach and overall brand identity. Rome is a city where history, architecture, and engineering coexist in everyday life from ancient ruins to bold, modern structures. That contrast between past and future inspires me constantly.

You can see this influence in the industrial, mechanical feel of my watches: sharp lines, exposed screws, and solid materials. There’s a sense of permanence and precision that I try to bring into each piece, just like the craftsmanship you find throughout the city.

At the same time, Rome teaches patience nothing is rushed here. That helps me focus on building things with care and meaning.

Ugolini Meccanica aims to make high-quality watches accessible to enthusiasts. How do you balance exclusivity with accessibility?

That balance was definitely one of the biggest challenges in the beginning. People are often skeptical especially in the watch world, where heritage and big names dominate. When you come in as a small, independent maker offering something high-quality at an accessible price, the first reaction is often doubt.

I had to earn trust over time. Slowly, through consistency, transparency, and passion, I started gaining the respect of many enthusiasts. I never cut corners on materials or design every watch reflects the same care and attention I’d want if I were the customer.

It’s a process that takes time. You can’t force credibility; you have to build it. Today, I’m proud to say that many collectors recognize the value in what I do. They understand that exclusivity doesn’t have to mean overpriced it can also mean personal, intentional, and crafted with care.

What have been the biggest challenges you’ve faced as an independent artisan brand, and what milestones are you most proud of?

The biggest challenge was building credibility and trust in a market dominated by heritage brands. But the greatest reward has been seeing watch enthusiasts and collectors appreciate the authenticity and craftsmanship behind Ugolini Meccanica. Each positive message, each satisfied customer that’s a milestone in itself.

Who do you see as the typical Ugolini Meccanica customer, and how do you connect with watch enthusiasts around the world?

Our customers are people who appreciate design, mechanical precision, and individuality. They’re not looking for logos; they’re looking for personality and craftsmanship.

We connect mainly through online communities and social media, where transparency and dialogue help build a genuine bond with enthusiasts worldwide.

What can we expect next from Ugolini Meccanica new collections, collaborations, or innovations in the near future?

We’re working on new materials and limited series that will further explore the idea of mechanical minimalism and lightweight construction. The goal is to continue pushing boundaries while staying true to our industrial design DNA.

If you had to describe your watches in three words, what would they be and why?

Lightweight. Industrial. Emotional.

Because every watch is designed to feel effortless on the wrist, shaped by a mechanical soul, and born from a genuine emotional connection.

What message would you like to share with collectors and watch lovers who are discovering Ugolini Meccanica for the first time?

I’d say  give independent watchmakers a chance. Behind every piece is a story, a vision, and a person who puts their heart into it. When you wear a Ugolini Meccanica watch, you’re wearing passion made tangible.