Time & Tide Discovery Studio

You know that feeling when you’re part of something much bigger. It’s like being a tiny cog in a massive watch, small yet vital. Well, that’s exactly how I felt today after walking out of the Time & Tide Discovery Studio. With their launch coming up at the end of October, I reached out to Andrew McUtcheon, hoping to snag an early peek. And guess what? I not only got the scoop but also became the first ‘press’ person to step through those doors. Talk about luck!

Read on and see what all the fuss is about and whether it’s worth checking out.

Andrew took me on a quick tour, and even though the place was still in the throes of construction, his excitement was infectious. We strolled from one section to the next, and he pointed out every little detail. “See that gold inlay on the shelving unit?” he said, running his hand over the edge. “We had it rounded off—it looks so much cleaner” The enthusiasm in his voice was unmistakable, and it was clear he had left no stone unturned to make this space perfect. The black-panelled walls are shelved and designed to house multiple recessed TVs, each for a different brand to showcase their watches. A 96” TV was still waiting to be mounted, but once it’s up, it’s going to be a showstopper.

The oak flooring beneath our feet, still covered in dust, hinted at how sleek the space would look once it was all cleaned up. I could already imagine it—one of the coolest spots in London to geek out over watches, connect with fellow enthusiasts, and just hang out. Andrew’s passion for creating an inviting, judgment-free environment was evident in every part of the studio.

We’ve Not Had A Place Like This Before

We found a spot on the plastic-covered seating lining the perimeter of the room, mic’d up, and started our interview. I have to admit, I’m still pretty new to this whole interviewing thing, and my nerves were buzzing louder than the drills. But Andrew, being the pro he is, put me right at ease. He gave me his undivided attention, even when some high-profile brands (who I can’t name yet!) popped in for a quick look around.

The noise from the building crew set a lively backdrop to our chat, and it felt like we were really in the thick of it. We started off talking about what watches we were wearing—standard procedure, right?—and within minutes,

I was sporting his Toledano & Chan B/1 with a stunning global lapis lazuli dial. Meanwhile, he had my Straum Jan Mayen Arctic Blue on his wrist, which I’d brought along for a review. Andrew’s eyes lit up as he talked about the Discovery Studio’s mission to introduce new, up-and-coming brands to the community—he was clearly in his element.

Toledano & Chan – B/1

The conversation shifted to how far he and Time & Tide have come over the years, battling through the ups and downs of the watch industry. We talked about the pivotal moment for Time & Tide: the 2020 pandemic lockdown. While the world came to a standstill, Andrew scored a special travel exemption from the Australian government, allowing him to move freely. He contacted as many brands as possible, and with their doors temporarily closed, they had all the time in the world to meet with him one-on-one. It was a golden opportunity that he seized, catapulting Time & Tide into a global sensation.

A Stunning Space

Andrew shared his plans for the studio, and let me tell you, it’s not just another watch showroom. The goal is to create a welcoming space for anyone, no matter where they are on their watch journey—whether you’re a seasoned collector or just getting your first taste of horology, everyone’s welcome. It’s about ditching the judgment and creating a community hub where people can come together.

Straum – Jan Mayen – Arctic Blue

All the staff will be trained in-depth so they can share their passion and knowledge with visitors. It’s an experience he’s determined to make one of a kind.

Then he showed me what he calls the ‘white room.’ This space is reserved for special events, imagine masterclasses led by the likes of Max Büsser of MB&F. Or perhaps a live demo from a master watchmaker. It’s a place where enthusiasts can learn directly from the legends of the industry, and Andrew’s excitement for these upcoming events was palpable. You could see his eyes light up as he described his vision for the space. There’s no doubt he’s creating something special here.

At the Time & Tide Discovery Studio, Andrew has designed his own Office/VIP Area—a personal haven where he can operate daily, staying close to the action while maintaining a relaxed atmosphere. The vibe he’s going for isn’t your typical retail experience; it’s more like a cosy, livable space where people can feel at ease. The aim is to create an environment that feels welcoming, not transactional. By letting customers feel comfortable and not pressured to linger, Andrew is breaking away from the usual retail norms, making the experience all about genuine connection and community.