A good watch is a luxury. The concept is even more promoted through expensive, shiny luxury timepieces. Don’t get us wrong, we are all for those exquisite timepieces, too, but Treehut’s vision has always been broader. We always wanted to create timepieces and accessories that stood the test of time and were also loving for the planet. That’s why we choose wood. Not only is it a unique medium, it's also easy on the planet. But when it comes to wood - sourcing it sustainably is another question, and that’s where reclaimed wood watches come in.
What Is Reclaimed Wood?
Reclaimed wood is a type of lumber salvaged from old buildings, structures, or furniture and repurposed for new applications. It is often sought after for its unique character and beauty. It may display natural weathering, knots, and other imperfections that give it a distinctive look.
Reclaimed wood is also an environmentally friendly option. It reduces the need for new timber to be harvested and processed, conserving natural resources.
Some familiar sources of reclaimed wood include old barns, factories, warehouses, and even wine barrels or shipping pallets. Reclaiming wood involves dismantling the original structure, cleaning and preparing it for use, and then milling it into new boards.
History of Reclaimed Wood
Its history dates back to when early settlers in North America used it for building homes, barns, and other structures. In the early 1900s, as industrialization took hold, old-growth timber rapidly depleted, and people started looking for alternative lumber sources. This led to increased use of recycled or reclaimed wood from old structures like factories, warehouses, and barns.
During the Great Depression of the 1930s, using reclaimed wood became even more widespread. People turned to salvage materials from abandoned buildings to build their homes and create new furniture.
This continued through World War II, when the demand for materials like steel and aluminum was high. Thus, wood became a more popular building material again.
In the 1970s, the environmental movement gained momentum, and the use of reclaimed wood gained popularity in reducing the impact of new construction on natural resources. Since then, the use of reclaimed wood has grown significantly, becoming a popular choice for sustainable building and design projects.
Today, people seek reclaimed wood for its unique character and environmental benefits, using it in a wide range of applications, from watches and furniture to wall paneling and decorative accents.
Benefits of Using Reclaimed Wood for Watches
Although craftsmen use reclaimed wood for many different purposes, its use in sustainable and eco-friendly watchmaking profoundly impacts the industry. Here is what makes reclaimed wood watches so unique:
Eco-friendly
We’ve probably hammered this point home by now, but reusing old wood instead of harvesting and processing new timber clearly benefits the environment.
Unique character
The way a reclaimed piece of wood is sourced and joined with others to create a watch is a love story. Different pieces are curated and handcrafted to create a reclaimed wood watch that is a sight to behold.
This is a true example of a sustainable timepiece, not to mention the fact that reclaimed wood is rare, which makes it even more special.
Strong and Durable
Reclaimed wood withstands decades of exposure to elements that stripes all the moisture from it, making it highly durable. A reclaimed wood watch will only grow with grace and will become a family heirloom for generations to come.
It is unique in every single sense. The way it comes from different and far off places of the world to a watchmaker and is then crafted with other element to create a timepiece that is truly timeless is remarkable.
