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ABOUT ARTUR AKMAEV

Akmaev is led by Artur Akmaev, a Russian-born jeweler and watchmaker based in Los Angeles, known for creating hand-engraved timepieces that merge artistic expression with mechanical precision.

His journey began in 2003 at the Carl Fabergé College of Arts and Crafts in Moscow, where he trained in jewelry design and engraving. After graduation, he joined a Moscow watch atelier, developing a strong foundation in watchmaking while refining his engraving skills directly on timepieces.

In 2017, he relocated to the United States and began working alongside independent watchmakers David Walter and Josh Shapiro, further advancing his technical and artistic approach. He has also continued his education in high-level finishing and engraving, including training with Jeff Park and an anglage course led by Philippe Narbel.

Akmaev’s work is defined by intricate hand engraving, enamel detailing, and a distinctive visual language influenced by a wide range of sources, from historical decorative arts to contemporary culture. The result is a collection of highly individual timepieces that function as both precision instruments and wearable works of art.

THE CARBON COLLECITON

Artur Akmaev's Carbon Collection showcases hand-engraved timepieces inspired by natural textures, notably the fossilized bark pattern of the extinct Lepidodendron tree. Each watch features a multi-layered dial with a meticulously engraved center and customizable hour rings, available in various metals and finishes. The collection offers options like blued spring steel dials with silver hour rings and black-polished stainless steel hands, or whitened silver dials with frosted hour rings and rose gold-plated numerals. Housed in 39mm stainless steel cases, these watches are powered by Swiss-made ETA 2824 automatic movements, showcasing Akmaev's dedication to blending artistic craftsmanship with horological precision.

Ethan's Note:

I’ve known Artur for a few years now, and he’s genuinely one of the kindest people in the industry. Spending time around him, it becomes clear that everything he creates is a reflection of who he is. There’s a lot of personal inspiration behind his work, and that comes through in a way that feels authentic, not forced.A lot of his pieces pull from things he’s genuinely interested in, whether that’s traditional decorative arts, engraving techniques, or even more unexpected influences. It never feels like he’s designing for the sake of the market. It always feels like he’s making something he actually believes in, and that’s a big part of why the work stands out.What really stands out is the level he operates at. When names like Josh Shapiro and Royter trust him with their engraving, that tells you everything. This is work at the highest level, and it doesn’t get handed out lightly. He’s one of the best engravers working today, and still somehow under the radar. Once more people start paying attention, I don’t think that’s going to last.