Red 5 Watch Works grew from Ron Elkins’s fascination with mechanical watches and the satisfaction of making something personal.

Around 2000, Ron began modifying watches, reshaping cases, experimenting with finishes, and building pieces for himself. That curiosity gradually led him into custom dial making, combining design, machining, and engraving to turn his ideas into working watches.

His work has since extended to collaborations with independent watch brand Sartory-Billard. His best-known contributions include the engraved brass dial for the unique 2024 TimeForArt SB04, auctioned by Phillips, and the dial engraving for the SB10 250th Anniversary.

In his workshop, CNC machining, laser engraving, and physical prototypes help him explore new shapes, textures, and possibilities.

Project Butters marks a new chapter for RED5. With his own jump-hour watch, Ron has created a platform to explore new ideas in dial design, materials, and finishes.