Damascus Steel has always fascinated me, and seeing it used in a watch case is something truly special. So when I came across the McQuaide Q1 Obsidian—a debut piece from a new British brand—it immediately caught my attention. Bold, distinctive, and unlike anything else, it proves no two cases—or stories—are ever the same.
The story of McQuaide Watches began in February 2023, when founder Rob received a watch kit for his 30th birthday. What started as a fun project quickly became something more. As he pieced the watch together, he was fascinated by the mechanics, and the pride of wearing his first ever made watch by himself. This moment sparked his passion for horology.
Soon after, Rob built a homage to one of his favorite watches from parts sourced online, but his ambition grew, he wanted to create something original. That search led him to Damascus Steel, a material with striking patterns and centuries of tradition.
He was so captivated by Damascus Steel that he visited a renowned blacksmith in Boneyard, London, where he learned the craft of making the steel himself.
Months of research and collaboration with Swiss and Far East suppliers followed, leading to the first McQuaide watch, which exceeded every expectations.
From that point, McQuaide Watches grew into a brand built on individuality. Designed in the UK and assembled with precision by Horologium(one of the UK-s most renowned watch service center), each piece uses Damascus Steel cases, ensuring that no two watches are ever the same.
First things first. What is Damascus steel?
Damascus steel first appeared around the 3rd century in the Near East, but its origins likely trace back even earlier to India and Sri Lanka, where the technique for creating wootz steel was developed. The steel was renowned for its strength, flexibility, and ability to hold a sharp edge, qualities that made it ideal for weapons like swords and knives.
The distinctive wavy patterns, sometimes called “watered silk,” were not just decorative—they were the result of high-carbon steel folded and forged multiple times, creating layers of differing hardness. This process gave Damascus steel its legendary durability and sharpness. Tales of swords that could slice through a rifle barrel or cut a falling hair in half only added to the myth surrounding it.
By the 18th century, true Damascus steel production had faded. The exact techniques were lost, likely due to changes in metallurgy and the collapse of trade routes. For centuries, the original process was a mystery, inspiring fascination among metallurgists, historians, and blacksmiths alike.
Modern Damascus steel isn’t exactly the same as the ancient wootz blades, but it carries the same aesthetic and spirit. Today, skilled bladesmiths layer different steels, forge them together, and etch the patterns to reveal the iconic waves. Modern Damascus is prized not just for its beauty but also for its strength(well and edge retention for knifes)
Damascus steel is most often seen in knives and luxury goods, where it blends artistry with functionality. In watchmaking it remains rare, largely because working with the material is challenging.
Let’s Dive Back into the Q1 Obsidian
The Q1 Obsidian’s case is crafted from 36 layers of 316L and 304L stainless steel, forged together to create Damascus steel. Through a meticulous process of heating, folding, pressing, and finishing with a twist, each case develops its own distinctive laddered pattern, therefore no two watches are ever alike. The result is mesmerizing: the flowing textures catch the eye, and the precision in shaping both the case and bezel is evident in every detail. It feels rare and special, a piece that stands apart not only because of its material but also because of the skill and vision behind its creation.
The steel used in the Q1 Obsidian’s case was tested at the Royce Institute in the UK, confirming it is high-quality 316L and 304L stainless steel. Knowing this adds confidence in the durability and craftsmanship behind the watch. I will not go into details how the tests are made but you can find a description here: https://mcquaide.co.uk/blogs/news/damascus-steel-testing-at-the-royce-institute
Measuring 43.2mm in diameter and 15mm thick, it strikes a balance between ruggedness and refined design, while a screw-down crown engraved with the iconic ‘M’ logo of the brand.
The watch is definitely on the larger side in both diameter and thickness, with a 52mm lug-to-lug. Even so, it wears comfortably on my 17cm wrist and carries an impressive presence.
I firmly believe to accomplish the very impressive 1000m water resistance that sort of thickness and size is necessary so that it’s be able to withstand so much pressure.
You might argue that no one ever dives that deep, but the point is—if it can handle that kind of pressure, it can handle just about anything. This watch is as tough as they come, my friends. Whether you’re diving, swimming, jet-skiing, or simply caught in a tropical downpour, this watch handles it all with ease.
On the back side, the exhibition caseback offers a clear view of the Swiss Sellita SW200-1 automatic movement. With 28,800 BPH and a 38-hour power reserve, it combines reliability and durability, proving itself as a true workhorse. It is not the most decorated movement but comes with a laser engraved rotor with the name of the brand. That is a cool addition to the overall look. I always enjoy looking at the “soul” of a watch, so having a see-through back makes me really happy.
The dial is a celebration of craftsmanship. A black brass Guilloché pattern creates depth and texture, reflecting light in different ways as the watch moves(see on the photos, it changes from black to grey and different shades). The sweeping second hand features a claw shape end and a bold red tip, which is a lovely addition, while BGW9 Super-LumiNova is applied to the hands and indices, ensuring readability in any lighting. Oh boy it does light up like a firework in the dark.
The date window at 3 o’clock is a practical touch, though personally, I feel the dial could be even more captivating without it. I’d love to enjoy the full design uninterrupted. On the other hand a black date wheel with white numerals could be a nice alternative as well.
The unidirectional 120-click bezel is a joy to operate—it turns smoothly and gives off crisp, satisfying clicks with every adjustment. It also features BGW9 Super-LumiNova, producing a bright blue-green glow in low light (somewhere between the two colors, though I’m no color expert). The dial is protected by a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with AR coating, ensuring excellent clarity and protection in any condition, so you can enjoy the watch without worrying about everyday wear and tear.
With a 22mm lug width, the Q1 Obsidian comes on a rubber strap that feels comfortable on the wrist and keeps the watch well-balanced despite of its weight(118g). It’s a softer style of strap, making it easy to wear all day without any discomfort.
Final thoughts
There are watches, and then there are statements and the McQuaide Q1 Obsidian clearly belongs to the latter. Its 36-layer Damascus steel case, intricate brass Guilloché dial, and carefully considered details make it as much a work of art as a precision instrument.
This isn’t just a timepiece; it’s a celebration of individuality and craftsmanship. For collectors who value unique design, durability, and artistry, the Q1 Obsidian is truly mesmerizing and a standout addition to any collection.
Combine it with the Swiss Sellita SW200-1 automatic movement with its impressive 1000m water resistance and helium escape valve, and the Q1 Obsidian isn’t just a unique watch, it’s a bold, capable tool watch ready to handle anything coming its way.
For a debut release, this is an impressive start for such a young brand. The attention to detail and overall execution really show promise. I’m genuinely excited to see what they come up with next.
A little bit of additional information
From a customer’s perspective, ordering the McQuaide Q1 was an outstanding experience. From my very first inquiry to the moment the watch was delivered, everything went seamlessly. Rob is genuinely a great person—he takes the time to answer every question about the watch and its craftsmanship. He kept me updated throughout the process, letting me know when it was packaged, shipped, and even when it had reached my country. That kind of personal customer care is rare these days and makes owning a watch of this caliber feel even more special.
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Specifications:
- Case: Damascus steel
- Case diameter: 43.2mm
- Case thickness: 15mm
- Lug width: 22mm
- Lug-to-lug: 52mm
- Crystal: AR coated Sapphire
- Movement: Sellita SW200-1
- Features: Helium Valve, 1000m water resistance
- Weight (watch head only): 118g
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