A growing number of independent watch brands are drawing attention for taking a different approach to classic design, and one model in particular has sparked conversation for its look. The McQ: Salmon watch, priced at £445, is available on the Detrash website and bears a resemblance to luxury dress watches like the £40,000 Patek Philippe Calatrava.
The McQ is named in honour of Steve McQueen, with the design starting from the Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox he wore in The Thomas Crown Affair (1968). The brand added Gerald Genta-inspired twisted lugs from the Universal Geneve Polerouter, 'a few design cues from the Patek Philippe Calatrava', and details made from trash materials. The watch features a slim 8mm profile, 38mm diameter, and an uncluttered dial.
Its case is crafted from 80% recycled surgical-grade steel, keeping it lightweight yet durable. The strap is a vegan leather called BeerSkin, made using brewing by-products. Production is deliberately small, with each watch individually numbered.
One customer wrote: “Well and truly over the elitism of the luxury brands… The Detrash McQ is far and away the standout piece of my new collection. An absolute stunner to look at and a build quality that makes a mockery of the supposedly high end brands.” Another said: “I got number 60 for my 60th birthday. It’s a really classy dress watch that is nicely made and I love the environmental aspect.”
A minor complaint on Trustpilot mentioned “spamming asking for reviews” before a gift was opened, but positive feedback dominates.
