From Lockdown Sketches to Timeless Craft: AVI-8 Teams Up with INKDIAL for a Limited-Edition Masterpiece

In the dynamic realm of horology, where precision meets art, UK-based visual artist Ben Li, famously known as INKDIAL, has etched his name into the watchmaking narrative. Celebrating four years of exceptional watch illustrations, Ben’s latest collaboration with AVI-8 marks a significant milestone in his creative journey.

The Spark of INKDIAL

Ben Li’s journey began in Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, and took a pivotal turn during the 2020 lockdown. What started as a meditative personal project evolved into INKDIAL, an artistic identity known for detailed, marker-and-pen watch illustrations. Over time, Ben has collaborated with luxury giants like IWC, Jaeger-LeCoultre, G-SHOCK, and BRABUS, creating a rich portfolio of over 300 captivating designs.

“The process of sketching watches was therapeutic—an amazing and Zen experience,” Ben reflects. This passion for symmetrical precision and intricate designs has made INKDIAL a beacon in the watch illustration community.

A Reunion with AVI-8

The collaboration between AVI-8 and INKDIAL carries a poetic resonance: the first watch Ben ever illustrated was an AVI-8 timepiece. This year’s partnership celebrates their shared history through the limited-edition Hawker Hurricane INKDIAL Chronograph, a watch that seamlessly blends Ben’s artistic flair with AVI-8’s craftsmanship.

This collector’s piece, limited to 400 units, showcases INKDIAL’s “blueprint” style, featuring gridlines, hand-drawn elements, and luminous highlights. A glowing green "4" on the dial commemorates Ben’s four-year journey in the art form. Each purchase comes with thoughtful extras—a luminous nylon strap, a booklet detailing Ben’s creative process, and a UV torch for an immersive unboxing experience.

The Art of Horology

Horology isn’t just about tracking time; it’s a testament to artistry and engineering. The collaboration between AVI-8 and INKDIAL reaffirms the emotional connection between watches and their wearers, merging functionality with artistic storytelling.

The Hawker Hurricane INKDIAL Chronograph not only honors a milestone in Ben’s career but also stands as a symbol of the synergy between traditional craftsmanship and modern creativity. Priced at £295, this timepiece is a must-have for art and watch enthusiasts alike, offering more than just a way to tell time—it offers a story to wear.