A new generation of tools, designed and engineered for human life beyond Earth.
Mission
Barrelhand uses emerging technologies to build tools for the next frontier. Whether you’re an organization seeking to preserve archives on the Moon or a startup testing hardware for space, we collaborate with you to shape the next era of space exploration.
2054
2014
From NASA into watchmaking
Our journey started in 2014 when Karel Bachand, who previously did research for NASA, fell in love with watchmaking. From the very beginning, Barrelhand has been about collaborating with pioneers from various disciplines to open a window to the future.
2016
Platform for innovation
Beyond watchmaking, Barrelhand is a platform for innovation. We leverage our products as an outlet to showcase and explore transformative technologies, materials and ideas. We believe in curiosity and optimism, and in our capacity as humans to shape a positive future.
2020
Spaceship for your wrist
Project One is completed and delivered to independent collectors from around the world. Featured by press outlets including Forbes and recognized as a semi finalist for the Louis Vuitton Watch Prize, this unique piece serves as a powerful demonstration of the vast potential of 3D printing.
2021
Launch sequence of Monolith
Building on insights from Project One, we are developing Monolith - an EVA/IVA toolwatch for the next chapter of space exploration. We continuously share insights from its development with our community and have open-sourced our IP to enable collective review and improvement.
2024
Return to the Moon
Barrelhand participates in Intuitive Machines’ lunar mission - the world’s first successful private mission to the Moon. As part of the payload, we contributed the Memory Disc (v1), a permanent data storage with cultural artifacts. The mission also enabled final testing of the Monolith EVA toolwatch.
2025
Memory Disc Initiative
The Memory Disc evolves into a broader initiative to curate and safeguard human artifacts across the universe. We collaborate with artists, cultural organizations, and technology companies to deploy the Memory Disc across multiple space missions.
2026
Monolith arrives
Barrelhand unveils Monolith, a next-generation toolwatch engineered for modern spaceflight. Developed over six years from the ground up, Monolith sets a new standard for timekeeping in the harshest of environments.
2054
Space as a lifestyle
A space renaissance is unfolding, as humanity faces more ambitious challenges than ever before: building a permanent lunar base, enabling crewed missions to Mars, and expanding access to space for both professional and civilian astronauts. Barrelhand welcomes collaboration on new product ideas and upcoming space missions - together, we create the tools for the next frontier.
Karel Bachand
Founder, CEO & Chief Engineer
Karel is an independent watchmaker and engineer based in San Francisco. He started his career at NASA Ames Research Center developing simulated microgravity devices. A first-mover and expert in 3D printing, he views watchmaking as an ideal platform to explore innovative engineering solutions to complex challenges. For his work on Project One, Karel has been awarded Forbes 30 under 30 and received wide recognition within the watch industry and beyond.
Michael Sorkin
Co-Founder, Chief Strategy Officer
Michael is a serial entrepreneur, investor, pilot and long-time watch enthusiast. Active in the 3D-printing industry for over 10 years, Michael founded Europe’s largest distributor for additive manufacturing technologies. He also served as managing director for the leading manufacturer of desktop 3D-printers. For his role in advancing digital fabrication, Michael received numerous recognitions including Forbes 30 under 30.
Nicolas Klaus
Partner, Advisor
Nicolas is an entrepreneur working at the intersection of technology, art, and space. He has held leadership roles in the 3D printing industry and serves as CEO of Portals - a globally recognized public art initiative connecting cities through technology sculptures, creating a shared sense of the “Overview Effect” in public spaces worldwide.
Hamish Vallabh
Partner, Head of Brand Strategy
Hamish is a brand strategist and venture builder with over 15 years of experience leading strategy and innovation work for companies including Apple, Mercedes-Benz, and Boston Consulting Group. He is the founder of Shiny Objects, a strategy and innovation studio for the watch industry, where he partners with brands to shape how they design, position, and communicate their offerings.