Introducing Sophie Scott-Lewis: Renowned Horological Artist

Meet Sophie, a renowned horological artist based in the Cotswolds, UK. Working from her rural studio, she creates extraordinary photorealistic graphite artworks for international watch brands and collectors around the world.

We're over the moon to welcome Sophie to our roster of ambassadors.

Ahead of WindUp Watch Fair in New York, we caught up to learn a little more about Sophie's background, her fascination with mechanical watches, and what drives her creativity.

Of all the things you could choose to draw, why watches? 

"I've always been fascinated by mechanical things, gadgets and understanding what makes them work.

As a kid, I'd strap my dad's pager to my belt and pretend it could beam me to Mars, or I'd take apart my go-kart just to understand it better. Watches and their precision hold that same intrigue for me.

I remember my first watch at the age of 10. It was a Swatch that beeped, and I immediately wanted to know what made it tick.

Watches came back into my life when I was looking for an anniversary present. I was reminded of their mechanical beauty and fell straight back down the watch-world rabbit hole"

How long have you been drawing watches professionally? 

"I've been a full-time watch artist for the last two years, but I've worked in art my whole professional life.

Before this, I was an Art Director and Illustrator in London, where I had the opportunity to work with the BBC, Bear Grylls, Sir Paul McCartney and Tate Modern.

From my Foundation Degree in Gloucester to a Photography Degree in Nottingham, and finally my Master's in Art and Illustration from the University of Hertfordshire, I've been fully immersed in the art world for over 23 years. I just love everything about it."

Why do you work in graphite?

"Honestly, I just find it easier to work with, and I'm a better artist when I'm using it.

There's so much that can go wrong with colour. I much prefer the tonal values you can achieve with graphite. It's also cheaper when you're getting started!"

You've worked with everyone from Roger Smith and private commissions to being the first resident artist at British Watchmakers' Day. How has working with Elliot Brown been?

"I'm a huge lover of the outdoors and adventure. While that's a little harder now as a mum of three, I still dream of being out in the wild.

Wearing an Elliot Brown reminds me of my adventurous streak and childhood memories with my family. It makes me want to be in the mountains, putting my kit and myself to the test in a much more rugged environment than my studio.

I also love a larger watch. I've never been one to follow the crowd, and wearing the 43mm Black Whiteout is something you'd probably expect to see on a military man rather than a petite female artist. It makes me happy that it's an unexpected choice."

How have you found drawing the watch?

"I'm just under halfway through, and it's a dream to draw.

I love that it doesn't try to be something it isn't. Clean, considered lines. It's an honest interpretation of watch design."

Are you looking forward to  WindUp Watch Fair, New York?

"New York is one of my favourite cities, and I've been wanting to visit WindUp for years.

The show is now the biggest independent watch show in the world, and I can't wait to be part of it rather than just a visitor.

I'm really looking forward to finishing the drawing there. It's not often I get to show the outside world how I work, so it's going to be very cool to have an audience and for them to see the artwork evolve throughout the weekend."

Now for the really important questions...

Best day of the week?
Thursday. It’s cooler, slightly more mysterious than Friday.

Marvel or DC?
DC. Wonder Woman is iconic, and frankly, I’d like to be that buff.

Bond or Bourne?
Bond. Impeccable suits. I’m easily persuaded by good tailoring.

First music gig you went to?
Snow Patrol. They were my absolute favourite band growing up. I knew every word. All these years later, I probably still do.

Beer or whisky?
Tia Maria on the rocks. My friends call me ‘Granny’ for drinking it. I say it’s distinguished.

Favourite Book?
The Rachel Papers by Martin Amis, but I was mainly lost in art journals growing up.

Personal Hero?
Felicity Aston, the British Antarctic explorer. Anyone who voluntarily heads solo across Antarctica has my utmost respect.

3 Guests at a Dinner Party?
Gérald Genta: I’d be like a sponge around his genius.
Judi Dench: I’d immediately ask her to adopt me.
Meghan Trainor: Please don’t ask. I have no explanation, and frankly, I don’t think one is needed.

Guilty pleasure film?
Notting Hill, or pretty much anything with a cheesy, unrealistic love story in it. I have no shame.

First Single you bought?
Spice Girls, Wannabe. Who didn’t own this?

Sand or Snow?
Snow: I’ve always liked a challenge. (Antarctica is my dream holiday destination.)

Go to Karaoke song?
Unhealthy by Anne-Marie. The title is probably a warning.

Finally, why Elliot Brown?
Because wearing their watches makes me feel like I can tackle anything life throws at me. And they look effortlessly cool while doing it.

Sophie wears:

BLOXWORTH: 929-110-R55 HOLTON: 101-A24-R07  BEACHMASTER: 0H0-A02-B12