Fred Bekher is a Ukrainian industrial designer and entrepreneur who has become a prominent figure in the independent watchmaking scene as the founder and lead designer of Horizon Watches. Based in Kherson, Ukraine, Bekher’s professional journey began in the early 2010s. Despite initially studying to become a computer systems engineer, his lifelong interest in drawing and 3D design led him into the horological industry. He began his career as a 3D modeler for a Chinese watch factory before transitioning into freelance design in 2013, following an early collaboration with Elshan Tang of Zelos Watches.
Over the course of a decade, Bekher established himself as a prolific freelance designer, penning over 100 watch designs for more than 20 different microbrands, including notable names such as Zelos, Arcturus, Velhelm, Gruppo Gamma, and Feynman Timepieces. This extensive experience provided him with a deep understanding of case construction, dial aesthetics, and the technical requirements of mechanical timekeeping.
In 2021, driven by a desire to leave a professional legacy for his child, Bekher realized his long-term ambition of launching his own brand. He co-founded Horizon Watches in partnership with Singaporean entrepreneur Sugiharto Kusumadi. The brand’s identity is heavily influenced by Bekher’s childhood fascination with the literary works of Jules Verne, particularly Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea. This thematic inspiration is evident in the brand’s debut collection, the -N- (Nautilus), as well as subsequent releases like the Pilgrim and the Nemo.
Bekher’s design philosophy is characterized by a “neo-vintage” aesthetic that blends steampunk and Art Deco elements with modern engineering. His work is recognized for its technical complexity, featuring multi-part case constructions and innovative dial details, such as lume-coated date wheels integrated into hour markers. Under his leadership, Horizon Watches has successfully utilized crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter to bring its designs to a global audience of enthusiasts. Despite the challenges of operating from a region impacted by conflict, Bekher remains a dedicated figure in the microbrand community, focused on evolving his unique design language and establishing Horizon as a leading name in independent horology.