Conversations with Clark Draper

Today we’d like to introduce you to Clark Draper. 

Hi Clark, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My watch story started in 2016 when I started dreaming up concepts for a watch and a name for those watches. Tyrus watches was born! After that, it turned into a hunt on how to make them a reality. It soon escalated into talking with manufacturers and how to design and make watch samples. To finally getting those said samples in hand and inspecting the work. I’ve always been a watch fan and felt weird when I didn’t have one on my wrist. I became accustomed to wearing many other brands and had a desire to make my own one day. Seeing my own creation become a reality was something else, and something that I wanted to share with other watch fans. I started my own Instagram page for it at Tyruswatches and kept building momentum from there. I had a Kickstarter in 2018, but it fell short of its goal and I had learned a thing or two in the process. I am now sitting on my latest model hoping to get it back on Kickstarter in early 2022. 

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
As I had mentioned briefly, it’s has been difficult. Watching my first Kickstarter fall short was very hard, as I was so hopeful and excited to see it to its end and have a lineup of watches to sell. Then as I drew up the next model and looked to the future 2020 came around and threw a wrench into all of our lives. I have been working diligently with my manufacturers to ensure that my new watch can be made, and will be able to ship. I was also on the search for a videographer who could make a promo video for my watches and was successful in finding a partner who makes great quality videos. With rising inflation, I now see a rise in material cost. Another obstacle for sure but one I’m sure we’ll get past. 

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Outside of an aspiring watchmaker, I do have a day job that I balance. I work in healthcare as a resource that helps consult plant managers on life safety regulations. A very busy job for sure, but it brings up interesting talking points when they learn I’m trying to make watches. I love what I do for my professional career and am happy to serve the residents, and staff, in the 15 homes that I support. 

Have you learned any interesting or important lessons due to the Covid-19 Crisis?
I should have launched my Kickstarter for the League back in 2019 😂. 

Hindsight is 2020 after all, and if I’d known what we were in for I would have escalated this watch endeavor. 

Pricing:

• 180$ for Kickstarter early birds
• After Kickstarter 280$

Contact Info:

• Email: Tyruswatches@gmail.com
• Instagram: @tyruswatches
• Facebook: Tyrus watches