Mission

A new generation of products, designed and engineered for human life beyond Earth.

Mission

A new generation of products, designed and engineered for human life beyond Earth.

Let’s go to space. Whether you’re an organization interested in preserving archives on the moon or a startup testing hardware for the next frontier, our network of launch providers and technology partners can take you there.

Lunar Payload Missions

Landed

Launch provider: Intuitive Machines IM 1
Landing site: Malapert A
Payload: Memory Disc V1
Purpose: TRL-9 certification
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Reserved

Launch provider: private Japanese space company
Landing site: to be announced
Payload: Memory Disc V2
Purpose: cultural preservation
Partners: UNESCO

Learn more

Open

Launch provider: Astrobotic Griffin Mission 1
Landing site: Mons Mouton
Payload: Memory Disc V3
Purpose: cultural preservation

We engage and partner with diverse organizations from the private and public sector.

Take me to the moon

2014

2015

2016

2020

2021

2024

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 committed to being a platform for innovation. This means we leverage our products as an outlet to showcase and explore transformative technologies, materials and mindsets. We believe in curiosity and optimism, and in our capacity as humans to shape a positive future.

2020

Spaceship for your wrist

Our first product, 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.Moreover, Project One provides the foundation for our new product line, which is guided by the requirements of space exploration.

2021

Monolith: the launch sequence

Building on the learnings of Project One, we are developing an EVA tool watch for the next chapter of space exploration. More than a watch, Monolith is a platform to research and apply innovative technologies and materials. We are continuously sharing insights from the development journey with our community.

2024

Return to the Moon

As the first watch company since the Apollo program, Barrelhand participated in the lunar mission conducted by the US space company Intuitive Machines, marking the world’s first successful private mission to the moon. Our contribution was v.1 of the Memory Disc, a permanent data storage device successfully delivered to the lunar surface. Additionally, the mission served the objective of conducting final testing of the Monolith EVA tool watch.

2054

Space as a lifestyle

Barrelhand is expanding access to the space economy. We welcome you to contact us to explore new product ideas and collaborate on our upcoming space missions, offering unique opportunities to be part of the journey into the cosmos.

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, Communications

Nicolas is an entrepreneur, advisor and space enthusiast. He’s been active in the 3D-printing industry for more than 7 years where he held various leadership positions. He is especially interested in exploring the intersection between art and science.