Project Overview
Essentia watch face was born out of the need for a layout that’s simple yet packed with the essentials. My goal was to create something I could rely on every day—clean, approachable, and functional. Essentia is my answer, and now I’m sharing it with others who might feel the same way.
Problem Statement
Many watch faces either do too little or too much. Some are visually appealing but lack the data you actually need, while others cram too much on the screen, making them frustrating to use. For someone like me, who juggles fitness routines, a packed calendar, and the need to stay on top of tasks, neither extreme worked. I wanted something simple, functional, and balanced—but couldn’t find it.
The Goal
- Clarity First: Create a design that makes it easy to spot the information I care about at a glance.
- Customizable Data: Support users with the flexibility to tailor complications for their specific needs.
- Effortless Aesthetic: Make it functional without being overwhelming, and visually appealing without being overdesigned.
Process
1. Starting with Research
I studied watch faces I’d used (and abandoned) over time. Some were gorgeous but impractical, while others were useful but lacked personality. I sketched ideas, keeping usability in mind, and leaned into what I wanted: easy-to-read stats presented in a layout that felt intuitive.
2. Prototyping What Matters
I focused on creating a logical structure. Where does your eye go first? How quickly can you get the information you need? Through trial and error, I developed a layout that felt right—minimal clutter but enough depth to keep it useful day-to-day.
3. Features That Shine
- Customizable Complications: Users can customize default complications to display key information such as fitness stats, heart rate, date, or battery level, ensuring it meets their personal needs.
- Glanceable Design: You shouldn’t have to squint or scroll. Everything you need is easy to find, so it fits into your life effortlessly.
- Made for Balance: Whether you’re tracking your steps, glancing at your next meeting, or just checking the time, Essentia keeps everything in harmony.
4. Refinement and Real-World Testing
I invited testers to give me feedback on the usability, clarity, and overall vibe of the design. Through their input, I tweaked spacing, typography, and visual balance. I wanted Essentia to feel like a natural extension of the user’s day—not an extra step.
Outcome
The final design is everything I hoped for: clean, functional, and adaptable to different lifestyles. Whether you’re using it for fitness tracking, managing your workday, or just keeping things simple, Essentia is built to meet you where you are.
Learnings
- Balance Is Key: Too simple or too busy? Neither works. Getting it just right took patience and testing.
- People Want Options: Customization is everything—it’s what makes a tool personal and indispensable.
- Details Make the Difference: From font size to spacing, every choice matters in a design you interact with every day.
Testing
If you’d like early access to Essentia and want to try it before it officially launches, I’d love for you to join in and share your thoughts! The watch face is available for most devices with WearOS.
Thank you for checking out Essentia—I hope it can become as useful for you as it is for me!
