Chrono24 serves a global market of discerning watch collectors where the physical "look and feel" of a timepiece is central to the purchasing decision. The strategic goal was to reduce the barrier to purchase by allowing users to experience the scale and aesthetic of a watch without needing a physical appointment. However, creating a realistic virtual fitting for watches presents significant technical hurdles. The solution needed to provide high-fidelity renderings and precise "cylindrical band tracking" to ensure the watch sat naturally on a moving wrist. Furthermore, this complex feature had to be integrated seamlessly into the existing app infrastructure, ensuring that millions of users could access it via a simple update without compromising the established user experience. The ambition was not just to create a gimmick, but a functional, scalable tool that felt like a natural extension of the Chrono24 brand.

Seamless Appearance

In close cooperation with Chrono24, we designed a concept for the integration into the current application so that millions of users can access the new feature through a simple update. It was especially important to highlight the new user interface and explain the individual steps.

Innovative Technology

To provide the best user experience, we used the latest technologies. To create the cylindrical band tracking we used the Vuforia Framework, while simultaneously using the metal renderer for the scene to achieve a realistic representation. The biggest challenge was the smooth transition between the virtual fitting and the preview in the room.

Unique Shopping Experience

Correct scale and high level of detail allow users to try the models from anywhere in the world and without investing a lot of time in an appointment. In addition, it is possible to set and save the required size of the bracelet.

By integrating it within the existing product, Chrono24 was able to establish itself as a pioneer for AR in e-commerce.

Our interdisciplinary team focused on bridging the gap between high-end technology and intuitive user experience. We designed a concept that guided users through the virtual fitting process with a clear, minimal interface, highlighting the individual steps to ensure the best tracking results. On the technical side, we utilized the Vuforia Framework for robust cylindrical tracking and the Metal renderer to achieve realistic lighting and material textures for the virtual watch models. A primary focus was the "smooth transition"—ensuring the switch from the virtual fitting on the wrist to a preview of the watch in the room felt instantaneous and natural. We worked in close cooperation with Chrono24’s internal teams to ensure the AR module was lightweight enough for a seamless app update while remaining powerful enough to handle a growing database of highly detailed 3D models.