3D and visual work 3D Modeling

Roulette

A motion graphics project exploring 3D modeling of a wristwatch, using visual effects and storytelling to highlight the mechanism’s intricate design elements.

Duration: Sept – Dec, 2023
Tools: Cinema 4D, After Effects
Role: 3D Designer (Senior Project)

Ideation & Planning

Concept

This project, which was later exhibited through the 2023 IID Senior Exhibition, is a new exploration of a 3D modeling program through a motion graphic focused upon visual effects and storytelling. Using the structure of an automatic wristwatch as a motif, this project is centered around creating a new aesthetic visual accentuating the design elements that can be found in this intricate mechanism. By highlighting the intricate anatomy of a wristwatch while adding cinematic effects through texturing, keyframing, and camerawork, I aimed to convey my own perception of time.

Moodboard

Images in this moodboard are partly sourced online, strictly for reference. I do not own them, and all rights remain with their original creators.

Automatic wristwatch anatomy sketch

Exploded sketch of an automatic wristwatch movement

Final model wireframe of the watch movement

Escape WheelCentral PivotBalance WheelCenter WheelDial

Modeling

Final model wireframe

Camerawork

Camera paths

A ‘camera target’ was placed on the central pivot using a null object. The target animation tag was used on each of the octane cameras and centered towards the target in order to align the camera’s direction and focus onto a single point throughout the video.

Camera paths a, b and c, top view — Top view

Long shot of the movement — a. Long shot

Mid shot of the hands and gears — b. Mid shot

Close-up shot lit in orange — c. Close-up shot

Camera focus targeting

The focal point of the camera was fixed upon the top of the clock pivot as it traversed around the circular path. The depth of field was slightly adjusted as the camera transitioned between long and close-up shots.

Wireframe view with the camera focal point on the pivot and the Cinema 4D object list — Camera focal point

Cinema 4D workspace with the Octane live viewer, the viewport and the material list

Test render workspace

Render & Composition

Experimenting HDRI & textures

Rather than limiting watch components to metal, I experimented with new materials such as colorful plaster and clear glass to create more intriguing variations. I also tested varying color tones, transparency, surface curvature, and roughness levels. I adjusted the HDRI to express similar illumination levels according to the overall atmosphere of the watch components.