Frequently Asked Questions

How do I send my materials?

For Sand and Soil orders, you'll receive an Ovader Collection Kit by mail with everything you need, including a prepaid return shipping label and packaging for easy submission.

For Ashes orders, you'll first receive a Cremated Remains Kit directly from USPS. Once it arrives, Ovader will email you instructions & a prepaid shipping label to securely return the package to us.

How much ash, sand, or soil do I need?

Approximately one-half tablespoon is sufficient to create an Emberite™ dial.

What happens to the unused material?

Unused cremation ash will be returned with your completed watch. Unused sand and soil will be respectfully disposed of unless return shipment is specifically requested.

Why is the Ash Watch more expensive?

Unlike sand and soil, cremation ash must be shipped in accordance with USPS requirements for cremated remains. This process requires specialized packaging, labeling, and shipping services that are more expensive than standard shipping methods. The additional cost of these shipping requirements is included in the price of the Ash Watch.

How long does it take?

Our standard lead time is approximately 2–4 weeks from order placement to final delivery. Because every Ovader watch is handcrafted to order, periods of high demand may occasionally extend production times. If that happens, we'll keep you informed every step of the way.

Can I see a proof first?

Because every Emberite™ dial is handcrafted using natural materials, exact proofs are not available. Each watch is created using Ovader's design standards, craftsmanship, and experience to achieve the best possible result.

What is Emberite™?

Emberite™ is Ovader's proprietary process for transforming meaningful materials into a durable, stone-like dial material. The process permanently incorporates ashes, sand, or soil into the watch, creating a one-of-one dial with personal significance.

Is my watch truly one of one?

Yes. No two Emberite™ dials will ever look exactly alike. The Emberite™ process creates intentional variations in texture, pattern, and appearance, even when using the same type of material.

What movement is used?

The Seafara is powered by the reliable automatic Seiko NH38 movement.

Is the material permanently preserved?

The Emberite™ process is designed to permanently preserve the supplied material within the dial, creating a lasting connection to the people, places, and memories that matter most.

Is the watch water resistant?

Yes. The Seafara features a screw-down crown and screw-down caseback and is designed for everyday water resistance. Please refer to the product specifications for the official water resistance rating.

Can I use beach sand?

Absolutely. Beach sand is one of the most popular materials used in Emberite™ dials and can help preserve a connection to a favorite destination or meaningful place.

Can I use soil from a family property?

Yes. Soil from a childhood home, family property, farm, hunting land, or other meaningful location can be incorporated into an Emberite™ dial.

Will my materials be modified?

In some cases, materials may require minor preparation before they can be incorporated into an Emberite™ dial. Due to the precise tolerances of watch components, ashes, sand, or soil may be carefully refined to achieve a particle size suitable for the watchmaking process. This preparation does not alter the meaning or significance of the material and helps ensure the highest quality finished product.

What happens if there is a problem with my submitted material?

If the submitted material is unsuitable for the Emberite™ process, Ovader will contact you to discuss available options before any work begins.

Can I combine multiple materials in one watch?

Yes. You may combine any mixture of ashes, sand, and soil in a single Emberite™ dial. This includes ashes from multiple loved ones if desired. To ensure the correct proportions are used, any materials you wish to combine should be mixed together prior to being shipped to Ovader.

Will my finished watch look exactly like the photos?

The photos shown throughout the website are examples only. Because every Emberite™ dial is handcrafted from customer-supplied materials, variations in color, texture, and appearance should be expected. These variations are what make every Ovader watch truly one of one.

Is the Emberite™ material durable?

Yes. Emberite™ is designed to withstand normal daily wear while preserving the appearance and significance of the incorporated material.

Can I order a watch as a gift?

Absolutely. Many Ovader watches are purchased as meaningful gifts to commemorate a person, place, or life milestone.

Does Ovader keep any of my materials?

To support our one-year warranty and provide the ability to remake a dial in the event of damage or a manufacturing defect, Ovader retains one or two completed Emberite™ discs from each order. These discs are securely stored for the duration of the warranty period and are used only if a replacement is required. At the conclusion of the one-year warranty period, any retained Emberite™ discs will be respectfully disposed of.