When it comes to watchmaking, “weird, wonderful, and complicated” rarely overlaps with genuine value. California-based microbrand Xeric has built its cult reputation by completely breaking that rule.

Eschewing safe, on-trend vintage divers in favour of wandering hours, jump hours, and exotic mechanical displays, Xeric creates timepieces unlike anything else on the market.

Now, collaborating with the horological experts at Worn & Wound, they have unleashed the Xeric x Worn & Wound Sector Retrograde Highlighter Watch.

Priced at an extraordinarily accessible $299, this 300-piece limited edition merges arcade-era nostalgia with a custom double-retrograde complication.

* Case Dimensions: 36.0 mm × 37.0 mm (10.25 mm Thickness)
* Case Material: 316L Stainless Steel w/ PVD Black Finish
* Movement: Miyota Quartz w/ Custom Double-Retrograde Module
* Complication: 120° Arc Double Retrograde Hours & Minutes w/ Jumping Hour
* Dial & Lume: Black Gridded Backdrop w/ Neon Lumed Indices
* Water Resistance: 3 ATM (30 Metres)

Arcade Nostalgia & Double Retrograde Mechanics

The foundation of the Sector began with Xeric’s earlier Volta model—a compact timepiece built around late 20th-century gaming aesthetics. For this special Worn & Wound collaboration, the team kept the punchy vintage spirit of the case while completely redesigning the display around a bespoke double-retrograde index.

Rather than standard circular hands, time is indicated across a sweeping 120-degree arc. Driven by a reliable Miyota quartz movement fitted with a custom retrograde module, a long, slender minute hand sweeps along the upper minute track.

Meanwhile, a skeletonised triangular hour hand glides along a curved lower index, snapping back in a satisfying jump as each hour transitions.

To enhance legibility, the even numerals from 6 to 6 are rendered larger and bolder, making time-telling instantly intuitive despite the unusual geometry.

Highlighter Neon & Light Cycle After Dark

The “Highlighter” designation comes from a very literal design inspiration: the vibrant neon markers that filled school backpacks throughout the 1990s.

Bright pops of blue, pink, orange, and green dance across a black gridded backdrop, echoing the look of classic arcade cabinets and early 16-bit vector graphics.

“By pairing neon highlighter hues against a black gridded dial and PVD case, Xeric and Worn & Wound have created a compact time machine that channels pure 1990s arcade energy.”

To ensure those high-contrast neon shades remain the main attraction, the 316L stainless steel case is treated with a sleek matte black PVD finish and paired with a comfortable black silicone strap.

When the lights go down, the dial truly comes alive. High-octane Super-LumiNova luminescence transforms the face into something resembling the glowing dashboard of a TRON Light Cycle.

Compact Ergonomics & Limited Availability

One of the most appealing aspects of the Sector is its refined, retro-feeling wrist presence. Measuring a compact 36mm by 37mm with a slim 10.25mm profile, it recalls the lightweight digital watches that defined the ’90s without feeling bulky or overbearing.

Feature Detail	Technical & Display Specification
Retail Price	$299 USD
Case Geometry	Compact Squircle (36 mm × 37 mm)
Crystal & Lens	Mineral Crystal Lens
Strap Hardware	Quick-Release 20mm Black Silicone Strap
Production Run	300 Pieces per Colourway (First Batch Ships October 2026)

Limited to just 300 pieces per colourway—with the initial batch shipping in October 2026—the Xeric x Worn & Wound Sector Retrograde Highlighter Watch ($299) is an absolute triumph of playful design and accessible horology.

For any collector looking to inject serious personality and retro-futuristic style into their daily rotation, this synthwave masterpiece is an opportunity not to be missed.

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