An ultra-premium craft gin meets a custom hourglass bottle in a celebration of time and indulgence
Background
As the creator behind Tempus Fugit, I was inspired to design something more than a simple gin bottle. I envisioned a timeless masterpiece that celebrates the fleeting nature of time, a constant reminder to cherish life’s indulgences. Thus, the name Tempus Fugit—“time flies”—became the cornerstone of the brand, reflecting a premium spirit that fuses design, craftsmanship, and flavor into a singular experience. This ultra-premium gin, created for the fictional Klinger Distillery, is more than a drink; it’s a symbol of luxury and artistic expression.
The Gin
Tempus Fugit is a craft gin with a special infusion method that sets it apart. It’s made with a unique blend of 18 herbs, each carefully selected to create a well-balanced and intricate flavor profile. The infusion of zeolite—a natural mineral—ensures that the gin is purer, cleaner, and healthier. Every sip reveals a depth of botanical layers, echoing the thoughtful craftsmanship that went into its creation. This is not just a gin, but an experience of refinement.
Design Philosophy
The heart of the design is the hourglass shape. I wanted the bottle itself to embody the concept of time flowing, a metaphor for the precious moments we enjoy when savoring a craft spirit. The custom turquoise glass, enriched with vivid beryl hues, adds a layer of visual intrigue. The glass interacts with light and liquid, creating an effect that makes the bottom look like a shimmering pile of gemstones. This wasn’t just about aesthetics; it was about creating a visual dialogue between time, luxury, and pleasure.
Base Design Features
The base of the hourglass bottle is designed to be both functional and artistic. Made from thick, solid glass, it features a sand-pile shape, further enhancing the hourglass theme. Light refracts through the glass and liquid, creating an illusion of glistening gems at the bottom. To complement the solidity of the base, I designed the bottom cap from brushed aluminum, giving it both stability and a premium touch.
Upper Design Features
The top cap is where form meets function in a highly artistic way. I was inspired by the see-through designs of automatic wrist watches, where transparency allows for a beautiful play of light. Made from two-tone glass and brushed aluminum, this cap not only enhances the hourglass design but also invites light to pass through, creating dynamic reflections from both the gin and the environment. It adds a luxurious detail that makes the entire bottle feel like a timepiece in its own right.
Inspiration and Craftsmanship
The concept of Tempus Fugit centers around the fleeting nature of time. We must savor the moments that pass, and what better way to do so than with a glass of ultra-premium gin? Every element of the bottle reflects this philosophy. Even the fonts used on the bottle are custom-designed by Kiril Zlatkov, ensuring that every aspect, down to the last letter, is entirely unique to this project.Creating a bottle of this complexity was no small feat. Combining brushed aluminum, two-tone glass, and custom turquoise hues required innovative thinking and exceptional craftsmanship. Every step, from the design to the production process, was an intricate dance between form and function. The final result, however, exceeded all expectations. Each detail, from the sturdy base to the translucent top, is crafted to perfection, offering both a tactile and visual experience that mirrors the premium nature of the gin inside.
Favorite Details
One of the most striking features of Tempus Fugit is the way it interacts with light. The reflections and refractions from the two-tone glass top, the solid glass base, and the turquoise body create a dynamic visual experience. Holding the bottle feels luxurious, with its weight and design reinforcing the quality of the product inside. The watch-inspired cap is another favorite element, as it not only serves a practical purpose but also elevates the entire experience of the bottle.
Conclusion
Tempus Fugit isn’t just a gin—it’s a celebration of design, time, and craftsmanship. From its custom hourglass bottle to its expertly crafted 18-herb recipe, every detail tells a story of indulgence and luxury. While this project was conceived as an inspirational endeavor, it is also available for those discerning clients who wish to bring this masterpiece into their own portfolio. With its ultra-premium positioning and innovative design, Tempus Fugit is a work of art, ready to capture the imagination of both gin connoisseurs and design lovers alike. This project is a true fusion of art and craftsmanship, redefining what a gin bottle can be.
Credits:
Client:The Klinger Distillery
Design: the Labelmaker
CGI Photo: Jordan Jelev
