This project was both fun and challenging. Digital artists can learn from the process of this project. Doing this helped me learn more about what Adobe Illustrator can do. One of the things that I learned that I got excited about is how I developed an eye for shapes. As I was trying to create a photorealistic watch, I started to learn to pay attention to details. I realized more how important it is to understand how shapes work.

The journey started with sketches.

My goal for sketching these was to remind myself of the different designs of wrist-watches I have seen in the past. Doing this helped me notice the different parts that a watch has. It gave me an idea of the things that I need to make sure I know how to do in Illustrator, like:
using gradients, using the rotate tool and the repeat tool, using blurs, and more. After sketching, it was time to pick a reference picture that I can use to create my photorealist wrist watch.

Here is my reference image and photos of my digital sketches:

The feedbacks I got are focused on making sure I pay attention to the highlights and shadows on the bands. This was really challenging to me because the tools I need to make it work are new to me. I focused on making sure that I have all the shapes I can see. I thought this was important because I saw those shapes as elements in the image. If I miss one, it will affect how realistic the vector art will look. Although this part took the longest to finish, it was the most satisfying. 

It's time for the final product!

The one on the left is the Vector art. I am glad I chose this reference photo because it taught me how to pay attention to details, especially shapes. It is my greatest take away from creating this Photorealistic Wrist Watch. I can learn how to use the tools by watching tutorials or making projects and playing around with Illustrator. But learning how to pay attention to details come with practice. I am not perfect at it but this project got the ball rolling. I didn't think I can do this at first. I was intimidated by the idea of creating a vector art that looks real. But the process taught me that through time and effort, it is possible to learn and do something new.