Top 20 best mirco watch brands you can't afford to miss

Over recent years, there's been a surge of interest in watch microbrands that cater to niche audiences rather than the mass market. These small brands, rapidly growing in the mechanical watch segment, produce high-quality watches that attract connoisseurs. In this blog, we explore some of the finest microbrand watches available across various price ranges.

Before We Begin...

Let's define what a microbrand is for our list. A microbrand is a limited-production watch company that focuses on a specific style and lacks the resources to create in-house movements. This excludes independent watchmakers with higher craftsmanship, like Habring2, or brands like Christopher Ward with significant production capabilities. We'll avoid including brands that lean more towards "independents" than "microbrands," though some exceptions may push these boundaries.

1. Autodromo | A Drive Through Time

Rev your engines and embrace the nostalgia with Autodromo, a brand that masterfully blends the spirit of midcentury motoring with sleek, minimalist watch design. Founded by visionary industrial designer Bradley Price, Autodromo pieces are not just watches—they're a journey to the golden era of cars. With designs reminiscent of vintage dashboard instruments and the robust Miyota 9-series automatic movement, these watches are a must-have for any car enthusiast. If you're looking to capture the essence of speed and style on your wrist, Autodromo is your pit stop.

2. Dan Henry | Time Travel on Your Wrist

Step into a world where classic elegance meets modern affordability with Dan Henry watches. Born from a collector's passion, this microbrand is the culmination of Dan Henry's 30-year journey through over 1,500 vintage timepieces. Each design is a tribute to iconic watches that redefined their era. With stunning aesthetics and a nod to history, Dan Henry offers timeless pieces that every watch lover can afford. Discover the allure of vintage luxury without breaking the bank.

3. Carpenter watches | Crafting Time with Elegance

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Brooklyn, Carpenter Watches brings a touch of vintage charm to the bustling cityscape. Founded by Neil Carpenter, a Savannah College of Art alum, this boutique brand draws inspiration from his family's collection of American vintage pocket watches. Each piece embodies classical, minimalist aesthetics combined with modern reliability. If you appreciate timeless design and meticulous craftsmanship, Carpenter Watches is a must-have on your wrist.

4. Deepwater watches | Dive into Precision

For those who crave adventure beneath the waves, Deep Blue is your go-to brand. Established in 2007, this microbrand has quickly become a powerhouse in the dive watch arena. Known for their robust and dependable timepieces, Deep Blue offers a staggering variety of dial colors and case styles to suit every diver's taste. Whether you're a professional diver or just love the ocean's call, Deep Blue promises precision and reliability with every dive.

5. Halios | The Cult Favorite of Microbrand Watches

Dive into the world of Halios, a Vancouver-based brand that's stirring waves in the watch community. Often dubbed the "Rolex of microbrands," Halios has earned its cult status through impeccable design and rapid inventory turnover. Since its debut in 2009, the brand has captivated enthusiasts with models like the Seaforth. If you're seeking a watch that combines quality, style, and exclusivity, Halios is a treasure waiting to be discovered.

6. Hegid | Redefining Versatility in Watchmaking

Enter the innovative world of Hegid, where watches transform with your style. This French brand stands out with its unique modular case system, allowing you to interchange dials and movements effortlessly. Inspired by the concept of "Capsules" and "Carrures," Hegid offers a fresh take on personalization and versatility. For those who crave a truly unique timepiece, Hegid is a revolutionary choice.

7. Lüm-Tec | Illuminate Your World

Discover the brilliance of Lüm-Tec, a family-run brand from Ohio that redefines visibility with its cutting-edge MVD technology. Known for their incredibly bright luminous dials, Lüm-Tec watches ensure you never lose track of time, even in the darkest conditions. Crafted with passion and precision, these timepieces are a testament to American ingenuity and are a must-have for any watch enthusiast seeking quality and innovation.

8. Maen | Swedish Sophistication at Its Finest

Experience the elegance of Maen, a Stockholm-based brand that beautifully merges vintage inspiration with modern sophistication. Born from a successful Kickstarter campaign, Maen quickly gained acclaim for its diverse lineup, including the Hudson Automatic and the Skymaster 38. With Swiss-made movements and stunning designs, Maen offers luxury at a fraction of the price, making it an essential addition to any watch collection.

9. Martenero | Vintage Vibes with a Modern Twist

Step into the world of Martenero, where vintage designs meet vibrant colors and reliable mechanics. Since 2014, Martenero has captivated watch enthusiasts with its unique take on classic styles. Perfect for those who love a splash of color and a nod to the past, these affordable yet high-quality timepieces are a must-have for any discerning collector.

10. Magrette | Dive into Distinction

Hailing from the City of Sails, Magrette offers a stunning array of dive-inspired watches that blend value with superior specs. With models like the Moana Pacific Waterman boasting 500m of water resistance and exquisite hand-engraved cases, Magrette provides luxury without the luxury price tag. If you're searching for a watch that makes a statement both in and out of the water, Magrette is your perfect match.

11. Massenalab | A Fusion of Heritage and Innovation

Dive into the world of Massena LAB, where vintage inspiration meets modern craftsmanship. Founded by industry veteran William Massena, this brand collaborates with independent watchmakers to create limited-edition timepieces. With designs influenced by iconic 1960s chronographs, Massena LAB offers timeless elegance and precision with their Uni-Racer collection. If you appreciate artistry and exclusivity, this brand is a must-see.

12. Melbourne Watch Co. | Craftsmanship from Down Under

Experience the charm of Melbourne Watch Co., an Australian brand renowned for its stylish, high-quality timepieces. Since its inception in 2013, it has become a microbrand leader, offering models with Swiss and Japanese movements at accessible prices. From classic designs to modern innovations, Melbourne Watch Co. provides something for every occasion. Discover why this brand has captured the hearts of watch enthusiasts worldwide.

13. Mercer | Timeless Elegance Meets Modern Craft

Explore Mercer Watch Co., a New Jersey-based boutique brand that delivers exceptional value with its diverse range of styles. From striking chronographs to elegant dive watches, Mercer combines Swiss and Japanese movements with beautifully crafted cases and dials. If you're looking for stylish, high-quality watches without breaking the bank, Mercer is a must-have on your list.

14. MKII | The Art of Homage

Discover MKII, a pioneer in the custom watch market, known for its modern vintage tool watches. Founded in 2002, MKII expertly crafts homage timepieces that pay tribute to iconic designs, offering impeccable build quality and American assembly. For those who appreciate the fusion of nostalgia and innovation, MKII provides a unique watch experience you can't miss.

15. Nodus | Where Vintage Meets Innovation

Dive into the world of Nodus, a Southern California brand that expertly merges vintage charm with modern innovation. Known for their meticulous design and assembly in Los Angeles, Nodus watches feature the unique NodeX module for easy bracelet adjustments. With models like the Retrospect and Sector Dive, Nodus offers timepieces that are both stylish and functional. If you appreciate a seamless blend of form and function, Nodus is a must-have for your collection.

16. NTH | Rugged Reliability Meets Vintage Style

Discover NTH, a standout microbrand offering rugged, reliable dive watches with a vintage flair. Known for their bold designs and affordability, NTH watches deliver exceptional value without compromising on quality. Perfect for everyday wear, these timepieces are crafted to meet the demands of any adventure. For those seeking a classic look with modern durability, NTH is an essential addition to your list.

17. Ocean Crawler | Dive into Vibrant Adventure

Discover Ocean Crawler, a standout American brand from Rochester, New York, known for its colorful, vintage-inspired dive watches. With meticulously regulated Swiss movements and robust designs, Ocean Crawler caters to both watch enthusiasts and active lifestyles. Models like the Core Diver and Dream Diver offer exceptional style and performance for under $1,000. If you're seeking a blend of heritage and innovation, Ocean Crawler is a must-see

18. Orion | A Fusion of Nostalgia and Modernity

Explore Orion, a brand founded by watchmaker Nick Harris, inspired by a vintage Omega Constellation. With a focus on no-nonsense tool watches, Orion adds playful '70s color and style to each piece. The latest highlight, the Hellcat, showcases unique dial options and solid craftsmanship. For those who love a mix of classic and contemporary, Orion offers watches that stand out in any collection.

19. Raven watches | Dive into Excellence

Discover the allure of Raven Watches, where precision meets passion. Established in 2008 by visionary Steve Laughlin, this Kansas-based brand has carved a niche for itself in the world of microbrands, offering exceptional adaptations of classic tool watch designs. The Trekker, with its vintage Submariner aesthetic and reliable Miyota movement, is a testament to Raven’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Made in limited quantities, each timepiece is a treasure for divers, collectors, and watch enthusiasts alike. If you crave a blend of heritage and modern functionality, Raven is a must-have on your wrist!

20. Reservoir | A New Era of Timekeeping

Step into the future with Reservoir Watches, where innovation meets artistry. Founded in 2015 by former banking professional François Moreau, this brand redefines traditional time display with its striking retrograde hand and jump-hour mechanism. Inspired by vintage measuring instruments, Reservoir’s unique dial design sets it apart from the crowd. Based in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, the brand combines high-quality Swiss movements with a distinct visual language that transcends timekeeping. Whether you're navigating land, water, or air, Reservoir watches are not just timepieces—they're a bold statement of individuality and style. Don’t miss the chance to elevate your collection with these extraordinary watches!

So... After reading this blog, what is your favourite mirco watch brand?