Microbrands
With all of the eye candy out there in the microbrand space are there any that separate themselves as far as quality? It seems like anyone can put together a great looking exterior (look at all the practically indistinguishable clones/fakes for example) but how do I know that my $300-800 is paying for something that is actually quality under the hood? Has anyone put together a table comparing the micro brands on price, movement, other quality measures (reliability, accuracy, water resistance, Power reserve etc.)?
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Frank
Welcome to my WatchCrunch profile.
New Orleans, LA, USA
Member since
Last active: 3 hrs ago
6.75” / 17.15 cm
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there is no list but you can say most preferred microbrands on watchcrunch posts are generally good like lorier, farer, traska, smiths, kurono tokyo etc.
Too many microbrands out there. Five pop up, five close shop.
But you could be the first if you wanted.
Just today I searched for it: https://teddybaldassarre.com/blogs/watches/microbrand-watches-complete-guide
I feel like the microbrand market is getting quite competitive and anyone just making a generic not so well made watch these days won’t get very far. That’s a nice selection you’ve got there here’s my current collection of microbrands.
The stand outs use the higher priced and newer watch movements or the Swiss movements. All the others just grind out the older NH3x or Miyota 8xxx series for the quick buck using Ali parts.
I can personally attest to the very high quality of Jack Mason (Strat-o-timer) and Armida (A1-45MM ETA); both companies regulate all their watches prior to shipment and are held in high regard by many enthusiasts.
I feel like the microbrand market is getting quite competitive and anyone just making a generic not so well made watch these days won’t get very far. That’s a nice selection you’ve got there here’s my current collection of microbrands.
Sorry, that picture was just taken from google search for " microbrands" not my collection. I'm too afraid to pull the trigger.
Check out Gavox. Full disclosure I own a Longitude and I’m a huge fan.
I found this article that has "Best" watch under 500 and it lists the movements and other specs. Although these aren't all microbrands its still a good reference.
Just today I searched for it: https://teddybaldassarre.com/blogs/watches/microbrand-watches-complete-guide
Thanks. It's a good starting place but I wish there was more meat in the article. I may just have to do the leg work myself.
Thanks. It's a good starting place but I wish there was more meat in the article. I may just have to do the leg work myself.
He wouldn't recommend them if they weren't worth it. But you're right - microbrands are for those who know. You get value, but you have to put in the research.
Tusenö is slightly on the higher side of the price spectrum for a micro brand but they seem to offer great quality and Swiss movements. I quite like their designs, especially their "Windseeker".
These are my Microbrand watches. All established with distinct styles and missions. Melbourne and Hemel are in the range of 750- 800$Can.
Melbourne Portsea triple calendar Australian Microbrand.
Hemel Air Wing chronograph American Microbrand
Kingsbury Rendition a Canadian Microbrand well built and inexpensive.
Enjoy your search and research!🌄 I don't buy watches now but still fascinated.😅
Check out The Microbrand Watch Store online. I purchased my Melbourne Portsea and my Hemel Air Wing from them. They regulate all watches before they ship. Photos information on brands specifications. And why they decided to Carry each individual watch.
Had to pay hefty tariffs bringing them into Canada though.😒
My research hasn't failed me yet. As far as watches go.😊