My Biggest Watch Relevation In 2023

Looking back on this past year, my biggest watch revelation is the world of micro brands. I have always favored major watch companies but this year resulted in an epiphany; small watch companies can produce as nice, if not nicer, watches.

The main reason for this? Attending Windup Watch Fair Chicago. Many of these micro companies tend to favor smaller wrists (are you listening Baltic?) but others produce watches that are well sized for my ample wrist.

Case in point: the Islander Watch Great wave diver:

A wonderful watch that no way comes close to breaking the bank and offers great value. About the only thing negative I can say about the watch is some edges on the bracelet and case can be a bit sharp. Otherwise it keeps good time, has an attractive dial and exceeds general quality levels for this price point.

Next up: Stella Watch Company Breslin Raspberry dial

A very small company established just in time for Covid to hit and am so glad they survived. Priced right at the magical $1k (US) the quality easily matches watches costing 50% more. Featuring the ubiquitous quick change bracelet/strap spring bars (pioneered by Michele I believe) makes interchanging these items easy. The good part is that Stella offers regular and long straps and the customer gets to choose which. Very good program. The finishing is very nice and the movements are well regulated to return a good rate result. Quite happy with this watch.

My wife also purchased a couple of watches, an Islander and a Duckworth Prestex which she is happy with. They are another company that impressed with their offerings. DW also was present and impressive but you only buy some many, right?

We had cause to visit Detroit for a Peter Gabriel concert and on the way there, we went through Cincinnati. Being my birth city, it was a requirement to drop by a local jeweler and check out offerings from Cincinnati Watch Company. Started by two young watch nerds, they recruited a talented watch maker to join them and the results are magnificent.

I did wind up purchasing a watch. The Cincinnatus Centurion with Burgundy dial.

I really like this watch, not because of the obvious nor that I lack many field watches in the collection, rather the truth is that the quality for the cost is outstanding. The finishing is right up there where you would expect it and the strap is has a good feel to it. They regulate their watches in 5 positions and include the timing results. What more could you ask for? PS: their packaging is environmentally friendly which you could ask for of other companies. I’ll undoubtedly be back for more.

So three watches, all fav’s, all from micro brands. All impressive. All unexpected.

Micro brands: a new and exciting world to explore.

What was your great watch revelation this past year?