Favorite Up & Coming Micro Brands?

The ones that have caught my eye recently are Studio Underdog, Atelier Wen, and Nodus

Less unique, but perhaps higher quality are Formex and Monta.

Zelos is killing it. They’re releasing more titanium Aurora field/GADA watches like tomorrow. If you’re into the unique dials they are well worth a look!

Atelier Wen. Mr Jones. Studio Underdog (but I'd like to see something new). Moels have potential. Geckota/Forzo.

And thank you Crunchers for introducing me to 47Zero, who I haven't tried yet but I like the designs.

Nodus, Zelos, Raven, Lorier, and Dan Henry.

Lorier is my favorite. Honorable mention to Islander

Big fan of Studio Underdog! I’m still warming up to Nodus

I typically gravitate towards divers and pilot watches, I like to keep it relatively simple

I actually discovered Zelos AFTER their Comet edition sold out. That’s the only design I’ve liked of theirs so far. I wish they would increase their inventory

Cincinnati Watch Company👀

I can definitely see their designs not being for everyone, personally I absolutely love them. It’s probably best they keep it limited or I would be broke in no time 😂

Lorier, Arken, Imperial Watch Co, Helm, Elliot Brown, Momentum, Dryden, Winfield, Bertucci, Tactical Frog, TC-9, Zelos amongst others.....😎🤘🏻🤙🏻

Top Left to Bottom Model Names

Arken Instrumentum, TC-9 Bronze Turtle, Zelos Hammerhead Gen I, Elliot Brown Holton Pro, Helm Komodo Gen I, Lorier Neptune SIII, Imperial Royalguard 200, Dryden Heartlander, Momentum Sea Quartz, Helm Miyako, Bertucci A2t, Helm Vanuatu Gen I, Tactical Frog FXD Gen 4, Winfield MT-1 Gen 1 Quartz

Some nice examples, here. Really digging that Heinrich and I'd forgotten I wanted to look into the Mitch Mason (such a cool hour hand flourish).

Straum and Direnzo if you want some high quality original designs

Yeah, that's a downside. I suppose their watches are too big for some people's tastes, I don't think they do many smaller ones.

In my collection; Raven, NFW, Ocean7, Smiths, Boldr,TUW Ruhla, RPaige, Boschett, Jublieon, Crepas, Helson, Maranez, & Undive.

NTH

Incredible specs to cost ratio

I like Monta, Islander, and Nodus right now.

I have the Monta Noble and Islander ISL-20 (gave to my brother for HS graduation). Nodus’ designs are calling my name!

Monta’s value, especially purchased used, is fantastic. Great bracelet micro-adjustment and case finishing. I bought it on a whim and never looked back.

From the more obscure camp, I like Gorilla and Rec.

Wow, I've heard of all the other brands mentioned here so far but your pics show a few brands I haven't seen before. What is the brand name of the blue racing striped and S logoed chronos you show?

I'll throw in Mkii in the thread but they are hardly up and coming (they might be one of the original micro brands in this new generation). All the other brands I was going to mention were mentioned (e.g. Helm, Nodus, Raven, etc.). Only thing holding me back is not being able to see them in person and try these watches on. Gotta get out to a Windup.

Yeah Yeah, it's a Straton!! He also owns Signum watches and some of those have the best lume in the business. Check um out, pretty sure Kyle's a cruncher too😎

I think for finishing the most ridiculous (as in very good for a microbrand) are..

Ginault. Best looking Rolex homages I ever saw imo.

and Pitzmann II.

Just... Chef's kiss. Perfection, looks-wise.

I really enjoy following along with Lorier's releases

Second hour and Dufrane

Not yet at least!

I can never find a Zelos for sale on their site. Too limited of a production. I do like their looks and price. I don’t have anything else with a Miyota movement. I love Formex and almost got one but splurged to get my Ball Engineer M Marvelight. Farer is another one on top of my list. I just think they are so bold looking.

I really like Farer but I’m afraid it might be too bold of a watch, I like to keep it simple and low key. I really liked the Zelos Comet but of course it sold out. Not a huge fan of much else of theirs unfortunately

Nice eclectic collection. All good choices.