The Best Microbrand Watches Worth Your Time

Generally when we’re talking about a microbrand watch we’re talking about a timepiece crafted by a smaller, independent brand in much smaller quantities compared to more global companies. This often means that you can get a timepiece that features a unique design or one that offers high quality features for a reasonable price or (if you’re lucky) both. That’s why we’ve created this list of the best microbrand watches we’ve ever reviewed – to highlight those microbrands that are doing things right.

The timepieces below exemplify what makes independent watchmaking so special not just for watch collectors but also for the art of horology. As you can imagine we’re always reviewing new timepieces, so certainly expect this list to grow. However, if there are any specific watches you’d like us to consider for this list, please let us know in the comments below.

Redwood Watches Tactical V2 Solar

Headquarters:	Montreal, Canada
Case Size:	40mm x 48mm x 11.2
Movement:	Epson VS17 (Solar Quartz Movement)
Battery Life:	6 Months
Crystal:	Sapphire Crystal
Price Range:	$189

Ever since their debut in 2014, Redwood Watches has carved out a unique niche by merging military-grade durability with versatile designs that feel equally at home in an outdoor adventure or a casual setting. This Canadian microbrand has a knack for reimagining traditional mil-spec watches while offering features typically reserved for higher price points. After we were able to review the Tactical V2 Steal (solar quartz version) in person, we absolutely understood what this brand was all about. Built to MIL-W-22176A specs, the 40mm case and slim 11.2mm profile provided a comfortable fit, while the 20mm Black Ribbed Nylon strap impressed our team with its quality and adaptability – we even had fun using the strap on other timepieces in our collections.

Operating the 120-click bezel was a pleasure, though the small crown took some getting used to since it was sometimes hard to get a good grip on. The watch’s rugged, all-black aesthetic emphasizes the timepiece’s functionality which is also emphasized by the highly legible lume, 200m water resistance, and sapphire crystal.

But what truly sets the Tactical V2 apart is its solar-powered Epson VS17 movement, combining maintenance-free reliability with precise timekeeping, making it an ideal daily companion. But the main reason we decided to include this watch here is because of its price point of $189, which is an incredible price for what you’re getting. Be sure to explore the Redwood Watches site for more info on their collection. Plus, you can read more about our hands-on experience with the Tactical V2 in our hands-on review.

Dryden Chrono Diver

Headquarters:	Kansas City, Kansas
Case Size:	42mm x 49mm x 13.5mm
Movement:	Seiko Mechaquartz VK63 (Hybrid Quartz Movement)
Power Reserve:	36 Months
Crystal:	Double Dome Sapphire Crystal
Price Range:	$279 – $450

Dryden Watch Co. is a U.S.-based microbrand known for its commitment to versatile, well-crafted designs that cater to a wide range of styles and occasions. Their focus on quality assembly and thoughtful color combinations has made them a favorite among enthusiasts seeking approachable yet refined timepieces for incredibly affordable prices. The first watch of theirs we ever reviewed still remains a favorite among our team: The Chrono Diver. It hits a microbrand watch sweet spot with a 42mm case and balanced 12mm thick profile that wears comfortably but still commands attention (thanks to its bold, flat bezel).

While on the wrist we appreciated the brushed stainless steel case, accented with polished bevels that strikes a balance between subtlety and flair. All of this pairs excellently with the very legible 60-click anodized aluminum bezel. The “Steel Blue” reverse panda dial pulls together vintage charm and modern sensibility, complete with applied markers, a tachymeter scale, and Swiss Superluminova BGW9.

Powered by the reliable Seiko Mechaquartz VK63, it marries quartz precision with the satisfying click of a mechanical chronograph. Now, the only issue we had during our time with the watch is that on our particular model, the hands were overly-polished and reflective, which negatively impacted legibility. But that was only during very specific circumstances. The Chrono Diver is still easily one of the most underrated Mechaquartz timepieces available today – especially at a price point ranging from $250 – $279 on their official site. You can also learn more about our experience with the Chrono Diver in our hands-on review.

Dan Henry 1964 Gran Turismo Chronograph

Headquarters:	U.S.
Case Size:	38mm x 44.7mm x 12.9mm
Movement:	Seiko Mechaquartz VK63 (Hybrid Quartz Movement)
Batter Life:	36 Months
Crystal:	Acrylic Crystal
Price Range:	$300

Dan Henry is one of the most prolific vintage watch collectors on earth. And like most passionate enthusiasts, he wanted a way to share his passion for vintage watches with more people – thus Dan Henry Watches was born as a microbrand to bring affordable versions of vintage iconic watch designs to consumers all over the world. One of the best releases he’s ever done is the Dan Henry 1964 Gran Turismo Chronograph.

The Evil Panda dial version that our team reviewed highlights crisp contrasting details in its 3-6-9 subdial layout, with blue chemically treated chronograph hands adding a touch of elegance without overdoing it. Plus, we found the 38mm diameter and 44.7mm lug-to-lug distance to be an ideal and comfortable size for a variety of wrist sizes (especially thanks to the angled lugs). Rather than a standalone quartz or mechanical movement, the 1964 Gran Turismo features the hybrid VK63 Mechaquartz movement, which delivers a tactical chronograph pusher experience while being powered by a quartz battery. This movement also allows the watch to also remain affordable, which is something that we greatly appreciated.

While 19mm beads of rice bracelet adds a vintage-inspired aesthetic, it would have benefitted from quick-release spring bars to make strap changes more seamless. However, with a price of just $300 and included accessories like a watch roll and an additional leather strap, there is much more good outweighing any minor criticisms. Please explore all the dial varieties available directly on the Dan Henry Watches site and also be sure to check out our full, hands-on review on the 1964 Gran Turismo Chronograph.

Lorier Hydra

Headquarters:	New York City
Case Size:	39mm x 48mm x 12mm
Movement:	Seiko NH35 (Automatic Movement)
Power Reserve:	41 Hours
Crystal:	Domed Acrylic Crystal
Price:	$399 – $699

When I first came across Lorier, I was struck by their philosophy of creating versatile, vintage-inspired watches for people who actually wear their timepieces daily. Founded by a husband-and-wife team, their approach blends an appreciation for classic designs with practical modern touches and the Hydra is an excellent example of that philosophy. During the course of our team’s review of the Lorier Hydra, we immediately appreciated the 39mm case and balanced vintage proportions. Even more noteworthy to us was how well the brushed steel of the case hides the dings and scrapes of typical wear, reinforcing its everyday practicality.

Powered by the reliable Seiko NH35A movement, the Hydra runs within a tolerance that’s acceptable for daily use. Although we tested two different watches in the collection and their accuracy wasn’t consistent (we checked with the timegrapher), however this isn’t a deal breaker and there’s more good outweighing anything else for the watch. The domed plexiglass crystal distorts reflections like a vintage photo filter that refuses to take itself too seriously, giving the dial an almost enamel-like depth – though it can make telling the time at certain angles tricky.

The Lorier Hydra’s fully articulating bracelet prioritizes both comfort and usability for everyday wear. On the wrist, our team found that it wore like a love letter to mid-century divers, channeling the charm of old Omegas and Seikos with gilt accents, BGW9 lume, and a 200m water resistance rating. While the bezel and crown can be tricky to grip, these quirks feel forgivable in a watch that’s as much about character as functionality. Prices for the Hydra vary from $399 to $699 depending on the model you’re looking at, so we encourage you to explore the Lorier site to see more. We also have an in-depth review if you’d like to see more hands-on photos and experience notes.

Gavox Roads Chronograph

Headquarters:	Belgium
Case Size:	41mm x 51mm x 12mm
Movement:	Ronda 5130D (Quartz Movement)
Battery Life:	48 Months
Crystal:	Sapphire Crystal
Price Range:	$450 – $575

The Gavox Roads Chronograph is an unapologetically unique creation from one of the few microbrands that seems to design watches for themselves rather than the masses. Belgium-based Gavox Watches was founded by Michael Happé purely as an outlet for him to create watches that were specially significant to his personal story and tastes – case and point, the Roads collection is designed as an ode to the road trip. Each model in the collection is inspired by a different iconic long-distance drive. We were able to have some hands-on time with the blue dial which commemorates the Atlantic Road in Norway and the white dial which commemorates the Icefields Parkway in Canada.

Featuring a 41mm brushed stainless steel case, sapphire crystal, and an aluminum dive bezel, our team found that the Roads had a bold wrist presence but still felt incredibly balanced thanks to the clever proportions of the case. Powered by the Ronda 5130D quartz movement, it offers practical features like an analog alarm and chronograph totalizer that make it a real tool for timing everything from driving shifts to roadside snack stops. The steel bracelet is both sturdy and refined, though the additional leather strap offers a cooler option for humid days.

We absolutely encourage you to explore Gavox’s site to see all the Roads models available – prices on the site are in Euros but will range from $450 – $575 USD depending on the model. We also have a full, hands-on review for you to check out if you’d like to read more unique insights. Michael Happé has also been a guest on our podcast if you’d like to learn more about the magic behind the microbrand.

Baltic Aquascaphe

Headquarters:	France
Case Size:	39mm x 47mm x 11m
Movement:	Miyota 9039 (Automatic Movement)
Power Reserve:	42 Hours
Crystal:	Double Dome Sapphire Crystal
Price Range:	$540 – $585

Baltic Watches is a French microbrand that has earned our team’s respect as a watchmaker that truly understands how to marry vintage-inspired designs with modern practicality. During our hands-on review of the Baltic Aquascaphe, we were particularly drawn to how well the microbrand watch perfectly captures the charm of an earlier era in horology, yet doesn’t rely on replicating a specific model.

By utilizing timeless proportions and classic contouring, the 38mm stainless steel case is balanced and compact, creating an incredible wearing experience. The beads of rice bracelet was a bit surprising since it’s actually quite comfortable and finished to a high degree – this is generally pretty unusual with other beads of rice bracelets on microbrand watches. The hybrid sandwich dial utilizes a clever mix of luminescent depth and textured details creating a very visually pleasing presentation.

Powered by the Miyota 9039, it skips the unnecessary phantom date click you’ve encountered on other movements which speaks well to Baltic’s attention to detail. However, if you’re someone who prefers a date complication, you may find its absence noticeable. Compared to earlier Baltic models like the Bicompax 001, the Aquascaphe showcases the brand’s growth with a more refined movement, an elevated dial design, and the push to create a reliable dive watch. Details like the drilled lugs, lumed sapphire bezel for better underwater readability, and double-domed crystal highlight thoughtful design, and the 200m water resistance reassured our review team this watch is ready for anything.

Priced between $540 – $585 USD (the official site has the pricing in Euros), the Aquascaphe delivers far more than you’d expect, combining craftsmanship and passion into one excellent package. Be sure to read our full hands-on review for more unique photos and personal insights on the wearing experience.

Traska Freediver

Headquarters:	Jacksonville Beach, FL
Case Size:	40mm x 48mm x 10.5mm
Movement:	Miyota 9039 (Automatic Movement)
Power Reserve:	42 Hours
Crystal:	Double Domed Sapphire Crystal
Price Range:	$685

Microbrands like Traska shine by combining practicality with creativity, crafting watches that feel personal rather than churned out by the dozen. Known for their focus on durability and simplicity, Traska has carved out a niche that bridges the gap between functional tool watches and stylish everyday wear. The Freediver fits right in with this approach, offering a compact 40mm case and 48mm lug-to-lug length that cater to both smaller and larger wrists.

Its proprietary 1,500 HV scratch-resistant coating and drilled lugs add durability and convenience that divers and casual users alike will appreciate. While we reviewed the watch we were very impressed by how the mint dial shifted between soothing pastel and bold vibrancy, making it both practical and uniquely stylish. Paired with lumed sword hands and a pole-spear seconds hand, the Freediver offers excellent legibility under any lighting conditions. The sturdy oyster-style bracelet has solid links and a clasp with perlage finishing, offering comfort and build quality that rival more expensive options. While the Freediver that we reviewed was powered by the NH38, newer versions of the Freediver use the Miyota 9039, which is an even higher quality movement and an excellent choice by Traska.

For $685, it’s a versatile, well-rounded piece that’s equally at home in your suitcase or on your wrist, making it an excellent choice for adventurers and collectors alike. Traska also offers their collections in small batches, so availability can sometimes be an issue. The best way to make sure you stay aware of their stock and offerings is to visit their official site and sign up for notifications. Be sure to also read our full hands-on review if you’d like to see more unique insights and photos.

Halios Seaforth

Headquarters:	Vancouver, Canada
Case Size:	41mm x 46.5mm x 12mm
Movement:	Sellita SW200-1 (Automatic Movement)
Power Reserve:	38 Hours
Crystal:	Double Domed Sapphire Crystal
Price Range:	$735 – $775

Halios Watches has carved out a dedicated and loyal following by crafting pieces that prioritize versatility and precision over unnecessary frills. Founded in 2009 by Jason Lim in Vancouver, Canada, each timepiece is the result of meticulous detail scrutiny, durability testing, and design refinement – so much so that Halios often has issues keeping up with their demand. Hands-down their most iconic and successful release is the Seaforth, which showcases a 41mm stainless with sharp, angular lugs and a vintage-style box sapphire crystal.

The version that we reviewed had the 120-click 12-hour bezel, which served as a dual-time tracker during a tropical excursion in Honduras. During the course of wearing the watch in humid environments and snorkeling in saltwater, it exceeded our team’s expectations in terms of comfort, wearability, and reliability thanks to the 47mm lug to lug measurement and 200m of water resistance.

Our review focused on the sunburst blue dial version, which in person elegantly shifts between rich navy and vibrant teal in dynamic light. Plus, the C3 SuperLuminova filled markers supported strong legibility in a variety of lighting conditions during the excursion. Really the largest drawbacks not just for the Seaforth but for any Halios model is the scare limitability. When models do become available, they’re often snatched up quite quickly. That’s why we encourage you to visit the official Halios site and sign up for notifications on new re-stocks and model releases. Plus please enjoy reading our full hands-on review for more real world takes on the Seaforth.

Nodus Contrail GMT

Headquarters:	Los Angeles, California
Case Size:	40.5mm x 46.6mm x 11.8mm
Movement:	Miyota 9075 (Automatic Movement)
Power Reserve:	42 Hours
Crystal:	Sapphire Crystal
Price Range:	$825

Nodus has earned a reputation among enthusiasts as one of the few microbrands to combine meticulous in-house regulation with a design ethos rooted in practical elegance – it’s one of those effects where their design language is so strong, you can spot a Nodus timepiece from across the room. For us, the Contrail GMT really embodied that ideal. Featuring a Miyota 9075 “true” flyer GMT, the Contrail GMT is an extremely comfortable and capable microbrand watch with a 40.5mm case diameter, 46.6mm lug-to-lug span, and just 11.8mm in thickness.

For those out there who are GMT enthusiasts, you’ll appreciate the 48-click, bi-directional 24-hour sapphire bezel with a black/grey AM/PM scale. Among all the microbrand GMT watches that we’ve reviewed over the years, very few had that level of functionality-detail built into their design.
We reviewed the Laguna dial version which featured a sandy-gold texture with BGW9 lume and black chapter ring just under the bezel. The overall effect was something both visually warm and functional.

For our team, the standout feature of the watch was how the tapered H-link bracelet paired with the proprietary NodeX™ Clasp, offering effortless on-the-fly adjustments even during a busy day on the go. It’s worth mentioning that at 40.5mm in diameter with a rotating bezel, the actual amount of space on the dial is small, which can be a difficult adjustment for those who are used to larger dial watches.

The Contrail is available for $825 directly on the official Nodus site – you should check out the different dial options in case this Laguna variation doesn’t speak to you. You can also read our full hands-on review to learn even more about our experience with this watch.

Christopher Ward The Twelve

Headquarters:	United Kingdom
Case Size:	36mm x 40.8mm x 9.95mm
Movement:	Sellita SW300-1 (Automatic Movement)
Power Reserve:	56 Hours
Crystal:	Sapphire
Price Range:	$1225 – $1895

Christopher Ward has built its reputation as one of the most compelling independent brands in modern watchmaking. Known for delivering Swiss-made quality at a fraction of the cost expected from legacy brands, the company continually pushes boundaries in both design and accessibility on their products with their innovative direct-to-consumer approach. Looking back at the whole history of the brand, our review team felt that the Christopher Ward The Twelve in 36mm titanium was truly a strong tipping point amongst the timeline of their offerings. Featuring a sleek, thin 8.95mm case height, The Twelve feels solid enough for everyday use but features an incredible level of precision fit and finish to be your special occasion watch as well (should you so choose).

While on the wrist, we found the angular case to be both bold and balanced due to the interplay between the beveled edges as well as the polished and matte finishes. Meanwhile, the Lagoon Blue ombre dial creates a dynamic, almost mesmerizing effect as light shifts across it. The only downside we noted during testing though was that legibility can occasionally be difficult in direct sunlight.

With a COSC-certified Sellita SW300 movement, a 55-hour power reserve, and a competitive $1,895 price point (or $1,225 for the stainless steel version), this is a no-nonsense contender for anyone craving the integrated bracelet trend without stepping into extravagance. Check out all the dial varieties and sizes available on the Christopher Ward site. We also have a full hands-on video review if you’d like to see a really detailed breakdown of an excellent microbrand watch.

Farer Roché II World Timer

Headquarters:	London, United Kingdom
Case Size:	39mm x 45mm x 11mm
Movement:	Sellita SW330-1 ‘Elaboré’ (Automatic Movement)
Power Reserve:	50 Hours
Crystal:	Domed Sapphire Crystal
Price Range:	$1,695 – $1880

British Microbrand Farer has been making exceptional timepieces since 2015. Known for blending British creativity with Swiss precision, Farer has defined their design vision by crafting pieces that seamlessly combine daring, vibrant designs with exceptional quality (without it feeling gimmicky). Amongst Farer’s offerings, the Roché II World Timer strikes the perfect balance between all facets of the brand’s design ethos. The timepiece features a 39mm stainless steel case that balances wrist presence with comfort, alongside a midnight blue Clous de Paris guilloché dial accented by luminous raised markers for readability.

Powered by a customized Sellita SW330-1 movement with a 24-hour rotating disc, the Roché II delivers a clever twist on traditional world timer functionality by simplifying its usage. While the Roché II’s price may seem steep for some considering a microbrand, the thoughtful design and premium features justify the investment for those drawn to world timers. Whether paired with its supple leather strap or sturdy bracelet, we found that this microbrand watch offers versatility, elegance, boldness, and horological interest in equal measure.

Priced at $1,695 on leather or $1,880 with the bracelet on the official site, it’s an exceptional entry into Swiss-made world timers for someone that’s looking for something a bit more special than normal. Be sure to check out our full hands-on review for more details and insights.

Monta Skyquest GMT

Headquarters:	Missouri, U.S.
Case Size:	40.7mm x 47.4mm x 11.8mm
Movement:	Sellita SW330-2 (Automatic Movement)
Power Reserve:	56 Hours
Crystal:	Sapphire Crystal
Price Range:	$2,435

Monta has established itself as one of the leading microbrands by combining Swiss-made precision, exceptional finishing, and thoughtful design choices that rival legacy brands. Known for features like their industry-leading bracelet design, robust yet serviceable Sellita movements, and meticulous attention to detail, Monta consistently punches above its weight in delivering watches that feel premium while also truly carving their own niche in the microbrand watch scene.

Of all their releases over the years, the Skyquest GMT is the one that will always be a timepiece that we recommend. When you first handle a Monta you’ll immediately feel the difference in the fit and finish of the case detailing, which is a central part of the luxurious feel of the Skyquest GMT’s 40.7mm case. But what we were really drawn to during our testing of the watch was the aluminum bezel, which is technically a move away from the ceramic bezel on the previous generation of the Skyquest. The aluminum bezel is larger, more legible, and quite frankly much more aesthetically pleasing that we expected.

The matte black dial, paired with bold rhodium-plated sword hands, avoids clutter by dropping the old internal 24-hour scale from the previous generation, which our team felt was the right call. The bracelet here is also one of the most comfortable wearing experiences we’ve ever had, but that’s not surprising since Monta is truly in a league of their own as far as bracelet design is concerned. The secret of the bracelet is the fully articulated links, unique quick adjust clasp, and high quality fit and finish of the overall design. Plus, the Skyquest GMT is powered by the Swiss Sellita SW330-2 automatic movement, which features a called GMT function that’s simple to use and effective.

Available directly from Monta for $2,435 this is certainly not the most affordable microbrand watch however we do believe it is one of the pinnacles of what an independent microbrand can aspire to be. No gimmicks or trend chasing – these are just timelessly designed timepieces that are meticulously crafted to give you as elevated of a wearing experience as possible. If you get the opportunity to check the Monta Skyquest GMT out in person at a watch fair or a local watch meetup, we encourage you to do so. In the meantime though feel free to read our detailed, hands-on review for more personal insights and unique photos.

AnOrdain Model 1

Headquarters:	Glasgow, Scotland
Case Size:	38mm x 46mm x 11mm
Movement:	Sellita SW200-1 (Automatic Movement)
Power Reserve:	38 Hours
Crystal:	Double Domed Sapphire Crystal
Price Range:	$2656 – $3051

AnOrdain is a small but incredibly remarkable microbrand from Glasgow that creates vitreous enamel dials blending artistry and technical expertise. Their first release remains to this day one of their bests: The Model 1. We had the pleasure of reviewing the Model 1 pink dial variant which had a surface texture resembling eggshell under certain light angles, offering a calming aesthetic that made it a joy to glance at throughout the day.

At 38mm wide and 11mm tall, the case is hardened to 800 Vickers, providing excellent durability without necessarily sacrificing comfort. Over the course of our review, we found the curved lugs and slim proportions of the case ensure the Model 1 fits easily on a variety of wrist sizes, even under most shirt cuffs. The skeletonized hands keep the enamel dial as the centerpiece while maintaining easy time reading, and the double-domed sapphire crystal provides a clear view without distracting reflections.

While wearing the watch we did notice that the height of the case with the smaller case diameter could feel slightly disproportionate on smaller wrists depending on how tight (or not tight) you opt to wear your watch. Plus, some may find the crown a bit difficult to grip and wind. But these are minor trade-offs for such a unique piece. The anOrdain Model 1 we reviewed also features the incredibly reliable Sellita SW200-1 automatic movement, which can be viewed through the exhibition caseback.

Anytime a microbrand watch can demonstrate unique artistry and a design vision all their own, it merits our attention. If you’re curious to learn more about how anOrdain makes their dials, they have a watchmaking section on their site – plus while you’re there you can explore the different Model 1 dial options available. Feel free to also explore our hands-on review to read more about what it was like wearing this watch.