The World's 25 Best Microbrands!

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My goodness, what a whopper! And having said that, it could have easily been a Top 50! What do you think? Did I miss your favourite? Long Live Microbrand Watches! Cheers, Jody

[@direnzowatches]

Dear Jody, Thank you so much for mentioning my small brand among this great group of Micros! As you said, I think we all pour our heart and soul into creating something unique, hoping our passion resonates with someone out there who will enjoy our creations as much as we do. Thank you once again for supporting us Micros. Sergio

[@thesolver1970]

that green wandering star is on my list!

[@Android_MT1983]

It surely resonate with me at least. Keep up the good work and try to stock more watches 😂

[@K1ngfunK]

Sergio, I eyed buying a DRZ-04 Mondial for literally *years* after watching Jody's review of it and being mesmerized by the bowled dial and overall stunning design. I finally was able to pick one up second-hand, and it has remained the only watch that I've kept through a lot of ups and downs in life, because I just know that literally nothing could ever replace it. Thank you for bringing such stunning-yet-clean and consistent watch designs to the market at an affordable (for Swiss!) price.

[@direnzowatches]

@@K1ngfunK that’s very kind of you! Thank you for sharing your experience and glad to know you are enjoying it 😃

[@dl703]

Fantastic video, Jody! Appreciate the effort for keeping the watch community alive.

[@islandwatch]

Holy smokes!!!!! Thanks so much, Jody!

[@Enemy_of_the_State_0351]

Hi, Marc. I just bought one of your Casio Duro bracelets, and it is absolutely awesome. I feel like it makes the watch and worth every penny. Thanks!

[@G-rig6969]

Agreed, I recommend these over Uncle, bit better pricing and loyalty. Have bought two of your jube bracelets for Orient and Citizen BN Eco-Drive, makes the watches much more premium and what they should be. Keep up the good work!!

[@jmand63]

Well deserved Marc. Congratulations! Marc knows exactly what the customers want. Nobody can be disappointed with his vision, accomplishments, and the quality of his performance. With the best price/performance ratio.

[@benheadley6214]

Grabbed the LumeShot x Islander a couple years back (along with some big brand watches from Island) and I couldn’t be happier with it. Planning another Islander soon

[@greamespens1460]

Hi Marc

[@paultomaszewski1964]

Surprised Wise wasn't mentioned, They make a bunch of different styles and you can semi custom order certain models. Have the Hitman 66 SE and it's a nice watch.

[@jeffone]

I second that. I was disappointed in the miss on Wise. They have some creative designs and build quality pieces.

[@timedwards8171]

The new name of my band Lizard man and the Nepo babies

[@nates78]

I agree, My Wise Adamascus is on my wrist the most. Love it and I will be getting more.

[@kickstothehead3705]

I went back and skimmed it to see must be bad blood because they are top 10 easy

[@lordirek1]

The most important qualifier was he had to have reviewed a model from the brand before, has he reviewed a Wise before? If not, it explains leaving it off. I genuinely don't know if he has, just know that's a reason a lot of favorites could have been left out.

[@mdh202]

Not the first here to say Lorier deserves a look at on the channel, but I’m loving my Hyperion GMT with the traveler’s Miyota 9075. All my other watches have been gathering dust in the cupboard-I can’t stop wearing the Lorier!

[@gamestar8180]

Loving the Hydra S3!

[@lanky-x782]

My falcon III is on my wrist the most in the year I've had it. Just picked up the Astra when it restocked. Really does feel like a new 1960's sports watch.

[@richardb22]

The Neptune does it for me.

[@stephenmasciocchi1411]

Really enjoy my Zephyr! They call it a dress watch, but I put mine on a mesh bracelet and it works well for daily wear.

[@JohnnyBagvieGolf]

I have the Skyward II with the C125 and loooove it.

[@Nylatt]

Vaer is making some really nice pieces at great prices. The american quartz movement used in some of their watches is fantastic.

[@Ascendsean35]

I bought their DS4 solar Diver (came with a rubber and nylon strap) 6 months ago for $199. Easily one of the best deals and watches I've ever bought. THey already shot up a bit in price since then. But I get lots of compliments on it and the time is always perfect and can just throw it on with the solar movement. Customer service is great. highly recommend them.

[@rogerreynolds7292]

I love my DS4. Vaer should be on the list for sure.

[@bani_niba]

Solar divers aren't produced enough. Vaer makes a very nice version.

[@halfsourlizard9319]

I've own some rather nice watches, and I bought a Vaer recently and have been extremely impressed; numerous friends and watch nerds have asked to have a look.

[@Ascendsean35]

@@bani_niba yeah I was on the “automatic train” for a while. And I get why people like them. But purely for convenience sakes I’ve really been drawn back to solar. I don’t want to have a collection and have to reset all the functions Everytime I want to wear a different watch. Just want to grab it and go. No worries for service or anything either. If I buy a really nice watch that I could pass down. Then sure I’ll buy a nice automatic

[@uncles2000]

I only wear grass fed, free range, small batch, Micro Brands, that give 2.89% of their profits to Horologists Without Borders.

[@thegorn]

*sips soy latte*

[@thompsonterry4804]

Only if they were assembled by Mayan sun-god worshipping organic yogis

[@halfsourlizard9319]

Mmm, grass-fed dry-aged watches are so yummy!

[@brucecoleman7412]

Hi Jody! A micro from Germany that should have been mentioned is Damasko. My friend bought one from Mark at LIW about a month ago. Case made of scratch resistant Submarine Steel with a Swiss movement. If you want a bracelet, you have to buy it separately. That has to be the most difficult changeover I’ve ever done. The bracelet and clasp are very unique. It almost completely invisible when on wrist. It is put together with very tiny torx head screws that are anti magnetic. If you drop one, it’s gone forever. I would highly suggest to put the bracelet in a box or plastic bag before removing any screws. I covered a very large area of my floor with duct tape after trying other methods to find it. No luck. Awesome watch!

[@jayck6736]

Love Damasko but I don't think they are considered as a Microbrand?!

[@EEE_MMM]

@@jayck6736 I've never ever heard anyone mention the brand in anything that has to do with microbrands anyway. I don't know why they should belong on a list like this. I completely agree with you.

[@DanGaskell]

Another micro that needs attention is Henry Archer.

[@PH-kl5qq]

Agreed...considering my 2nd

[@robertnorth1681]

Yes, love my HA. I got the glacier blue and it absolutely glows in the light. Unlike any of my more staid watches and summer perfect.

[@DanGaskell]

@@robertnorth1681 How is it on alternative straps?

[@robertnorth1681]

@@DanGaskell To be honest, I’m still in a honeymoon phase with the bracelet. But I would imagine it would wear fine on rubber. I’m partial to tropic. I’ve just not ever gotten into NATO, though I prefer a Zulu.

[@ohhenry2]

Great list! Lorier is a microbrand that deserves representation on it. I realize that you haven't yet reviewed one, Jody, but once you do, I think you'll agree that it belongs. Thanks for all the good work!

[@JustOneMoreWatch]

Yes! Otherwise Lorier definitely worthy of a place. Cheers!

[@SecondHourWatches]

Thank you for the mention, Jody. We're thrilled to be included ❤

[@peterfekete2636]

Very nice watches, If the diver Gin Clear MkII would be a tad bigger like 42 mm or 43 I would gladly buy one Tomorrow. I do understand the production methods. Keep it up you doing a good work on the design and quality.

[@jamison199]

Some of my favorites are Signum (dive), Spinnaker (dive), Bertucci (field), Marathon (military), Lum-Tec (military and field), and AVI-8 (pilot) . Each have their own style and won’t break the bank.

[@unknownriderinbound]

Things I've learned from the comments: 1) Every microbrand watch belongs in the top 25.

[@runningawayvagabond5876]

Exactly. There are what, a quadrillian different micro's out there but each and every one of them should be included in a list of 25. SMH.

[@kpinto16]

Dan Henry has some great vintage styles designed by the collecter himself. Pretty solid spec on all of his pieces for the price

[@ThrupleQuashimodo]

I love this video. A lot of creators talk microbrands, but seeing them compiled this way is brilliant. And don't downplay the Erebus. They are stunning.

[@onewatchjustisntenough]

Really surprised Phoibos wasn't mentioned. They make excellent super high quality watches.

[@mikesawtell9184]

Great divers for the money. And very well finished!

[@jkratoville]

Agreed. Was actually expecting a mention as it was Jody's review that convinced me to buy one.

[@thegorn]

"I'm surprised [insert favourite obscure brand] wasn't included"

[@AttentionDeficitHobbyDisorder]

Love my Khuraburi! Was on the wait-list for 2 years, and it was worth it! As soon as it came in, I jumped on the list for the Vanuatu Titanium!

[@Owls-Hickokko]

Just ordered a Meraud Bonaire - Moss Green , stunning watch.

[@pierremclean8504]

Jody, I am so happy you are re- focusing on Microbrands… it seems that lately most watch reviewers are constantly reviewing AliExpress brands and endless sales. From an audience perspective, they are starting to all blend in and quite honestly, it is becoming highly repetitive. More microbrands content means focusing on brands that are bringing creativity to the industry (instead of endless clomages!?) . Keep the flame alive!👍

[@BR81-iv6lt]

Those people have an addiction to Ali express, its stupid with their hauls, time for another watch, cough cough..😂

[@arshilledore]

Preach!

[@NicholasSadlier]

Agreed - I'm rather tired of many of the other watch KZbinrs posting AliExpress 'top tens' etc, not just occasionally (which is absolutely fine), but every day of the week (sale or no sale) and twice on Tuesdays!

[@pierremclean8504]

@@NicholasSadlier one of the appeal of Microbrands is rarity/excusivity/small production runs… AliExpress brands are overexposed and keep pumping out versions after versions. While some of the stuff maybe appealing, after awhile you feel like it’s being pushed and mass marketed!?!

[@AdAce21]

Zelos, WISE, MAEN, and Nodus are my absolute favorites. These brands all make fantastic watches that punch way above their price range. How did WISE not make the list?!?! The AD7 is incredible!

[@timefliesby-jleo474]

How did Lorier not make it? Hahaha

[@AdAce21]

@@timefliesby-jleo474 a great qu! Maybe Jody's never reviewed one?

[@vktravellog1242]

I am so glad you mentioned Islander! They are great watches from a great owner

[@north_aviator2691]

Speaking of Yema, they recently released a beautiful 40 mm stainless steel Flygraph Bi-compax chronograph equipped with Seiko's VK61 meca-quartz caliber and hesalite glass. As it was made in collaboration with the French Air Force, the watch contains field and flieger watch DNA and, in my opinion, looks incredible for the price of €429 at which it is being sold. Interestingly, no one has reviewed it yet, so there's an opportunity for Jody to rectify this situation.

[@AtheistOrphan]

That sounds right up my street, I’ll check it out. Thank you.

[@thekwebster]

Héron. Although they only have a pair of watches in their catalog as a young microbrand, they knocked the Marinor out of the park and quality speaks for itself. (Especially when compared to other divers from notable microbrands with similar specs and price point).

[@darkeye77]

I genuinely wish I had kickstarted a Marinor. It looks amazing.

[@Snowmunkee]

Love my Xeric Trappist moonphase. Just bonkers enough to make me smile without making me confused

[@andrewhannam.]

Love my Baltic Aquascaphe gmt, wearing as I type this! The Soprod C125 keeps plus 1 second a day or flat zero!!! Have worn it a week straight and it was so hard to notice a 2-3 second difference! Glad Xeric made it as the Halograph was very fun and really easy to read!!

[@davidconnelly]

Thanks. That was really interesting. KEY TAKEAWAYS: 1). The dive watch market is saturated. 2). There's a shortage of good dress watches. 3). Vintage art deco style watches are currently winning.

[@CreateTimeToListen]

For dress watches Beaucroft is one that stands out to me.

[@PingDogg]

Was expecting Kuoe as a Japanese brand.

[@Namica_Watches]

Awesome! Was not expecting to be included, a very nice surprise. Thanks Jody!!

[@silicron]

Fantastic list. Thanks for putting this together Jody. That Marloe Astro 🤩🤩🔥🔥

[@MosheFeder]

Jody, this was a great service to your viewers! Both interesting and useful. I’m sure we all appreciate the time and effort you must have put into preparing it. Two additional microbrands I would like to have seen mentioned are Alkin in the UK and Trafford in Texas.

[@ryan_bitzer]

This is one of my favorite videos of yours so far! Thanks for showing us these great brands, Jody!

[@PG-pg3ey]

Thank you Jody ! I think heinrich watches is missing in your list because Wolfgang do a great job with high quality and affordable watches and probably have the best customer approach I ever seen

[@WolfgangHeinrich]

Thanks so much 🙌 Maybe we'll make it next time 💥

[@EEE_MMM]

As a massive microbrand fan, I did mis a certain number of my favorites. In no particular order: - Phoibos - Venezianico - Mr. Jones - Holthinrichs (though that's more of an independent than a microbrand) - Studio Underd0g - anOrdain (is that still a micro?) - Circula - Bausele - Elka - Bamford And I could continue like that for a while. This is no criticism of course- as you said, this list could have easily contained double the number of brands- but I just wanted to mention them anyway. And yes, I'm well aware that some of these fall (far) outside the usual price range for the channel ;-)

[@frankc3834]

Great overview of some lovely offerings. Thanks for putting this together!

[@mr.timezone1336]

There needs to be a part two of these!! I’m discovering so much right now. Thanks Jody!

[@dejuanmcguire9348]

I have a Xeric Halograph III. Happy to see them included!

[@AtheistOrphan]

Same here!

[@VARIOeveryday]

Thanks you so much for the mention!

[@rolexsubcasewearsbettertha9571]

Surprised that Ginault wasn't on the list. They make the best Sub homage to date with almost Rolex level quality, and ower TC is a legand, a talented watchmaker.

[@daveroberts8751]

Really good informative video Jody, without the self indulgent over production of some I could mention 😮 very much appreciated!

[@younusimam-thesalamproject6340]

Waited 4 years for the Helm Komodo since watching Jody's review and it's finally on it's way!

[@walkaroundwatches]

Love the established micros but there are tonnes of "micro" micro brands that I personally prefer and who will never get on your radar for perhaps being too small such as Lesablier, Golby, Alato, MMI, Pedral, Benjamin James, VEJRHØJ, Satori to name but a few.

[@beanboy89]

I own three of these brands, and have handled a lot of the others. Microbrands certainly offer a unique twist on the hobby, oftentimes with insane value. I've met a lot of the owners of these brands at various watch shows, and they're all very passionate about their craft.

[@allrightknight]

Where was ‘Mysterious Code’?! 😎 Its a mystery 😜✌🏼🇺🇸

[@DAWesome_]

Islander is definitely top 3 microbrand for me. I have two of Mark's pieces and my wife has 1... absolute banger worth the money.

[@UnseenHero]

Thanks for the video Jody. I had no idea you've reviewed all these brands already, very cool

[@TacoMaster3211]

The Namica Okami is a fantastic looking watch. I hadn't heard of them before this, so I've missed out on getting the Kanji version, but I've just ordered the non-Kanji version. Thanks for the recommendation Jody!

[@nedflanders3769]

Big fan of Traska and Lorier here. The finishing on my Traska is quite good and the hardness coating is awesome.

[@bobapatt2204]

Great video Jody. So many awesome brands and watches mentioned I didn’t knewn. Keep up the good work.

[@tkindschi]

I could toss out a few un-mentioned brands out there too....but it was made clear that an exhaustive list would take at least twice the time! But I wanted to say that despite not TRYING to be a micro focused buyer, I somehow became one. There really is much more interesting variety in the micro world than in the established brands!

[@Akstergrind]

This is very true! If I were thinking of starting up a KZbin watch-related channel, micro brands would provide a much richer vein to tap for content than the big traditional brands which hardly ever seem to do anything particularly innovative or daring. I'm constantly finding new and exciting watches in the micro brand arena - Jody's excellent video is testament to that!

[@isaacfredes1181]

Oh man , I have got a soft spot for pillowcase microbrand watches . those old Seiko vibes fascinate me

[@paulgreenan4395]

Great video Jody,so many great microbrands out there.Personal favourites currently are Schofield,I love the signalman but the others look great.

[@matthewtiene4417]

I’ve discovered some new micros I love, all of them. So much on offer. Great list Jody!

[@NoizeTank]

Scurfa Watches should've made that list. High quality divers (mostly) made by an actual commercial diver. They include both automatic and quartz movements, plus some titanium models in their lineup. Mine is a daily wear.

[@b0lkan]

100% agree. I've had my orange Treasure Seeker for a year now and it easily gets the most wrist time. Absolutely love it.

[@tsembelk]

Thanks for mentioning Halios. I have been lucky enough to get a brand new Fairwind and I'm loving it.

[@petrmotlik6515]

One of the greatest episodes ever made here - THANK YOU for this very interesting cruise around variety of Micros, one better / more interesting than other. Explorative, informative, and funny - as ever. Keep it up, Jody!

[@cheeseblog]

👏👏👏 Many I have never heard of. Presented as only you can Jody. Thank you❗️

[@nickfoster3637]

Awesome video Jody! One of my favorites.

[@markwright2674]

Thanks so much for the video - lots to love here! I'm very much enjoying my Maen... fantastic watch and great value, as you mentioned.

[@milanchristi7939]

Really nice video, Jody! My eyes were opened a few times.

[@HonestWatchReviewsHWR]

I do like me a microbrand. In fact, it was a microbrand watch that got me started with this whole KZbin thing. I have a few from the brands mentioned in this video, including not one, but two Second Hour Mandalas. As I love the design so much. There are almost two levels of microbrands really, possibly even three. You've got brands like Christopher Ward , Phoibos etc. That you could argue aren't even microbrands anymore. Then there's the like of Zelos, Vario etc. Then you have the really small ones such as Relio, MAS etc.

[@she_loves_watches]

Another great vid Jody! Thanks!

[@EricMiller]

This was a GREAT VIDEO FROM YOU!!!! So many watches, so little time to buy them all. See up the great work, Islander is personal favorite!

[@brianmurphy8154]

This was great video. Nice to see something different but still informative and fun…

[@therealMrJoey]

Jody, really enjoying your channel mate and thank you for introducing me to these unique brands. You are costing me a small fortune! Cheers Joe

[@patrickhartmann1540]

Lorier? Specific design language and been at it a while. Nice and interesting list otherwise. A few I’d not heard of!

[@Time4aWatch]

Definitely need a Part 2

[@henrywest7217]

Great list! Very useful.

[@jaydub9509]

Great video Jody, very informative. Only since you asked, my favorite micro not mentioned is Wise. I like that they don't seem content to put out the usual fare, and they make a lot of thoughtful design choices. Looks like there is abundant support for this brand below. Cheers!

[@MrEliwankenobi]

Excellent list! Thank you

[@matthewrikihana6818]

Whenever you mention Helm Vanuatu; I smile, look at my Vanuatu on wrist, and thank Mark in Christchurch for thinking it was too chunky for his wrist.

[@BenMwatches]

Such a cool list Thanks Jody - awesome content

[@benferris3252]

12:35 Glad to see it get some appreciation as the Swordfish Titanium Forged Carbon was both my first Zelos and the second most frequently worn watch in my collection. Fantastic watch

[@davidinghram2494]

I have a Raven custom shop model. It`s an excellent watch, and Steve is a great guy to work with.

[@philcrowe6727]

Agree, I have a Raven Solitude; the build quality, looks and support from Steve are second to none. I want another!

[@dsol9767]

Just got a new watch in yesterday and you release this? Why do you hate my wallet! Must say I've enjoyed my Zelos, Islanders, and finally my Helm arrived and it's a chunky beast. Excited to check out Nodus as they are local and their clasps looks awesome. Keep up the good vids

[@frag-x.headquarters]

Excellent review Jody!!! 🎉🎉🎉🎉 Thanks!

[@tapirdeaalex7104]

This is what I was hoping to see Jody!

[@JustOneMoreWatch]

Good stuff! Enjoy and thanks for watching!

[@ricardochaveste7367]

Greetings from St George Utah ,25 Microbands some few to mention Dan Henry's & Loreir, I have 2 ,the compressor and the Falcon ,what fantastic piece...great content as always my friend until next time awesome choices, yup easily could go all way to 50 so many out there...

[@scottsj4625]

Jode, a great selection of microbrands. I am sure that took a lot of time to think of all those brands and display pictures of them.

[@OnPointLeatherworks]

I really like Hemel. I own three and happen to be wearing my Hydrodurance today

[@bradleyburton4762]

I’d love to see your top 500, and binge watch it on the weekend.

[@brianmccord7387]

I picked up a Hemel Sea Dart used recently and have been very pleased with everything but the straight from the parts bin clasp

[@jdejes]

Amazing video Jody! A lot of brands I’ve never heard of! Loved Brew Watches, perfect size for my small wrist and the case shape is different in a good way. This video says a lot about who you are Jody. You have your own micro brand, yet you’re promoting watches from other “rival” brands. That means there’s camaraderie and respect among this community. Well done!! 👍🏻

[@MichaelWilliams-TX]

Thanks, please do a similar video on the topic of the movements used in the microbrands you reviewed. Pros and cons and considerations beyond the appearance and sizing of these brands.

[@TheLute70]

Excellent video. I really like that you recognized the watch makers

[@ruby055]

You missed the original micro Dan Henry who kinda started the micro craze over a decade ago maybe longer

[@GavinKohAquascaping]

I'm super early today. Great review of all the brands and seeing what's out there in a longer video. Definitely some keepers and others to keep an eye on. Are you loving the new studio?

[@JustOneMoreWatch]

Yes mate, so much more space and much better set up than the old one. And Mrs JOMW loving no watches in the house! Cheers.

[@samnova450]

Thanks for the feedback on all those micro-brands.

[@leonm2407]

So many great brands, thanks Jody. I would also include Phoibos.

[@alancollett8870]

Thanks for another great and different video Jody. Another brand I think worthy of mention is Escudo which are of Portugese origin. Also I'm surprised there was no mention of Phoibos.

[@patti_b9388]

Great list and saw some I hadnt seen some before. Just recently puchased a Farer Resolute II for a simple clean three hand watch, and its a fantastic watch! Would definitely buy another watch from them

[@careykimmelstiel183]

An amazi g video. I cant imagine how much time and effort went into it. Many thanks

[@mikesharkey6]

Solid list. Glad to see Formex and Monta on it. They are doing some next level work. Direnzo and Traska also have excellent finishing

[@lewisprice-nutman6974]

I would love to see a part 2 video, perhaps covering other brands like Lorier & Dan Henry - perhaps focus more on the vintage style watches as they offer a unique proposition in the market. Like you said offering unique takes on vintage styles while providing modern specifications and reliability.

[@jozsefizsak]

So much splendid design. This was fun.

[@tombeatty4792]

Nice list, Jody. I would also include Vaer, Hemel, and Praesidus, especially if you’re interested in military-style tool watches.

[@sdavifcom]

That was a lot of work! Thanks Jody.

[@ginesgomez7482]

Amazing video! I would suggest you to review one day if available Minor Watches and Temporelux, both from Spain, great value for money definitely! 👍🏼

[@MikeSmith-er1qs]

Great choices. I recommend all check out your video on the Xeric NASA watches. I have one and LOVE it!!!

[@mtbkmaniac1]

Thanks Jodi for bringing us all these waches over the years! Direnzo has had my eye since you introduced us to the DRZ-02 Kickstarter. Ive gotten one or two of each of his models since. I like the others, but I guess I am a 😂Direnzista!

[@kestonwright9881]

Great list Jody. My favorites not mentioned here are; Feynman Visitor Behrens Oak & Oscar Albert Villa Corniche