Some of our favorite watchmakers are little more than one-man operations. Others might be a small team, but what they have in common is that many have built companies from scratch around their unique visions. They have freedom to think outside the box and make their ideas real, and their influence on the watch industry is more significant than many perhaps realize.
Independent watchmakers, startups, microbrands or whatever you’d like to call them have proliferated over the last decade. The convenience of sourcing parts and labor as well as the chance to connect directly with watch enthusiasts thanks to the internet has created new opportunities for ambitious entrepreneurs. Part of what characterizes many of these brands is their ability to avoid many costs that bigger, older brands often face and offer previously unheard-of values.
These indie brands are far from uniform, however: they range from one-man shops that make their own parts like Schon or Pelton to bigger/older companies with their own movements like Yema and Damasko. The people behind these companies have often incredible stories and insight.
Below, you can hear directly from the creators and designers at these brands. Whether you’re interested in understanding your favorite watchmaker’s background or getting some entrepreneurial wisdom, they’re all inspirational and well worth a read.
Schon Horology’s Ian Schon
Schon HorologyWe interview Ian Schon about what it means to maintain an artistic vision while single-handedly running a complex pen and watch manufacturing business.
