SALMANPK's insightful post shines a spotlight on the burgeoning Australian watchmaking scene, often overlooked by international collectors. This curated overview introduces readers to a diverse group of talents, from master watchmakers like Eva Leube and Reuben Schoots to innovative brands such as Nicholas Hacko. It serves as an excellent guide to the unique craftsmanship and independent spirit thriving Down Under.
Australia has a vibrant watchmaking scene which in my case doesn't register often enough on my radar. Let's Explore what's Shakin and Bakin Down Under 😊
Eva Leube
German-born master watchmaker Eva Leube established her own workshop in 2007 and presently resides and works in Sydney, Australia.
I know she was working on a new watch that was supposed to be released two or three years ago, anyone knows what's up with that?
Reuben Schoots
Reuben Schoots is a self-taught independent watchmaker based in Canberra, Australia. He has gained international recognition for his high-end, handcrafted timepieces, specifically for his "Daniels-style" approach to traditional horology.
Nicholas Hacko
Nicholas and Josh Hacko are master watchmakers based in Sydney and is recognized as the founder of the first watch manufacturer in Australia. The brand, often referred to as NHW (Nicholas Hacko Watchmaker), was born from a need for independence after major Swiss brands began restricting the supply of spare parts to independent repairers in 2011.
R. McMahon Watchmakers
R. McMahon Watchmakers is a specialist workshop in Adelaide, South Australia, known for authentic in-house watch manufacture and high-level restoration of vintage timepieces. Founded by Master Watchmaker Richard McMahon, the workshop is located in the Tonsley Innovation District.
Galvin Watch Co.
Galvin Watch Company is an Australian microbrand based in Sydney, founded in 2020 by Finnish watchmaker Susan Galvin. The brand is known for it's Nordic minimalist design.
Curtis Australia
Curtis Australia watches are handcrafted in Bairnsdale, Victoria by master jeweler and watchmaker Glenn Curtis where he creates solid gold watch cases by hand, combining traditional jewelry techniques with Sellita movements. Also makes beautiful pens.
There is also a big trend of Microbrands in Australia like Adina, Bausele, Melbourne Watch Company, Erebus, Panzera, Erroyl, Haigh and Hastings and others.
It was wonderful to see the passion for fine watchmaking, the craftsmanship and the pride they take in making an Australian watch 😊👍
Source: ablogtowatch, the watch press, time & tide, Monochrome, Google Images, Instagram
Key Points from the Discussion
Eva Leube's watches are admired for their complex yet functional design and modern aesthetic, with particular appreciation for the extreme curvature of her cases.
While Reuben Schoots' work is recognized as nice, some collectors find it too similar to other celebrated independent watchmakers.
Nicholas Hacko's movement treatment and Glenn Curtis's pens and jewelry are highlighted as particularly appealing aspects of Australian craftsmanship.
There is a desire among collectors to see a thinner version of Eva Leube's designs and to learn about her new watch project.
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The Discussion
VO
Volney.
May 9, 2026
The first one,
By Eva Leube, might very well be my favorite: complicated but not to the point of being useless, modern without attempting at timelessness.
HO
hora12reborn
May 9, 2026
+1 Bent likr Beckham 😆
SA
SALMANPK
May 9, 2026
I wouldn't know 😁
RI
riverside / Henry
May 10, 2026
Agree with you on the first one.
M4
M4
May 9, 2026
All of these are interesting in their own right. The Eva Leube is probably my favorite. Thanks for sharing.
SA
SALMANPK
May 9, 2026
She does beautiful work, I want to see a thinner version and the new design she was working on
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