Comments:
Question for the group:
While I’m pretty much vintage only, I am interested in the advancements in microbrands. On that note (and I’m talking micro brands. The sub $10k makers and not independents who we all know well) who’s doing interesting stuff and who is producing quality in this space. Last time I looked there were perhaps 10 independents and that seems to have exploded. Photos are always welcomed as well.
I've been eyeing this one
Ex Moser Guy Benedict Pran Stritzko started his own brand Aurelia named after his daughter
Source: Nico Leonard
Source: Nico Leonard
I don’t know if I would like them in person,
but I’d be interested in seeing the Art Deco watches made by Thomas Schnelle using vintage Longines 9LT movements.
Best, Emmanuel
Best, Emmanuel
I can suggest Elka for the well-under 10k bracket.
And a well timed article in Time & Tide
A bit of a question of definition…
Of what is a micro brand and what is well known. Habring2 and Kudoke will fall into the price window and offer genuine content.
As for the very micro, I am probably not best served to answer, as I do not own any 🤷🏻♂️
There's so much grey area and overlap...
I think Maen is interesting, the ultra-thins they are using in the 37, 39 and now 40 sizes in both automatic and manual wound LJP calibers for under 1500 USD.
Rpaige, probably more on the independent side is turning out some interesting one-off stuff. Crosses into the vintage space when you look at some of the repurposed cases he's using. Bonus is that you can easily wind up with items that are in effect a piece unique due to the nature of the customization although it's not common to speak of the watches this way.
I'm increasingly focusing on discovering the collaboration projects myself. While not strictly about your 10k price cap, looking at who the independent makers are that have "downmarket" brands for the enthusiasts. (example: Andreas Strehler has his "Strehler" brand now). Going down this rabbit hole let me to Lyrique (which has been discussed here and above your price cap) but also the newer small private projects under the Montres Feu de Sable name that will have high horological value done purely for love of the art.
We live in a golden age!
Rpaige, probably more on the independent side is turning out some interesting one-off stuff. Crosses into the vintage space when you look at some of the repurposed cases he's using. Bonus is that you can easily wind up with items that are in effect a piece unique due to the nature of the customization although it's not common to speak of the watches this way.
I'm increasingly focusing on discovering the collaboration projects myself. While not strictly about your 10k price cap, looking at who the independent makers are that have "downmarket" brands for the enthusiasts. (example: Andreas Strehler has his "Strehler" brand now). Going down this rabbit hole let me to Lyrique (which has been discussed here and above your price cap) but also the newer small private projects under the Montres Feu de Sable name that will have high horological value done purely for love of the art.
We live in a golden age!