There’s No Chance You Heard About All Of These Watch Brands

In the world of horology, we hear the names of Rolex, Omega, and Patek Philippe all the time. Yet, beyond the glitz and glamour of the mainstream watch world lie a few hidden treasures that may have slipped under your radar. Let's discover four watch brands that are rewriting the rules of timekeeping.

 

Photo source: Kickstarter

 

Maen: Kickstarter Triumphs Beyond Expectations

 

When it comes to Kickstarter-born brands, scepticism often sinks them before they even take off. However, Maen, founded by two enterprising Dutchmen, defied this stereotype. Offering unbelievable value for money, Maen watches are a show of incredible craftsmanship for mind-boggling prices. Their range includes divers and chronographs, each boasting Swiss movements that ensure precision and reliability. Maen is living proof that success on Kickstarter doesn't have to be synonymous with mediocrity (even though it usually is).

 

Photo source: Habring2.com

 

HABRING² : Austrian Excellence in Minimalism

 

Located in the heart of Austria, Halbring 2 stands show the power of artisanal craftsmanship. Operated by a husband-and-wife team, quite a unique combination, this boutique brand produces just 200 watches annually. What sets Halbring 2 apart is its devotion to minimalist design and movements. Among their repertoire, you'll find creations like the dead-beat movement—a very complicated mechanical movement mimicking the movement of the second hand in quartz movements. Surprisingly, they don't invest heavily in marketing, relying instead on the sheer brilliance of their creations to speak for themselves.

 

Photo source: Chronoswiss

 

Chronoswiss: Munich's Legacy of Innovation

 

From the thriving city of Munich, Chronoswiss starts as a brand steeped in history and passion. Its founder, a former employee at Heuer, was thrown into action when the iconic brand faced bankruptcy. Armed with nothing but movements and watch parts Heuer distributed as payment to their employees, he set out on his own horological journey. Today, Chronoswiss is known for pushing the boundaries of complexity in watchmaking. Their handcrafted guilloche dials are unrivalled, even leaving industry titans like Audemars Piguet and Patek Philippe struggling to match their artistry.

 

Photo source: Behrens

 

Behrens: Chinese Pioneers of Watchmaking Innovation

 

Operating from China, Behrens is a manufacturer at the forefront of pushing the boundaries of what's possible in watchmaking. Their creations are nothing short of unbelievable. Imagine a watch that weighs just 11 grams—seems almost impossible. Behrens has even collaborated with the iconic Konstantin Chaykin on a Joker-themed timepiece that defies convention. With price points ranging from $2,000 to $15,000, Behrens offers a range of watches that match the tastes of both the connoisseur and the intrepid explorer of watchmaking possibilities.

 

 

These four brands, each with its unique origin story and approach to watchmaking, exemplify the diverse landscape of the horological world. They serve as a reminder that true craftsmanship knows no bounds, going beyond continents and conventions. As you navigate the world of watches, remember to keep an eye out for these hidden gems—they might just be the next star in your collection. Happy hunting!