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At Balance & Bridge , we love microbrands and independents and in 2024, we don't think you can beat what Let's jackknife (intended again) into the deep end of our picks for 9 of the best Microbrand Dive Watches while pushing the boundaries of dive watch design, ensuring its place among the pantheon of legendary microbrands Introducing the Zelos Mako 300M GMT, a stunning testament to innovation and craftsmanship in the world of microbrand We truly believe that these are some of the best microbrand dive watches of 2024 and hope you check each

Enter the world of field watches from independent and microbrand watch companies . watches are featured alphabetically by brand, and each represents the pinnacle of what independent and microbrand If field watches, aren't exactly your thing, then feel free to check out our best microbrand dive watches Quick Navigation of the Independent & Microbrand Field Watches Featured CIRCULA ProTrail FORMEX Field will go wrong with any of these options, and great finds can be had at great value in independent & microbrand

If you are looking for a breath of fresh air and want to dive into the exciting world of microbrands, In this article, we're going to introduce you to 7 of the best microbrands and independent watchmakers Quick 7 Best Microbrands and Independent Watchmakers in 2023 Christopher Ward - The Stylish Underdog The Wrap up of the 7 (8) best Microbrands of 2023 So there you have it, folks - the best microbrand and *UPDATE* Check to see if your favorite Microbrand made the same or another list in 2024!

Together In recent years, the watchmaking landscape has experienced a remarkable transformation, with microbrands In the United States, several microbrand watchmakers have risen to prominence, delivering high-quality Here, we explore some of the best American microbrand watches making waves in 2024, along with their Wrapping Things Up The American microbrand watch scene is vibrant and diverse, offering a plethora of For more microbrands, check out our lists of best divers and field watches ! Balance & Bridge

These pillars are the ones that microbrand watches are founded upon, and this is what we are going to Each of the microbrands/independents mentioned in this post offer no shortage of these attributes. Quick Navigation of Featured Microbrands and Their Best Watches: BALTIC | Studio Underd0g | TRASKA | In many lineups of microbrand watches you may see one model that deviates from the traditional form, We hope you enjoyed this trip through the land of incredible microbrands and some of their offerings.

Microbrands , in particular, have embraced these materials to offer incredible value, originality, and By focusing on niche markets and unique designs that larger brands often overlook, microbrands create With an emphasis on distinctive design, premium materials, and excellent craftsmanship, microbrands have Microbrands and titanium are a natural fit, both thriving on fresh, innovative ideas. Below are some of the best titanium microbrand watches out there. Enjoy!

The YEMA   Navygraf Marine Nationale has recently been honored with the title of French Watch of the Year 2024 by the Union de la Bijouterie Horlogerie (UBH). This prestigious award recognizes timepieces that excel in design and incorporate a high proportion of French-made components. An Exquisite Design Evolution The YEMA Navygraf Marine Nationale features a newly redesigned 39mm 316L stainless steel case. This update includes refined proportions, a thinner profile by 1.50mm compared to its predecessor, and a combination of brushed finishes with polished chamfers, resulting in a robust yet elegant appearance that seamlessly blends form and function. Vintage-Inspired Dial and Hands The Marine Nationale’s dial is meticulously crafted with a French Navy blue-white color scheme, showcasing printed hour markers in slight relief and treated with Super-LumiNova for enhanced readability. The omission of a date window ensures perfect dial symmetry and improves legibility. The iconic Navygraf hands, inspired by the 1970s model, are fully white-coated, contrasting sharply against the monochromatic dial. The yellow sweeping second hand and matching Navygraf calligraphy add a distinctive touch of character. Cutting-Edge CMM.10 Manufacture Caliber At the heart of this timepiece lies the new Manufacture caliber CMM.10, offering superior chronometric performance and a 70-hour power reserve. This self-winding mechanical movement boasts advanced features, including a large barrel, Nivaflex® spring, bidirectional oscillating weight, and a Glucydur balance wheel. The CMM.10 ensures precision and durability with high shock resistance, magnetic resistance, and a smooth automatic winding mechanism. YEMA Navygraf Marine Nationale Noteworthy Features Double-Dome Sapphire Crystal : The 2.20 mm thick double-dome sapphire crystal enhances readability, increases resistance, and provides a vintage aesthetic. Exhibition Case-Back : The sapphire crystal exhibition case-back reveals the intricate workings of the CMM.10 caliber while maintaining 30 BAR (300m) water resistance. The Marine Nationale official logo is discreetly printed within the crystal, and each case-back is engraved with a unique serial number corresponding to the 5-year warranty card. Luminescent Element : All dial markers, bezel, and hour and minute hands are coated with Grade A Super-LumiNova, ensuring perfect readability in low light conditions. Tribute to the French Navy The Marine Nationale “No Date” dial underscores its military heritage, with the Marine Nationale inscription at 6 o’clock reinforcing its official status. The French Navy, established in 1626, is dedicated to safeguarding France's maritime interests globally. This watch pays homage to the Navy’s enduring legacy and commitment to excellence. Availability and Pricing The Navygraf Marine Nationale, available in two bezel colors, will begin shipping in October 2024. Priced at $1,690 for the diver steel bracelet model and $1,590 for the Marine Nationale parachute strap version, this timepiece exemplifies superior craftsmanship and timeless design. The Navygraf Marine Nationale represents the pinnacle of French watchmaking tradition, combining excellence in design with exceptional performance. Secure this award-winning timepiece by pre-ordering today, and join the legacy of fine horology. Learn more and grab yours from YEMA.

This is one reason why FARER made its way into our rankings of the 7 best microbrands of 2023.

Farer has introduced a new Field Watch Collection, composed of three thoughtfully designed models that reflect both the brand’s commitment to quality and its appreciation for the natural beauty of the UK. Named after iconic National Parks—Pembroke, Exmoor, and Lomond—these watches offer an impressive blend of durability, readability, and Farer’s distinctive flair. The updated collection builds on the original series, but with a few notable enhancements. With a water resistance rating of 150 meters, robust sapphire crystals, and X1 Super-LumiNova on all markers, each model is ready for whatever comes its way. Farer has kept the core functional elements that watch enthusiasts value, but each model also has unique design touches that make it unmistakably Farer. Let’s take a closer look at what makes each of these new field watches worth adding to your collection. FARER Field Watch Collection Pembroke II – Subtle Earth Tones and Thoughtful Details The Pembroke II is designed with a sandy-colored dial that features a delicate gravel texture, providing a sense of depth and dimension. The dial has been carefully crafted, with navy blue Arabic numerals and baton markers that seem to hover slightly above the textured surface, adding a sense of visual interest. Coated in X1 Super-LumiNova, these markers are easy to read under any lighting conditions. The hour and minute hands are sleek blue sword-style hands, while the lollipop seconds hand provides a small pop of red. The dial also includes a pointer date complication, marked by a fourth hand with the Farer logo in a striking red. The rehaut is printed with the date scale, and dates are shown in mid-blue, while the last four days are highlighted in red to signal a potential date change. This feature, both practical and visually engaging, adds an additional layer of functionality to the design. The Pembroke II’s blend of earth tones with sharp details brings a grounded yet polished aesthetic, making it equally suitable for outdoor excursions and casual wear. Exmoor II – Military-Inspired and Utility-Focused Taking inspiration from classic field watches, the Exmoor II stands out with its olive drab dial and crisp white Arabic numerals. The dial layout is simple yet purposeful, with bright yellow lume accents marking every five minutes along the minute track. These yellow markers add a touch of contrast against the olive backdrop, creating an easy-to-read and visually striking display. The Exmoor II’s hour and minute hands are finished in silver and coated with Super-LumiNova for nighttime readability, while a blue-grey lollipop seconds hand with a red tip provides a subtle splash of color. Farer has used burnt orange for the pointer date hand and echoed this color in the last four days of the month on the date scale, reinforcing the model’s utility-driven design. The Exmoor II doesn’t just evoke military field watch aesthetics; it embodies the durability and functionality that such a watch should offer, making it a reliable companion for those who value both style and substance. Lomond II – Crisp and Bold, Inspired by Nighttime Landscapes The Lomond II has a navy blue dial with a subtle gravel texture that reflects light in a way that adds dimension without overwhelming the design. Farer has chosen custard yellow for the hour markers, arranged in the classic 3, 6, 9 format, with a triangle marker at 12 o’clock for quick orientation. The textured battleship grey sword hands complement the dial’s darker tones, while a red-tipped seconds hand adds a lively contrast. This model also includes a pointer date hand, rendered in blue and pointing to white date numbers along the rehaut, with the last four days highlighted in red. The color scheme and the thoughtfully spaced markers ensure readability even in challenging lighting conditions, thanks to the ample application of Super-LumiNova. The Lomond II is a stylish yet functional piece, with a restrained color palette that conveys sophistication and an understated confidence. Enhanced Case Design for Durability and Comfort Farer’s redesigned case for this collection emphasizes both durability and wearability. The brushed stainless steel case is sized at a comfortable 38mm in diameter and only 11.7mm in thickness, giving it a slim profile that sits well on most wrists. The bezel has been slimmed down to maximize the dial space, making it easier to read and giving the watch a more contemporary look. The enlarged screw-down crown, now 35% wider, is not only practical but adds a bold visual detail that complements the overall design. This improved crown is easier to grip, allowing for precise adjustments even with gloves or in wet conditions. Farer has also opted for a flat sapphire crystal with three layers of anti-reflective coating, ensuring that reflections don’t compromise visibility when you’re out in the sunlight or under artificial lighting. With 150 meters of water resistance, these watches are more than capable of handling everyday adventures, from spontaneous hikes to weekend kayaking trips. The combination of robust materials and practical design features makes this collection versatile enough for a range of environments, so you don’t have to worry about it keeping up with your lifestyle. Inside the Case: The Swiss-Made Sellita SW221 Movement The heart of each model is a Swiss-made Sellita SW221 automatic movement, chosen for its reliability and accuracy. This 26-jewel movement has a 4Hz beat rate and offers a 41-hour power reserve, so you can leave your watch off for a day or two without having to worry about resetting it. The pointer date feature of this movement adds both functionality and charm, with a date hand that clicks satisfyingly into place. This model-specific SW221 movement is distinct from the SW200, with the addition of a spring-actuated date hand. Farer has paid attention to every detail, ensuring that the tactile experience of setting the date is as precise and satisfying as possible. Two Strap Options for Versatility Each watch in the Field Collection comes with two strap options, giving you flexibility for different situations. The stainless steel three-link bracelet is designed with on-the-fly micro-adjustment, a first for Farer. By pressing a button on the underside of the clasp, you can adjust the bracelet by up to 4.2mm, so you can find a comfortable fit no matter the conditions. Farer’s sailcloth strap, made from genuine sailcloth material rather than synthetic alternatives, is another standout feature. This material has been specially developed in partnership with a Swiss manufacturer, offering a unique combination of durability, water resistance, and comfort. The strap includes a rubber lining for added comfort, along with leather reinforcements for the keepers and pinholes, ensuring it holds up well over time. FARER Field Watch Collection Key Specifications: Case Size : 38 mm diameter, 11.7 mm depth, 45 mm lug-to-lug, 42 mm pin-to-pin Material : 316L Stainless Steel, fully brushed finish Crown : Screw-down, with solid bronze cap insert and embossed Farer 'A' logo Crystal : Flat sapphire with three layers of internal anti-reflective coating Strap : Quick-release sailcloth strap with rubber lining Three-link stainless steel bracelet with on-the-fly micro-adjustment clasp Lug Width : 20 mm Water Resistance : 150M / 15ATM Movement : Swiss Made Sellita SW221 automatic Jewels : 26 Power Reserve : 41 hours Functions : Hours, minutes, seconds, pointer date Price : £1095 / $1250 / €1295 The Farer Field Watch Collection takes a familiar concept and elevates it with thoughtful details, refined functionality, and durable materials. Whether you’re a field watch enthusiast or simply looking for a reliable companion that won’t let you down, the Pembroke II, Exmoor II, and Lomond II offer something fresh and engaging in the world of field watches.

FARER takes another step toward delivering on their customer requests with the expanded collection in the Cushion Case lineup. Since its launch, the Cushion Case collection has swiftly become one of Farer's most beloved offerings. Today, Farer is excited to unveil four new models, expanding this popular line and demonstrating its dedication to providing customers with an extensive array of choices . With these additions, the Cushion Case collection now features eight distinct models, ranging from traditional designs to modern, sporty styles. Diverse New Models to Suit Every Taste The new additions include both fresh designs and exciting updates to existing favorites. Among the highlights are the following: Lethbridge Gold For the first time, Farer introduces a model with a gold-colored case—the Lethbridge Gold. This new version of the Lethbridge brings a golden glow to the Cushion Case collection, featuring a champagne metallic dial, yellow gold PVD-coated case, and elegant polished Arabic numerals. The sunken silver ring of the sub-seconds dial adds a touch of contrast and sophistication. Benham The Benham presents a unique aesthetic not previously seen in the Cushion Case collection. The dial is a rich cherry red, textured with horizontal grooves, and features a sunken sub-dial above the six o'clock position. The sporty brushed bezel complements the contemporary look, while the baby blue seconds hand adds a playful touch. Named after the pioneering English explorer Gertrude Benham, this model is as bold and adventurous as its namesake. Mansfield Midnight The Mansfield Midnight boasts a deep inky blue dial with polished rose gold batons and numerals, creating a striking and sophisticated appearance. The raised sector dial, sunken seconds sub-dial, and polished rose gold PVD-coated hands and markers provide depth and elegance, making it an ideal watch for both formal and everyday wear. Durham Pullman Eastern Arabic Edition This limited edition Durham model is a standout with its dark green metallic brushed dial adorned with polished silver Eastern Arabic numerals. The sophisticated design, featuring a raised sector dial and a sunken silver sub-dial, makes it suitable for any occasion. Limited to just 100 units, this edition is a rare and exquisite addition to the Cushion Case collection. Upgrades to the Stanhope The popular Stanhope model has received an upgrade with a fully brushed bezel, matching the new Benham and enhancing its sporty aesthetic. FARER Cushion Case Collection: Technical Specifications Case Size 38.5mm diameter, 10.5mm depth, 43.8mm lug-to-lug, 41mm pin-to-pin Material 316L Stainless Steel Case Finish Polished case with brushed bezel chamfer, fully brushed bezel on the Stanhope and Benham Crown Rounded stainless steel with solid bronze cap insert featuring embossed Farer 'A' Glass Curved sapphire crystal with multi-layer anti-reflective coating on the underside, sapphire exhibition glass on case back Strap Quick-release leather strap Lug Width 20mm Water Resistance 50M / 5ATM Movement Swiss Made Sellita SW216-1 Elaboré Grade movement Jewels 24 Winding Hand-wound Power Reserve Approximately 45 hours when fully wound Functions Hours, minutes, small seconds sub-dial Pricing and Availability Price: £925 / $1050 / €1075 Price w/ Steel Bracelet: Available for £150 / $170 / €180 Shipping Dates: - Benham and Mansfield Midnight: 15th August - Lethbridge Gold: 3rd October - Durham Pullman Eastern Arabic: 5th December With these exciting new models, the Cushion Case collection continues to offer something for everyone, blending traditional elegance with modern design elements to create truly unique timepieces.

What excited us more than anything has been the incredible rise and public awareness of the so-called Microbrands To skip right to the list of the Best 10 Microbrand Watches of 2024, choose your adventure below: 10 Best Microbrand Watches of 2024 Christopher Ward - The Twelve / Bel Canto FARER - Meredith GMT FORMEX Now, let's jump into some of the best Microbrands and Independently owned watchmakers and their best The more microbrands can stay relevant, the more accredited the entire niche becomes.

have covered the Hull Pearl Diver release as well as including Spinnaker in our list of the best 10 microbrands