Best of 2025: Independent Watchmaking
In 2025, independent watchmaking saw a limited number of genuinely new releases, with many brands opting to reintroduce familiar models in updated configurations. Notable highlights included Urban Jürgensen's UJ-1 Tourbillon, which showcased a remarkable revival under the leadership of the Rosenfields and watchmaker Kari Voutilainen. This timepiece, modeled on a historic pocket watch, features a stunning movement that embodies traditional craftsmanship, albeit at a high price point. Other standout releases were Petermann Bédat’s Reference 1825 and Raúl Pagès’ RP2, both of which exemplified the elegance of time-only watches with thoughtful design and in-house finishing that emphasized originality without succumbing to excess. Additionally, Ferdinand Berthoud's Naissance d’une Montre 3 exemplified artisanal watchmaking, requiring thousands of hours and a dedicated team, while Greubel Forsey's QP Balancier represented a significant evolution in perpetual calendar design, merging mechanical sophistication with contemporary aesthetics. Konstantin Chaykin's whimsical White Rabbit watch introduced a playful yet functional approach to timekeeping, reflecting the creative spirit of independent horology. These releases demonstrate that despite a crowded market, innovation and craftsmanship continue to thrive within the realm of independent watchmaking.
