The best microbrand watches of 2025
2025 was a remarkable year for microbrand watches, showcasing a vibrant community of passionate creators dedicated to designing unique timepieces. Among the standout releases was the Anoma A1 Optical, featuring artistic dials inspired by the Optical art movement, and the Studio Underd0g 01 Homage Series, which humorously addressed issues of copyright by creating homage colorways of copied designs. Other notable mentions included the echo/neutra Rivanera Piccolo, a stylish rectangular watch, and the Kollokium Projekt 02, known for its innovative lume plots and die-cast case. The microbrand landscape also saw the emergence of watches that pushed creative boundaries, such as the Arcanaut ARC II D’Arc Roast, which featured a dial made from coffee grounds, and the Ōtsuka Lōtec No. 9, boasting a complex movement with a tourbillon. The Selten Métiers d’Art Grand Feu Enamel showcased exquisite enamel dials, while the Paulin Zapata Modul highlighted artistic collaboration with customizable designs. Each of these watches reflects the growing trend of smaller, distinctive pieces that blend functionality with artistic expression, redefining what collectors seek in the watch industry.
