Watch Types
What Is an Independent Watchmaker?
Independent watchmakers explained: who they are, why their watches are so sought after, and names every collector should know.
By Brandon Volosov · 5 min read · Updated October 9, 2026
Independent, explained
Independent watchmakers are brands that aren't owned by large luxury groups. Many are led by a single master watchmaker and a small team, making a few dozen to a few thousand watches a year, often with extraordinary hand finishing and original movements.
Why collectors love them
- Hand-finished movements and dials you can study for hours
- Original ideas, from unusual complications to new ways of reading the time
- Tiny production, so owning one feels personal
- A direct connection to the person who made the watch
Names to know
- F.P. Journe: famous for the Chronomètre Bleu and Octa collections
- Philippe Dufour: the Simplicity is a legend of hand finishing
- Kari Voutilainen: Finnish master known for exquisite dials and movements
- De Bethune: futuristic designs and technical innovation
- MB&F: three-dimensional "horological machines"
- H. Moser & Cie.: minimalist fumé dials and serious watchmaking
- Akrivia / Rexhep Rexhepi, Simon Brette, Naoya Hida and Sylvain Pinaud: some of today's most sought-after names
Independents at every price
Independent doesn't always mean expensive. Microbrands are independent too, and many offer original design and great quality for a few hundred dollars. That range, from small makers to master watchmakers, is what Brandon's Brands celebrates.