From their signature case suspension system to their on-the-fly micro-adjust clasps and innovative use of materials, Formex has built a reputation for pushing the boundaries of watchmaking—while staying accessible.

In this episode of The Micro Collector, I sit down with Markus Wälchli (Brand Director & Co-Owner) to explore what makes Formex different—from their approach to innovation and product development to their direct-to-consumer strategy, engineering philosophy, and the realities of scaling a modern independent watch brand.

One of the most interesting takeaways: Formex doesn’t just design in isolation—they build with feedback from their customers, feeding real-world input directly back into the factory.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Formex
01:50 The History and Evolution of Formex
05:16 Innovation at the Core of Formex
09:04 Marketing Strategies and Direct-to-Consumer Approach
13:32 Unique Features and Comfort Innovations
19:45 The Product Development Process
24:12 Testing Watches in Extreme Conditions
27:45 Challenges and Growth of Formex
30:14 Future Goals and Brand Vision
34:36 Where to Find Formex Watches

Learn More About Formex

Website: https://formexwatch.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/formexwatch/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/formexwatch/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Formexwatch
Formex Watch Club: https://www.facebook.com/groups/formexwatch/
Shows and Events: https://formexwatch.com/pages/watch-shows-events/

#formex #microbrandwatches #watchcollector #horology #watchcommunity #independentwatchmaking #swisswatches

In this episode of The Micro Collector, I sit down with Ryan Walker, founder of JWalker—a brand inspired by naval history, Art Deco design, and a deeply personal connection to his father, whose name the brand carries.

While researching naval history, Ryan came across a gold Waltham watch tied to the only enlisted submariner to receive the Medal of Honor. That discovery led him down a path that ultimately shaped the identity of JWalker.

We also get into his design philosophy behind The New Deco, his decision to go quartz over automatic, and how his engineering and project management background influences how he builds.

We also cover:

- The moment he gave the first watch to his father

- Why documenting the journey matters in the microbrand space

- The philosophy behind “The struggle itself is enough”

If you're into microbrands, design-driven watches, or thinking about starting your own brand—this one’s for you.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Ryan and JWalker

03:04 The Journey from Enthusiast to Founder

05:55 Historical Influences in Watch Design

08:39 Engineering Background and Product Development

11:15 Design Choices and Aesthetic Inspirations

14:20 Movement Selection: Quartz vs. Automatic

19:53 Personal Connections and Family Legacy

25:35 Philosophical Reflections on the Journey

28:24 Documenting the Journey and Community Engagement

Learn more about JWalker:

Website: https://jwalkerwatch.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jwalkerwatches/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61582344700874

Ryan’s book: https://www.amazon.com/Silent-Services-First-Hero-Submariner/dp/1036100413

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-c-walker-698aaa93/

#MicrobrandWatches #WatchCollector #WatchEnthusiast #JWalker #WatchPodcast #QuartzVsAutomatic #WatchDesign #Horology #IndependentWatchmaking #TheMicroCollector #ArtDeco

Chris shares his journey from YouTube creator to opening one of the few physical retail spaces specializing in microbrand watches. We dive into the rise of microbrands, what makes them so compelling, and why a hands-on retail experience still matters in a direct-to-consumer world.

We also get into:

- How Clicky Bezel went from a side project to a full-fledged watch store

- The growing demand for microbrands like Baltic, Kuoe, and Formex

- Lessons learned from opening a retail shop in San Francisco

- Why customer experience is broken in traditional watch retail

- The opportunity in vintage Japanese watches (Seiko, Grand Seiko, and more)

- What’s next for Clicky Bezel

If you’re into microbrands, collecting, or thinking about starting your own watch brand, this is a must-watch.

Learn more about Clicky Bezel:
Website: https://www.clickybezel.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clickybezel
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/clickybezel
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@clicky.bezel

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Clicky Bezel and Chris Tran's Journey
09:03 The Rise of Microbrands and Independent Watches
18:34 Opening the Clicky Bezel Storefront
27:42 Challenges and Learnings in Retail
33:42 The Future of Clicky Bezel and Vintage Watches

The Micro Collector explores the people, ideas, and decisions behind today’s most interesting microbrand watches. Subscribe for more conversations with the founders building the next generation of watch brands.

#MicrobrandWatches #WatchCollecting #WatchEnthusiast #IndependentWatches #WatchCommunity #ClickyBezel #TheMicroCollector #WatchPodcast #VintageWatches #JapaneseWatches #Seiko #GrandSeiko #KingSeiko #BalticWatches #Kuoe #Formex #NivadaGrenchen #Vulcain #KuronoTokyo #EchoNeutra #KiwameTokyo #Beaubleu #ChristopherWard #Spinnaker #Vostok

From his beginnings in Japan as an artist and designer to building a watch brand known for bold, distinctive designs, Yu shares the full journey behind his work—including the realities of launching a watch brand, navigating a failed crowdfunding campaign, and finding unexpected traction through the watch modding community.

We dive into the story behind standout pieces like the A-1 Automatic and the Vinyl Record watch, his approach to collaboration, and how he thinks about design as both art and product.

If you’re interested in starting a watch brand—or simply appreciate creativity pushed beyond the norm—this is a must-watch.

Chapters
0:00 Intro & Discovering AndoAndoAndo
2:17 Yu Ando’s Background in Design & Art
5:41 Why He Started a Watch Brand
9:41 From Idea to First Watch (A-1 Journey)
12:04 Lessons from Kickstarter & Funding Reality
15:23 How the A-1 Actually Took Off
18:14 Creating the Vinyl Record Watch
20:59 Manufacturing & Finding the Right Partner
22:59 Collaboration Philosophy & Design Approach
27:20 Expanding Beyond Watches & What’s Next

Learn More About AndoAndoAndo:
Website: https://andoandoando.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andoandoando_design/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100070516164087

If you enjoy conversations with microbrand founders, make sure to like, subscribe, and follow along for more episodes of The Micro Collector.

#microbrandwatches #independentwatchmaking #watchdesign #watchmodding #watchcollecting #watchcommunity

What started with more traditional pieces like The Seaplane gradually expanded into something much more distinctive—through experimentation, risk-taking, and a willingness to follow ideas that didn’t always feel obvious at the time.

We talk through that evolution in detail, including:

• The early days of Farr + Swit and launching a first watch
• Why Adam chose to avoid “catalog watches” and focus on original design
• The shift from classic, safe designs to more expressive and creative pieces
• The story behind the Vice—and how it almost didn’t launch
• The thinking behind the Retro Digital Mix Tape and expanding into digital watches
• How different movements (automatic, quartz, solar, digital) fit into the brand
• Lessons from building a microbrand watch company over time
• The role of community, local production, and giving back
  

This conversation is a great look at the watch design process in practice—how ideas evolve, how products come to life, and how a microbrand finds its identity over multiple releases.

If you’re interested in microbrand watches, independent watch brands, or how to start a watch brand, this episode offers a real, behind-the-scenes perspective on what it takes to build something that stands out.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Early Influences

05:55 The Journey from Collector to Brand

11:28 Designing Unique Timepieces

17:26 The Retro Digital Mix Tape and Expanding Horizons

23:15 Balancing Tradition and Innovation

28:54 Community Engagement and Charity Initiatives

Follow Farr + Swit

Website: https://www.farrandswit.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/farrandswit

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@farrandswit

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FarrSwit

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@farrandswit

X: https://x.com/farrandswit

The Micro Collector is a podcast exploring the stories behind microbrand watches, independent watchmakers, and the founders building them—from design and manufacturing to brand and community.

#microbrandwatches #farrandswit #watchcollecting #independentwatchmaking #watchdesign #watchcommunity #watchpodcast

From assembling watches with off-the-shelf parts to launching a brand rooted in partnerships, storytelling, and a distinctly Canadian philosophy of “unity,” James shares what it really takes to build a microbrand from the ground up.

We cover how James got into watches and why microbrands changed everything for him, the shift from hobbyist to founder, why collaboration is central to Canuck Timepieces, lessons from early releases and sustainable, real growth, the role of community in building a watch brand, and what’s next for Canuck—including upcoming releases.

If you're interested in microbrand watches, watch design, or how to start a watch brand, this conversation offers a real, behind-the-scenes look at what it actually takes.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to James Williams and Canuck Timepieces
02:46 James's Journey into the World of Watches
05:25 The Impact of Microbrands on Watch Enthusiasm
08:16 From Hobbyist to Brand Founder
10:59 The Role of Collaboration in Watch Design
13:33 Unity and Community in the Microbrand Space
16:22 The Evolution of Canuck Timepieces
18:50 Future Plans and Upcoming Releases

Follow Canuck Timepieces
Website: https://canucktimepieces.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/canucktimepieces/

The Micro Collector is a podcast exploring the stories behind independent watch brands, microbrands, and the founders building them. Subscribe for more conversations like this.

#microbrandwatches #watchcollector #independentwatchmaking #watchdesign #watchmodding #watchcommunity

What started as a conversation between enthusiasts quickly evolved into a partnership — and eventually the creation of two distinct independent watch brands.

Jayson shares his journey from collector and YouTube creator to building watches from scratch, including insights into the watch design process, supplier sourcing, and the realities of microbrand watch manufacturing.

We also cover:

• How Flux and Valour came to life

• The difference between the two brands
• Lessons from failed Kickstarter attempts
• How community feedback shapes product development
• What it takes to bring a watch from concept to production

If you’re into microbrand watches, exploring independent watchmakers, or building your own brand, this episode is packed with real-world insight.

Subscribe for more conversations with founders shaping the future of watchmaking.

Chapters
00:00 Journey into Watchmaking: A Personal Story
08:45 From Community Chats to Co-Founding a Brand
16:06 Innovations in Watch Design: The Flux and Valour Brands
26:54 Future Aspirations: What's Next for Flux and Valour?

Links
Flux Website: https://fluxwatches.com/
Valour Website: https://valourwatch.com/
Flux Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flux_watches/
Valour Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/valourwatch/
Jayson’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designatelieraruba/
Jayson’s YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@DesignAtelier
Valour Lucent Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1601408832/valour-lucent-titanium-automatic-watch

#microbrandwatches #watchcommunity #independentwatchbrands #watchmanufacturing #watchdesign

In this conversation, Giuseppe talks about how he first got into watches, why the COVID period became such an important creative turning point, and what inspired him to write a physical book series focused on microbrands when nothing like it existed. We also get into what separates the best microbrands from the rest, the common mistakes founders make, underappreciated brands to watch, emerging trends in the space, and even the connection between guitars and watches.

If you’re into microbrand watches, independent watchmaking, affordable mechanical watches, and the stories behind the brands, this episode is for you.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Microbrands and Personal Journey
02:45 The Impact of COVID on Passion Projects
05:40 The Decision to Write a Book
08:05 The Evolution of Microbrands
11:07 Creating a Physical Book Experience
13:46 Moments of Realization and Success
16:26 Understanding Quality in Microbrands
19:04 Challenges Faced by Microbrand Founders
21:38 Spotlight on Underappreciated Microbrands
24:51 Emerging Trends in the Microbrand Space
27:08 The Connection Between Guitars and Watches
29:44 Future Projects and Upcoming Editions

Links

Follow Giuseppe / MrWatch93: https://www.instagram.com/mrwatch93/

Check out the new Microbrands Book IV - 2025 (coming to Amazon soon): https://store.youcanprint.it/microbrands-book-iv-2025-inside-microbrands-and-independent-watchmakers/b/b768dad0-4964-5fab-9d07-988fdce25945

Subscribe to The Micro Collector for more conversations with founders, collectors, and builders from the microbrand watch world.

#microbrandwatch #microbrandwatches #independentwatchmaking #watchpodcast #watchcollector #horology

Jérémy shares how he went from buying his first mechanical watch in 2024 to assembling watches from parts—and ultimately launching his own microbrand. We do a deep dive into Jungle Night, his debut pilot-inspired watch with a tropical rainforest theme (including the design choices and specs), and then zoom out into the bigger ideas: how microbrands can collaborate to overcome MOQ constraints, improve supplier leverage, and push innovation further.

We also talk about Jérémy’s engineering-driven vision for what could come next—concepts that blend mechanical watchmaking with smartwatch functionality—plus his long-term mission around environmental impact.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Jérémy and His Journey into Watchmaking
04:54 The Birth of Oscar Havane: Inspiration and Vision
09:50 Designing the Jungle Night Watch: A Deep Dive
15:00 Challenges in Microbrand Production and Pricing Strategies
17:53 Building a Network: Collaboration Among Microbrands

Links
Website: https://oscar-havane.com/
Kickstarter Page: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/oscar-havane/oscar-havane-watch-inspired-by-jungle?ref=ch4q0y
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oscar_havane/

#microbrandwatches #microbrandwatch #watchdesignprocess #independentwatchbrands #howtostartawatchbrand #watchmanufacturing #watchsuppliersourcing #watchcollection

Ed trained in Switzerland, worked at the Longines factory in Saint-Imier, and helped distribute brands including Vacheron Constantin, Blancpain, Girard-Perregaux, Breguet and Audemars Piguet in the UK as part of his family business. Along the way, he saw the industry up close — the craft, the people, and the pressure that comes with operating at the top end.

At the height of his career, Ed stepped away to prioritize his mental health. After an eight-year journey of reflection and rebuilding, he returned to found Split — an independent watch brand designed to stand for something deeper than status: innovation, meaning, and connection.

We talk about how that mission shows up in the product and the brand: why Split promotes every watch at 7:23 as a reminder that you don’t always have to wear a smile, why Ed chose modern materials and a watch that doesn’t “shine,” and how Split supports its charity partner by donating an hour of therapy with every watch sold.

We also dig into the watch design process behind Split — from advanced case materials and FKM straps to the Seiko NE86 chronograph movement — plus what Ed is building next (including the upcoming GMT range and the role music plays in the Split universe).

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Connection in the Watch Industry
02:35 Ed's Journey in the Watch Industry
05:40 Challenges and Imposter Syndrome
08:06 Taking a Sabbatical and Personal Growth
11:03 The Birth of Split and Its Mission
16:18 Innovative Materials and Design Philosophy
22:08 Mental Health and Community Connection
27:29 The Future of Split and Upcoming Projects

Learn More About Split
Website: https://www.splitwatches.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/splitwatches/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/16exSwoSSQ/?mibextid=wwXIfr
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@splitwatches
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/split-watches/
X: https://x.com/SplitWatches
Financial Times Article: https://www.ft.com/content/2a721f58-9b4c-47ce-8b1d-4a2e9beb5f53

In this episode of The Micro Collector, Justin Dorfman sits down with Scott Lancaster, Founder of Emerton Scott, to break down how he built the Evermont by prioritizing the watch itself (finishing, details, design intent) over paid marketing—and how “building in public” on YouTube became the real growth engine.

We cover Scott’s first attempt at launching a watch (and why he stopped it), his 100-year brand vision, the full watch design process behind Evermont, plus the practical tradeoffs founders face in watch manufacturing—from bracelets and straps to packaging and pricing.

If you’re into independent watch brands, researching microbrand watch manufacturing, or wondering how to start a watch brand, you’ll get a ton out of this.

Chapters
00:00 Personal Journeys From Watch Enthusiast to Founder
02:45 The Evolution of Emerton Scott
05:46 Long-Term Vision and Brand Building
08:13 The Evermont: Design and Features
11:13 Marketing Strategies in the Microbrand Space
13:53 The Importance of Straps and Packaging
17:02 Creative Content and Brand Engagement
19:51 Future Plans and Community Engagement

Links
Emerton Scott Website: https://emertonscott.com/
Scott Lancaster’s YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScottAdamLancaster
Evermont journey playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLY5k9H2U8j8G0k-ymn3NX6XM2ol4mAFHH&si=E5HipilOHuOIELlS
Scott Lancaster’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thescottlancaster/
Emerton Scott on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emertonscott/

About The Micro Collector
The Micro Collector explores the people + stories behind independent watchmakers and the world of microbrand watches—from first sketch to final watch on wrist.

#microbrandwatches #microbrandwatch #watchmanufacturing #watchdesignprocess #howtostartawatchbrand #independentwatchbrands #independentwatchmakers #watchsourcing #watchsuppliers #watchcommunity #watchcollection #bestmicrobrandwatches #emertonscott #evermont #themicrocollector

Tommaso shares the journey from watch enthusiast to founder, and walks through the real process of building a modern microbrand watch from the ground up. We dig into everything from early inspiration and market gaps, to the watch design process, supplier sourcing, manufacturing constraints, and the difficult trade-offs required to balance complexity, wearability, and affordability.

At the center of the conversation is the Axon Origo, Axon’s debut model and upcoming Kickstarter launch. Designed as a wearable, 39mm grand complication watch, the Origo reflects a deliberate approach to microbrand watch manufacturing—prioritizing reliability, thoughtful design, and community over short-term profit.

This episode is especially relevant if you’re interested in:

• How independent watch brands get started
• What actually goes into watch manufacturing and supplier sourcing
• The challenges microbrand founders face when pushing technical boundaries
• How to start a watch brand without compromising on vision
  

Whether you’re a collector, a founder, or simply curious about how independent watchmakers bring complex watches to market, this conversation offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at the realities of building microbrand watches today.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Axon Watches
02:59 The Journey of a Watch Enthusiast
05:31 Identifying Market Gaps in Watchmaking
08:01 Designing the Axon Origo
10:28 Balancing Features and Affordability
13:32 Challenges in Manufacturing and Supplier Selection
16:00 The Kickstarter Launch Strategy
18:31 Vision for the Future of Axon Watches

Show Notes & Links
Axon Watches Website:
https://www.axonwatches.com/

Axon Watches Kickstarter:
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/axon-watches/axon-watches-grand-complications-accessible-to-everyone

Axon Watches Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/axon_watches_25/

#microbrandwatches #independentwatchbrands #watchmanufacturing #watchdesignprocess #independentwatchmakers #howtostartawatchbrand #watchcommunity #themicrocollector

Alternative Symmetry Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/alternativesymmetry/alternative-symmetry-diverse-modular-watch-innovation/rewards#reward-UmV3YXJkLVVtVjNZWEprTFRFd056UXhNelEz

Alternative Symmetry Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/altsym/

Phillip Plimmer on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pplimmer/

Aspect Designing (Phillip’s design studio): https://aspectdesigning.com/

#microbrandwatches #microbrandwatch #independentwatchbrands #independentwatchmakers #watchdesign #watchdesignprocess #modularwatch #sustainablewatch #watchcollector #watchpodcast #themicrocollector

Ryan shares his journey from lifelong watch collector and furniture designer to launching Makoto—a brand inspired by Japanese culture, respect for detail, and enduring design. We talk about the pivotal life moments that shaped his path, including travel through Japan, the philosophy behind Makoto’s designs, and how each watch tells a story rooted in place, nature, and intention.

We also dive into the realities of running a modern microbrand: launching on Kickstarter, balancing high-quality materials with accessible pricing, producing limited runs, listening to collector feedback, and building a community around the brand. Ryan opens up about the challenges, the financial realities, and the most rewarding moments of seeing his watches worn around the world.

If you’re a watch collector, aspiring brand founder, or simply curious about what goes into creating a thoughtful, design-driven microbrand, this episode offers a candid and inspiring look behind the scenes.

Chapters
00:00 – Introduction to Ryan and His Journey

02:38 – The Birth of Makoto: From Passion to Brand

05:39 – Cultural Inspirations: The Essence of Japan in Design

07:53 – Exploring the Watch Models: Features and Inspirations

10:43 – Kickstarter Success: Lessons Learned and Community Engagement

15:49 – Balancing Quality and Affordability in Watchmaking

21:21 – The Rewards of Building a Microbrand

26:45 – Future Plans: Collaborations and New Models

Show Notes & Links

Makoto Watch Company: https://makotowatch.com/

Makoto Nagomi Kickstarter:

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/kodawari/makoto-watch-company-nagomi-automatic-watch-collection

Makoto on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/makotowatchcompany/

#TheMicroCollector #MakotoWatchCompany #MicrobrandWatches #IndependentWatchmaking #WatchCollectors #WatchCommunity #MicrobrandCommunity #WatchEnthusiast #Horology

In this short introduction, host Justin Dorfman shares the thinking behind the podcast and what it sets out to explore.

After a lifetime as a watch enthusiast and collector, Justin became increasingly drawn to the world of microbrand watches—independent, founder-led watch companies producing limited-quantity timepieces outside the traditional luxury system.

While microbrands are often celebrated for their design, craftsmanship, and value, this podcast focuses on something deeper: the people behind the watches. The founders who had a vision for a watch they wanted to see exist—and were willing to go against the odds to bring it to life.

The Micro Collector is a podcast about those stories.

Through thoughtful, long-form conversations, the show explores the decisions, tradeoffs, and realities of building a microbrand watch—from early ideas to finished watches on the wrist.

If you’re a watch collector, an enthusiast, or simply curious about microbrands and the founders behind them, you’re in the right place.

Subscribe and stay tuned—the first full episode is coming soon.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to The Micro Collector Podcast
00:31 Understanding Microbrands and Their Significance
01:29 What to Expect from the Podcast
01:42 Outro

Follow along on Instagram for more microbrand watches, behind-the-scenes clips, and updates:
https://www.instagram.com/themicrocollector/

#MicrobrandWatches #WatchCollectors #WatchPodcast #IndependentWatchmaking #WatchEnthusiast #Horology #WatchCommunity