Breaking Boundaries: 5 Independent watchmakers that are shaping the future of timekeeping
The art of measuring time
There’s a growing interest in up-and-coming independent watchmakers in recent times as watch enthusiasts are constantly on the lookout for fresh and captivating timepieces. Unlike their counterparts under conglomerates, these watchmaking houses are deeply involved in every aspect of their creations, from initial design to final distribution.
Each brand is pushing the envelope with its avant-garde styles and meticulously made movements that are well worth the price tag. As the desire for groundbreaking creations surges and the market welcomes new players, we’ve curated a selection of standout independent brands that you should keep an eye out for.
Richard Mille
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Richard Mille started in 2001 with a vision to create something completely original through a contemporary approach to watchmaking. To realise his dream, the founder teamed up with Dominique Guenat, and the two of them created the RM 001 design—a fusion of cutting-edge technology and artistic brilliance. Today, the Swiss brand has expanded its repertoire to over 80 models, each distinguished by its distinctive case—a defining feature of its identity. Fun fact: Malaysian icon Michelle Yeoh is the ambassador for two exceptional women’s watches from Richard Mille: the RM 051 and RM 51-01 Tourbillon.
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MB&F
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Maximilian Büsser and Friends, also known as MB&F, is renowned for pushing the limits of horology to a new dimension. Founded in 2005, the Geneva-based label stands out with its radical designs that incorporate robotics and industrial features inspired by jets, animal forms, tubular shapes, and skeletal structures. The result? A collection of futuristic timepieces that maintain the utmost standards of watchmaking craftsmanship. To date, some of its famous models are the angular-shaped HM5 and HMX, as well as the iconic HM3, which has a battle-axe winding rotor.
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Parmigiani Fleurier
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Although Parmigiani Fleurier was officially established in 1996, its origins trace back to 1976 when its founder, Michael Parmigiani, opened his watchmaking and restoration workshop. His expertise in restoring valuable antique timepieces, including commissions for esteemed institutions like the Patek Philippe Museum and the Château des Monts, paved the way for his encounter with the Landolt family, owners of the Sandoz Family Foundation. With their support, Parmigiani was able to establish his namesake brand and win over many people, including King Charles III.
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Audemars Piguet
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Jules Louis Audemars and Edward Auguste Piquet founded Audemars Piguet in 1875, in Le Brassus, a village inside the Vallée de Joux in Switzerland. To this day, the manufacturer is still owned by families and continues to produce timepieces with an uncompromising spirit, all assembled and finished by hand. One of Audemars Piguet’s masterpieces is the Royal Oak, which holds the distinction as the world’s first luxury sports watch crafted from stainless steel. Thanks to its superb in-house movements and impeccable finishing, this watch has graced the wrists of many celebrities and trendsetters, cementing its status as an icon of refined elegance.
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Franck Muller
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Franck Muller’s journey began in 1983 with the introduction of its first wristwatches, tapping into a discernible market demand for unique timepieces. Since then, the founder has consistently showcased unprecedented complications, including the pioneering visible front-facing Tourbillon, which earned him the esteemed title of ‘Master of Complications’. Alongside its innovative creations, Franck Muller is celebrated for its iconic Cintrée Curvex silhouette and intricate numeral designs. Setting itself apart, the brand also hosts its watch fair, the World Presentation of Haute Horlogerie (WPPH), held at the Grand Malagny heritage site.
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