The Micro Collector

Jonathan Ferrer, founder of Brew Watches, joins The Micro Collector to share the full story behind one of the most recognizable microbrand watch companies today.What started as a creative experiment—designing a watch inspired by café culture—has grown into a globally recognized brand with a distinct design language and a deeply engaged community.In this conversation, we explore Jonathan’s journey from industrial design and early experience at Movado to building Brew into a standout name in the microbrand space. We discuss the origins of the brand, the breakthrough moment with the Brew Metric, and his approach to designing watches that feel both nostalgic and new. We also dive into the realities of scaling a microbrand, the tradeoffs that come with growth, why Brew avoided the traditional department store path , and what’s next as the brand looks to build deeper relationships with its community.For more conversations like this with founders in the microbrand and independent watch space, subscribe to The Micro Collector.Chapters00:00 Introduction03:02 Jonathan Ferrer's Background and Early Influences06:11 The Birth of Brew Watch Company08:57 Design Philosophy and Early Models11:57 The Brew Metric: A Turning Point14:50 Building a Recognizable Design Language17:51 Growth and Challenges in the Microbrand Space21:02 Maintaining Brand Identity While Scaling23:55 Future Directions for Brew WatchesLearn More About BrewWebsite: https://www.brew-watches.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brewwatches/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@brewwatchesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/BrewWatches/X: https://x.com/BrewWatchCoPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/BrewWatches/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@brewwatchco#microbrand #watches #watchcollector #watchcommunity #entrepreneur #founderstory #design #brewwatches

If you’ve been following the microbrand and independent watch space, you’ve likely come across Formex.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.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Formex01:50 The History and Evolution of Formex05:16 Innovation at the Core of Formex09:04 Marketing Strategies and Direct-to-Consumer Approach13:32 Unique Features and Comfort Innovations19:45 The Product Development Process24:12 Testing Watches in Extreme Conditions27:45 Challenges and Growth of Formex30:14 Future Goals and Brand Vision34:36 Where to Find Formex WatchesLearn More About FormexWebsite: https://formexwatch.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/formexwatch/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/formexwatch/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FormexwatchFormex 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

What does it take to go from watch enthusiast to microbrand founder?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 JWalker03:04 The Journey from Enthusiast to Founder05:55 Historical Influences in Watch Design08:39 Engineering Background and Product Development11:15 Design Choices and Aesthetic Inspirations14:20 Movement Selection: Quartz vs. Automatic19:53 Personal Connections and Family Legacy25:35 Philosophical Reflections on the Journey28:24 Documenting the Journey and Community EngagementLearn more about JWalker:Website: https://jwalkerwatch.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jwalkerwatches/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61582344700874Ryan’s book: https://www.amazon.com/Silent-Services-First-Hero-Submariner/dp/1036100413LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-c-walker-698aaa93/#MicrobrandWatches #WatchCollector #WatchEnthusiast #JWalker #WatchPodcast #QuartzVsAutomatic #WatchDesign #Horology #IndependentWatchmaking #TheMicroCollector #ArtDeco

In this episode, I sit down with Chris Tran, Co-Founder of Clicky Bezel—a San Francisco-based watch store specializing in microbrands, independents, and vintage pieces.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 BezelIf 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/clickybezelYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/clickybezelTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@clicky.bezelChapters00:00 Introduction to Clicky Bezel and Chris Tran's Journey09:03 The Rise of Microbrands and Independent Watches18:34 Opening the Clicky Bezel Storefront27:42 Challenges and Learnings in Retail33:42 The Future of Clicky Bezel and Vintage WatchesThe 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

In this episode of The Micro Collector, I sit down with Yu Ando, Founder of AndoAndoAndo—one of the most creative and original voices in the microbrand watch world.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.Chapters0:00 Intro & Discovering AndoAndoAndo2:17 Yu Ando’s Background in Design & Art5:41 Why He Started a Watch Brand9:41 From Idea to First Watch (A-1 Journey)12:04 Lessons from Kickstarter & Funding Reality15:23 How the A-1 Actually Took Off18:14 Creating the Vinyl Record Watch20:59 Manufacturing & Finding the Right Partner22:59 Collaboration Philosophy & Design Approach27:20 Expanding Beyond Watches & What’s NextLearn More About AndoAndoAndo:Website: https://andoandoando.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/andoandoando_design/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100070516164087If 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

In this episode of The Micro Collector, I sit down with Adam Hodge, founder of Farr + Swit, to explore how a microbrand evolves—from classic watch design to bold, creative breakouts that define a brand.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 watchWhy Adam chose to avoid “catalog watches” and focus on original designThe shift from classic, safe designs to more expressive and creative piecesThe story behind the Vice—and how it almost didn’t launchThe thinking behind the Retro Digital Mix Tape and expanding into digital watchesHow different movements (automatic, quartz, solar, digital) fit into the brandLessons from building a microbrand watch company over timeThe role of community, local production, and giving backThis 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.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Early Influences05:55 The Journey from Collector to Brand11:28 Designing Unique Timepieces17:26 The Retro Digital Mix Tape and Expanding Horizons23:15 Balancing Tradition and Innovation28:54 Community Engagement and Charity InitiativesFollow Farr + SwitWebsite: https://www.farrandswit.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/farrandswitYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@farrandswitFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/FarrSwitTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@farrandswitX: https://x.com/farrandswitThe 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

In this episode of The Micro Collector, I sit down with James Williams, founder of Canuck Timepieces, to unpack his journey from watch enthusiast to microbrand founder—and why community and collaboration sit at the core of everything he builds.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.Chapters00:00 Introduction to James Williams and Canuck Timepieces02:46 James's Journey into the World of Watches05:25 The Impact of Microbrands on Watch Enthusiasm08:16 From Hobbyist to Brand Founder10:59 The Role of Collaboration in Watch Design13:33 Unity and Community in the Microbrand Space16:22 The Evolution of Canuck Timepieces18:50 Future Plans and Upcoming ReleasesFollow Canuck TimepiecesWebsite: 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

In this episode of The Micro Collector, Justin Dorfman sits down with Jayson De Castro, co-founder of Flux and Valour, to unpack how a simple community chat turned into two emerging microbrand watches.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 lifeThe difference between the two brandsLessons from failed Kickstarter attemptsHow community feedback shapes product developmentWhat it takes to bring a watch from concept to productionIf 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.Chapters00:00 Journey into Watchmaking: A Personal Story08:45 From Community Chats to Co-Founding a Brand16:06 Innovations in Watch Design: The Flux and Valour Brands26:54 Future Aspirations: What's Next for Flux and Valour?LinksFlux 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/@DesignAtelierValour Lucent Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1601408832/valour-lucent-titanium-automatic-watch#microbrandwatches #watchcommunity #independentwatchbrands #watchmanufacturing #watchdesign

Giuseppe Marasco, also known as MrWatch93, joins The Micro Collector to share how his passion for watches led him to create the Microbrands Book series — one of the most thoughtful resources dedicated to microbrand and independent watchmaking.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.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Microbrands and Personal Journey02:45 The Impact of COVID on Passion Projects05:40 The Decision to Write a Book08:05 The Evolution of Microbrands11:07 Creating a Physical Book Experience13:46 Moments of Realization and Success16:26 Understanding Quality in Microbrands19:04 Challenges Faced by Microbrand Founders21:38 Spotlight on Underappreciated Microbrands24:51 Emerging Trends in the Microbrand Space27:08 The Connection Between Guitars and Watches29:44 Future Projects and Upcoming EditionsLinksFollow 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-9d07-988fdce25945Subscribe to The Micro Collector for more conversations with founders, collectors, and builders from the microbrand watch world.#microbrandwatch #microbrandwatches #independentwatchmaking #watchpodcast #watchcollector #horology

In this episode of The Micro Collector, I’m joined by Jérémy Griozel, Founder of Oscar Havane.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.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Jérémy and His Journey into Watchmaking04:54 The Birth of Oscar Havane: Inspiration and Vision09:50 Designing the Jungle Night Watch: A Deep Dive15:00 Challenges in Microbrand Production and Pricing Strategies17:53 Building a Network: Collaboration Among MicrobrandsLinksWebsite: https://oscar-havane.com/Kickstarter Page: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/oscar-havane/oscar-havane-watch-inspired-by-jungle?ref=ch4q0yInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/oscar_havane/#microbrandwatches #microbrandwatch #watchdesignprocess #independentwatchbrands #howtostartawatchbrand #watchmanufacturing #watchsuppliersourcing #watchcollection

In this episode of The Micro Collector, I sit down with Ed Margulies — a third-generation watchmaker whose journey spans the highest levels of the watch industry and a very personal turning point that shaped what he chose to build next.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).Chapters00:00 Introduction and Connection in the Watch Industry02:35 Ed's Journey in the Watch Industry05:40 Challenges and Imposter Syndrome08:06 Taking a Sabbatical and Personal Growth11:03 The Birth of Split and Its Mission16:18 Innovative Materials and Design Philosophy22:08 Mental Health and Community Connection27:29 The Future of Split and Upcoming ProjectsLearn More About SplitWebsite: https://www.splitwatches.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/splitwatches/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/16exSwoSSQ/?mibextid=wwXIfrTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@splitwatchesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/split-watches/X: https://x.com/SplitWatchesFinancial Times Article: https://www.ft.com/content/2a721f58-9b4c-47ce-8b1d-4a2e9beb5f53

Great microbrand watches don’t need ads—they need obsession with the product.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.Chapters00:00 Personal Journeys From Watch Enthusiast to Founder02:45 The Evolution of Emerton Scott05:46 Long-Term Vision and Brand Building08:13 The Evermont: Design and Features11:13 Marketing Strategies in the Microbrand Space13:53 The Importance of Straps and Packaging17:02 Creative Content and Brand Engagement19:51 Future Plans and Community EngagementLinksEmerton Scott Website: https://emertonscott.com/Scott Lancaster’s YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScottAdamLancasterEvermont journey playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLY5k9H2U8j8G0k-ymn3NX6XM2ol4mAFHH&si=E5HipilOHuOIELlSScott Lancaster’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thescottlancaster/Emerton Scott on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emertonscott/About The Micro CollectorThe 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

In this episode of The Micro Collector, I’m joined by Tommaso Esposito, Co-Founder of Axon Watches — an emerging independent watch brand on a mission to make grand complications accessible to everyday collectors.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 startedWhat actually goes into watch manufacturing and supplier sourcingThe challenges microbrand founders face when pushing technical boundariesHow to start a watch brand without compromising on visionWhether 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.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Axon Watches02:59 The Journey of a Watch Enthusiast05:31 Identifying Market Gaps in Watchmaking 08:01 Designing the Axon Origo10:28 Balancing Features and Affordability13:32 Challenges in Manufacturing and Supplier Selection16:00 The Kickstarter Launch Strategy18:31 Vision for the Future of Axon WatchesShow Notes & LinksAxon Watches Website:https://www.axonwatches.com/Axon Watches Kickstarter:https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/axon-watches/axon-watches-grand-complications-accessible-to-everyoneAxon Watches Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/axon_watches_25/#microbrandwatches #independentwatchbrands #watchmanufacturing #watchdesignprocess #independentwatchmakers #howtostartawatchbrand #watchcommunity #themicrocollector

In this episode of The Micro Collector, I sit down with Phillip Plimmer, founder of Alternative Symmetry, to explore how modular design and sustainability are reshaping what modern microbrand watches can be.Phillip brings more than 22 years of experience designing watches for major global brands before launching his own independent watch brand—one built around modular components, sustainable materials, and long-term wearability. We dive into his watch design process, the thinking behind modular watches, and the real-world challenges of bringing an innovative microbrand watch to life.This conversation is perfect for collectors interested in independent watch brands, as well as anyone curious about how to start a watch brand, microbrand watch manufacturing, and what it takes to turn a design vision into a finished watch.Whether you’re building a microbrand watch collection or simply exploring some of the most thoughtful ideas in modern watchmaking, this episode offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at how Alternative Symmetry is pushing boundaries—without losing practicality.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Alternative Symmetry02:46 Phillip Plimmer’s Journey in Watch Design05:24 The Birth of Alternative Symmetry08:09 Understanding Modular Design in Watches11:06 Sustainability in Watchmaking16:25 Challenges in Building a Microbrand20:55 Kickstarter Experience and Future PlansShow Notes & LinksAlternative Symmetry Website: https://www.alt-sym.com/Alternative Symmetry Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/alternativesymmetry/alternative-symmetry-diverse-modular-watch-innovation/rewards#reward-UmV3YXJkLVVtVjNZWEprTFRFd056UXhNelEzAlternative 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

In this episode of The Micro Collector, I’m joined by Ryan LeClair, Founder of Makoto Watch Company, for a deeply personal conversation about passion, craftsmanship, and building a microbrand with meaning.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.Chapters00:00 – Introduction to Ryan and His Journey02:38 – The Birth of Makoto: From Passion to Brand05:39 – Cultural Inspirations: The Essence of Japan in Design07:53 – Exploring the Watch Models: Features and Inspirations10:43 – Kickstarter Success: Lessons Learned and Community Engagement15:49 – Balancing Quality and Affordability in Watchmaking21:21 – The Rewards of Building a Microbrand26:45 – Future Plans: Collaborations and New ModelsShow Notes & LinksMakoto Watch Company: https://makotowatch.com/Makoto Nagomi Kickstarter:https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/kodawari/makoto-watch-company-nagomi-automatic-watch-collectionMakoto on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/makotowatchcompany/#TheMicroCollector #MakotoWatchCompany #MicrobrandWatches #IndependentWatchmaking #WatchCollectors #WatchCommunity #MicrobrandCommunity #WatchEnthusiast #Horology

Welcome to The Micro Collector.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.Chapters00:00 Introduction to The Micro Collector Podcast00:31 Understanding Microbrands and Their Significance01:29 What to Expect from the Podcast01:42 OutroFollow 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