Many well-known microbrands have broken out of their niches and become real small brands. We have seen many projects catapulted directly to small brand status thanks to crowdfunding efforts. But there seems to be a sense of skepticism floating around in many Facebook groups and even in the comments of our own Fratelli. This brings us to the big question I’m trying to answer today: can you still find value in a microbrand for 500 euros?
Many years ago, I fell in love with watches through the concept of microbrand value and fell into the deep hole that so many watch lovers fall into. I have tried to get into less expensive watches, but I often find myself falling in love with a new one. In my opinion, there is still value. I think the following five watches represent that perfectly. Whether you’re just getting into watches or are curious about microbrands, be sure to check out these great values.
RZE Urbanist Solar
The possibility of solar charging is relatively new on the microbrand scene. Miyota recently released a small solar-powered quartz movement, and one brand was quick to take advantage. The RZE Urbanist offers an easy-to-use field watch with great specifications in a compact 36mm size. I know RZE well, and I regret not deciding to collaborate with the brand. But with a 10-second charge and a 100m depth rating, the Urbanist is one of the best budget GADA watches released by a microbrand this year.
The lightweight yet durable Grade 2 titanium case is coated with RZE’s UltraHex coating, which gives it a hard, scratch-resistant layer of 1200 Vickers, which is comparable to the 200 Vickers of 316L steel. At $259 (approx. 237 euros), it’s great value for money. It comes with a black NATO strap, so you’re spoilt for choice in color; for summer, the warm Medallion Yellow is my favorite.
J&Berg B2
Earlier this summer, I had the chance to take a closer look at a watch from Finnish Scandinavian brothers J&Berg. With a matte blasted titanium case and 100m water resistance, the B2 is a sturdy everyday watch with a lot going for it. The case measures 38.5mm and measures a comfortable 45.2mm lug-to-lug. It’s highly legible, yet boasts an indefinable style. Modernity is the key word, and the B2 is a modern watch without any hint of retro vibes.
The dial is a two-tone design with a wide outer ring and radial brushed areas. This lower construction is reminiscent of a modern take on Panerai’s multi-layered dial technique. However, this comparison doesn’t do this watch justice. It’s the first sandwich dial I can think of. The large, angular hour and minute hands are luminous for most of their length. The central part of the dial is available in two fresh colors (turquoise and copper) and one more subdued color (dark brown). Powered by an automatic Miyota 9039, the B2 represents great mechanical value at 475 euros.
Laurier Neptune Series IV
Lorier is a mainstay in the microbrand world, offering evolution rather than revolution for the wrist. The New York-based husband-and-wife team has long offered period-perfect designs and the comfort of small cases. Lorier still sells versions of its first model, the Neptune, each of which is essentially a more carefully curated, slimmer version of a ’50s-inspired diver’s watch.
Currently, there is no Laurier in my box. However, having owned both the first and second generation, I can happily vouch for its quality. The movement may not seem anything special today, but the Miyota 90S5 is robust. From experience, it often runs surprisingly accurately straight out of the box. The Neptune is restocked from time to time, so keep an eye on the brand’s website. The fourth generation of this 39mm watch is 10.3mm thick and still has the best looking flat-link bracelet. The Neptune can be purchased for $499 (approximately 457 euros).
Ember Rocket
Kickstarter is still going strong! For some reason, there seems to be more skepticism towards crowdfunding sites these days, but I’m still a fan. Kickstarter is a place where emerging brands can get in and inspire a sense of community. You just need to be a little careful and vet brands before placing your bets.
Ember Rocket is an example of a product I am willing to invest in. The rocket with two straps costs 316 pounds (about 369 euros).This is for early backers on Kickstarter. It also gives me peace of mind that the project is already well funded. We’ll have to wait until next year to see the watch, but it will be well worth it. The faceted case is made of bead-blasted 316L steel with a polished bezel. The watch measures 40 x 47mm and is powered by the Seiko NH38 Automatic. With a selection of fresh colors and a clean, modern design, getting the Rocket at this price, on a leather and FKM rubber strap, seems like a pretty good deal to me.
Namika Okami
And finally, we come to the Namica Okami. While angular appeal seems to be on the rise, I personally welcome more contemporary watch designs (as you can already tell). And in our retro-obsessed world, while the 70s and 80s may have inspired the Namica Okami (wolf in Japanese), the design feels fresh and modern. When I first came into contact with the brand, the price of this Okami was within the magic $500 limit, which equates to about 458 euros. However, after a successful Kickstarter, it is now available for pre-order for $550.
So the Namica is now only about €3.60 over my article’s €500 limit. I think this unique and modern watch will be worth its premium price when it’s restocked. It’s well-proportioned, measuring 35mm wide and 39mm lug-to-lug. The Miyota 9039 movement inside is a proven engine. My pick would be the Turbo model’s vibrant blue dial, especially the custom-fit FKM strap.
How about you? Are you focused on a small collection of valuable, holy grail watches? Or are you experimenting and looking for microbrand value? Tell us about your favorite affordable microbrand pieces in the comments below.
