Patek Philippe
The 1916 Company luxury watches for sale

Pre-Owned Independent Watches

Discover the most innovative and sought-after timepieces from today's leading independent watchmakers. This curated selection features pre-owned watches from horology's most creative brands — each one redefining what modern watchmaking can be.

119 Watches
119 Watches

Independent Watchmaking: Creativity Beyond Convention

The world of independent watchmaking is driven by visionaries — master watchmakers and design pioneers who operate outside the corporate structure of traditional brands. These makers challenge mechanical limits, introduce unconventional materials, and push the boundaries of design. Their watches are rare, often produced in small batches, and highly collectible. At The 1916 Company, we curate a selection of pre-owned watches from the most celebrated independent watch brands. Each piece is authenticated and backed by our global warranty, offering clients a chance to own a chapter of horological innovation.

Explore Pre-Owned Watches from Independent Watchmakers

The independent watchmaking world represents the pinnacle of mechanical creativity — where technical mastery meets boundary-pushing design. These are not mass-produced timepieces; they are expressions of individual vision, produced in limited numbers, and coveted by collectors who value the rare and the remarkable. Our curated selection includes independent brands at the forefront of modern horology.

F.P. Journe

François-Paul Journe has redefined modern independent watchmaking with his uncompromising dedication to chronometry and aesthetics. His eponymous brand is known for innovations like the resonance movement and Octa automatic caliber — each model demonstrating mechanical depth and artistic precision.

De Bethune

De Bethune combines traditional Swiss craftsmanship with futuristic design. Known for its proprietary balance wheels, mirror-polished cases, and blued titanium components, De Bethune creates technical marvels that are as visually compelling as they are mechanically sophisticated.

H. Moser & Cie.

H. Moser & Cie. merges minimalist aesthetics with highly sophisticated engineering. Known for fumé dials, inventive complications, and in-house movements, Moser watches embody restrained elegance with a disruptive spirit — appealing to collectors who value both beauty and independence.

Urwerk

Urwerk is known for its radical interpretation of timekeeping. Satellite hours, revolving minute tracks, and bold case architecture have made Urwerk one of the most forward-thinking names in haute horlogerie. Their watches are kinetic sculptures for the wrist.

Richard Mille

Richard Mille timepieces are designed with cutting-edge materials and motorsport-inspired mechanics. Lightweight carbon composites, tourbillons built for shock resistance, and an unapologetically modern aesthetic make these watches some of the most elite and instantly recognizable in the world.

MB&F

Founded by Max Büsser, MB&F (Maximilian Büsser & Friends) is an artistic concept laboratory that transforms traditional watchmaking into three-dimensional kinetic art. Horological Machines and Legacy Machines challenge both design norms and mechanical expectations.

Laurent Ferrier

A former Patek Philippe watchmaker, Laurent Ferrier creates elegant timepieces that blend classical forms with advanced in-house calibers. His watches are a study in finishing, proportion, and independent craft with enduring appeal.

Ressence

Ressence offers a revolutionary way of displaying time through rotating discs that orbit within the dial. These oil-filled displays and intuitive time-telling designs represent some of the most original ideas in 21st-century horology.

For collectors who value mechanical ingenuity and visionary design, our complete pre-owned collection includes standout pieces from both legacy brands and today's most celebrated independent watchmakers. Whether you're exploring indie watches for the first time or seeking rare grail references, The 1916 Company offers a trusted, curated experience backed by global warranty and concierge service.

Trust in Our Expertise

Every independent watch listed by The 1916 Company is authenticated, evaluated, and supported by a two-year global warranty. We've spent over a century earning the trust of collectors worldwide — from first-time buyers to seasoned connoisseurs.

Browse online or schedule an appointment at any of our locations to discover exceptional watches from the most innovative minds in horology.

An independent watchmaker is a brand or individual that designs, manufactures, and assembles watches outside of large corporate groups. These makers prioritize mechanical innovation, artisanal craftsmanship, and creative freedom.
Independent watches are typically produced in very small quantities and feature unique complications, materials, or designs not found in mainstream brands. Their rarity and innovation make them highly desirable to collectors.
Top independent watch brands include F.P. Journe, MB&F, De Bethune, Urwerk, Richard Mille, Laurent Ferrier, and Ressence — all known for pushing the boundaries of mechanical watchmaking.
Yes. All pre-owned independent watches offered by The 1916 Company are thoroughly inspected, authenticated, and backed by a two-year global warranty.