Celebrating Independent Watchmakers
Exceptional watches crafted by makers who value creativity, rarity, and true mechanical artistry.
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The Art of Independent Watchmaking
Independent watchmakers bring a distinct perspective to modern horology. Free from the production demands of large luxury groups, these creators focus on originality, technical exploration, and small-batch craftsmanship. Each timepiece embodies the maker's vision — resulting in watches that feel personal, expressive, and truly rare.
At The 1916 Company, our selection of independent watches includes innovative, collectible, and highly refined pieces from: H. Moser & Cie. , De Bethune , Ressence , Gérald Genta , Daniel Roth , and Greubel Forsey . Each brand brings its own philosophy, aesthetic language, and level of technical ambition to the landscape of contemporary watchmaking.
What Makes Independent Watches Unique
- Creative freedom: Independents design movements, cases, and complications without mass-market limitations, resulting in strong design identity.
- Handcrafted excellence: Movements and components are often hand-finished and assembled by master watchmakers.
- Limited production: Small annual output enhances rarity and long-term desirability.
- Innovation and experimentation: Brands like Ressence and Greubel Forsey push the boundaries of materials, display mechanics, and engineering.
Explore Featured Independent Watchmakers
- H. Moser & Cie. — Minimalist designs, in-house calibers, and signature fumé dials.
- De Bethune — Technical innovation with modern architecture, floating lugs, and advanced materials.
- Ressence — Revolutionary orbital display systems and "oil-filled" technology that rethink how time is read.
- Gérald Genta — Legendary designs known for bold casework, expressive complications, and distinctive artistry.
- Daniel Roth — Iconic double-ellipse cases and finely executed classical complications.
- Greubel Forsey — Sculptural movements, inclined tourbillons, and ultra-limited production.
Compare Independent Watchmakers
| Brand | Signature Aesthetic | Technical Identity | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| H. Moser & Cie. | Minimalist, elegant, modern | In-house calibers, advanced materials, refined finishing | Collectors who appreciate understated luxury with mechanical depth |
| De Bethune | Futuristic, architectural, sculptural | Floating lugs, blued titanium, technical innovation | Enthusiasts drawn to cutting-edge design and engineering |
| Ressence | Minimal, fluid, dial-centric | Oil-filled displays, orbital discs, crown-less ergonomics | Buyers interested in modern, conceptual watchmaking |
| Gérald Genta | Bold, playful, iconic silhouettes | Jump hours, retrograde displays, distinctive casework | Collectors who value design heritage and expressive complications |
| Daniel Roth | Classical, elegant, shaped cases | Double-ellipse case, finely executed complication work | Collectors who appreciate traditional craft with modern refinement |
| Greubel Forsey | Sculptural, technical, ultra-high end | Inclined tourbillons, multi-plane movements, hand-finishing | Serious collectors pursuing pinnacle-level craftsmanship |
Why Collectors Choose Independent Makers
Independent watches offer a human connection and artistic intention that sets them apart from mass-produced luxury. Each piece carries a story — of the designer, the workshop, and the philosophy behind the movement.
At The 1916 Company, every independent watch is authenticated, condition-evaluated, and presented with expert guidance to ensure collectors discover pieces that reflect their taste, values, and horological interests.