Keeping It Local

We cast our eyes homeward in search of promising watch microbrands

- Evigan Xiao

The Swiss may lead the world in the field of watchmaking, but there is something to be said for underdogs. For some time now, microbrands have been rising on the horizon, offering interesting perspectives on a traditional craft. The appeal of microbrands also lies in their accessibility – you don’t need to be a high-roller to acquire or appreciate the watches they make. It comes as little surprise that Singapore, being one of the first watch capitals in Southeast Asia, has borne a number of microbrands that it can be proud of.

Zelos

Zelos is one of Singapore’s microbrands that has made it to the big time, having its fair share of fans from around the world. It tops the local list in terms of the number of units sold. Its offerings veer toward dive watches, ranging from the lean 40-millimetre Mako to the chunkier 44-millimetre Great White. Zelos also recently partnered with Swiss manufacturer La-Joux Perret to produce a limited series of skeletonised tourbillon watches, the Mirage Tourbillion, which have since sold out.

Swordfish 42mm Titanium

Titanium is a great choice of material for dive watches due to its lower density, allowing it to offset the chunky disposition of most dive watch case designs. Despite its lighter weight, its tensile strength is similar to that of steel. However, it’s an expensive metal to produce due to the cost of purification. Most titanium mechanical dive watches cost over S$1,000, but the Swordfish 42mm Titanium starts at a mere S$500, with some dial choices commanding a small premium.

Gruppo Gamma