BRUTALLY Ranking 50 Watch Microbrands

Поделиться
HTML-код
  • Опубликовано: 7 май 2024
  • TODAY we rank 50 of the worlds BEST watch microbrands on one tier list. From Baltic to San Martin, let's see how all these brands stack up against eachother.
    Top Tier Ticker Watch Shop - toptierticker.com/
    Follow my Instagram - / toptierticker
    Want more Top Tier Ticker? Here are some of my BEST videos
    Watches That SUCK To Own - • 10 Amazing Watches Tha...
    Affordable Watches Even Snobs Don't Hate - • 10 Budget Watches Even...
    Building The Ultimate Budget Watch Collection - • Building The ULTIMATE ...
    Finally Revealing My Entire Watch Collection - • My Entire Affordable W...
    Get 20% Off All Spinnaker Watches Using Code 'TTT20' - www.spinnaker-watches.com/Top...
    Top 20 Best Watches On Jomashop - www.jdoqocy.com/click-10097292...
    My Top Amazon Recommendations -
    Best Watch Box Under $100 - amzn.to/40SLluz
    Best Watch Under $250 - amzn.to/3CB05n1
    The Ultimate Beater Watch - amzn.to/3WbxlIA
    Business Enquiries - toptierticker@gmail.com
    Disclaimer - Some of these links may be affiliate links. Meaning that you pay no extra for the product but I get paid a small fee for directing you to it. I only ever link products that I feel are good quality and that are worth your time.

Комментарии • 543

  • @pauliewalnuts5241
    @pauliewalnuts5241 16 дней назад +17

    I like the fact San Martin provides affordable and quality homages. Imo they are top tier.

    • @AngryAsianOG
      @AngryAsianOG 10 дней назад +1

      And they do have some new original designs as well

    • @tonyl7000
      @tonyl7000 6 дней назад

      Reputations linger. It's going to take something very amazing to shake off the "value homage maker" image. Christopher Ward was intially known for IWC homages once upon a time, but after hundreds of watch releases and successes like the Twelve and Bel Canto, many have forgotten that already.

    • @tonyl7000
      @tonyl7000 6 дней назад +1

      Also, being a Chinese company doesn't help them help either.

  • @krvav1
    @krvav1 27 дней назад +38

    CW is not a microbrand anymore, Traska is definatly a top tier micro,

  • @JohnLilley
    @JohnLilley 26 дней назад +24

    i think Vaer needed a mention, but great video.

    • @cableg01
      @cableg01 3 дня назад

      Nah, quality control not good. They have a blog post about why it’s ok to have misalignment. Says it all

    • @JohnLilley
      @JohnLilley 3 дня назад

      @@cableg01 lol Seiko are notoriious for misalignment, one of the big boys, My vaer is fine .

    • @cableg01
      @cableg01 3 дня назад

      @@JohnLilley my Vaer is not fine.

  • @myownbiggestfan
    @myownbiggestfan 21 день назад +10

    Islander Watches needs to make their logo about 30% smaller. I've seen watches sold as sports merch where the team logo was smaller than Islander's.

  • @petersimom
    @petersimom 26 дней назад +12

    In my opinion, Henry Archer is easily one of the best microbrands of 2024. They are excelling with their recent releases, especially Nordsø and Vesterhav. The last thing I would call their designs is 'boring' or 'bland.' Have you seen their purple or meteorite dial models?
    Also, for what it's worth, San Martin and Phoibos are not microbrands-they're both Chinese factory brands. 'Smiths' is another microbrand with a strong heritage, and you are completely leaving out one of the most beloved microbrands "Direnzo".
    The point of this video doesn't make much sense if you're 'rating' brands you haven't even tried, but have only looked at on a monitor.
    A title like '50 Budget-Friendly Watches on My Shopping List' would be more fitting.
    Anyway, that's just my two cents. :)

    • @FlorderreyVello
      @FlorderreyVello 13 дней назад

      So you know it better now. Then the Phoibos Microbrand Story is fake? Now the real microbrands make their watches in the basement? Most of them have connections to watch factories. Which other way do you have to start a brand?

  • @cheesychester9647
    @cheesychester9647 27 дней назад +19

    Henry Archer is so good tho

  • @bosco1603
    @bosco1603 25 дней назад +6

    some of these micro brands charging $500+ with nh34 movements are wild. you can literally build your own nh34 gmt for half that (with well finished cases), or just get a seiko gmt for under 350.
    i'm glad to see more micro brands embracing the miyota 9075. i was almost ready to pull the trigger on the nezumi, but i think i'll hold out to see what other brands come up with the movement before picking up my beater travel watch.

    • @MrLeSa95
      @MrLeSa95 17 дней назад

      seiko gmt is not going or 350 or under 350....

  • @cy9nvs
    @cy9nvs 25 дней назад +7

    I never had one, but from what I heard, Formex watches are seriously good in terms of quality. The Essence is actually pretty affordable, for a chronometer certified watch with such a good level of finishing, and I think the bracelet can be removed and micro-adjusted without tools as well.
    Also, the family of the CEO owns Dexel SA, which is a company that builds all sorts of components for other watch brands, including bracelets.

    • @jessem_i31
      @jessem_i31 21 день назад

      Yes, the Essence is a fantastic watch, a proper chronograph.

    • @EnglishTMTB
      @EnglishTMTB 18 дней назад +1

      I have an Essence Chronometer - great watch for the money, very solidly built and incredibly comfortable... Looks and feels twice the price, in all honesty - COSC certification is a bonus, I'd have paid that without it!

  • @lucien8476
    @lucien8476 26 дней назад +20

    Henry archer should be top tier easily

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  26 дней назад

      I'll check them out in person 🙏

    • @matthewpringle1978
      @matthewpringle1978 22 дня назад

      Agreed, great watches and even better customer service

    • @philiphenderson1518
      @philiphenderson1518 9 дней назад

      I was definitely kind of shocked he said they were bland.

    • @Pounderino
      @Pounderino 4 дня назад

      Blew me away with them at the bottom.

    • @sharpe8888
      @sharpe8888 3 дня назад

      They do look a bit boring considering the crowded microbrand competition now

  • @voidifremoved
    @voidifremoved 26 дней назад +6

    Really enjoyed this. Some microbrands I never heard of and will be checking them out. I dont agree with several of your placements but everyone is different.

  • @cheesychester9647
    @cheesychester9647 27 дней назад +4

    Love this video though. Keep up this kind of content. Exploring microbrand is so overwhelming.

  • @turradi1126
    @turradi1126 День назад

    Very informative and well done video. Thank you.

  • @davethebarber62920
    @davethebarber62920 3 дня назад +1

    Monta is my favorite microbrand. They're not cheap, in the Formex price range, but they're extremely high quality and beautiful watches.

  • @orzjr
    @orzjr 26 дней назад +8

    Great specs, good designs, insane prices...
    Thats why PD is exactly for me.
    Greetings from 🇧🇷

  • @marcussimmons7388
    @marcussimmons7388 27 дней назад +6

    Can’t believe you don’t include Scurfa! Alright I know there are more than 50 Microbrands, but their story is great.

    • @marcusmcewen9654
      @marcusmcewen9654 24 дня назад +1

      I have a Scurfa. it is a great value . The only problem is they’re sold out all the time.

    • @marcussimmons7388
      @marcussimmons7388 23 дня назад

      @@marcusmcewen9654 Lorier can be pretty tricky too

    • @zosothezephead837
      @zosothezephead837 22 дня назад +1

      I wonder if there's a microbrand called Dan Druff?

  • @Irmin-jn3np
    @Irmin-jn3np 8 дней назад

    very nice and helpful info! fun to watch buddy

  • @reconteam91
    @reconteam91 26 дней назад +1

    Thank you for this. I'm relatively new to microbrands and this helps my purchasing decisions!

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  26 дней назад

      Glad it was helpful! Good luck with the decisions

  • @thumper823
    @thumper823 8 дней назад

    Great review...thank you!!

  • @chinckennugget2015
    @chinckennugget2015 27 дней назад +1

    Great video mate👍

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  27 дней назад

      Thanks mate 🙏🙏🙏 hope all is well

  • @grahamwallace
    @grahamwallace 17 дней назад

    Fantastic video! One of the best pieces of watch content I’ve seen on RUclips.

  • @stevens1041
    @stevens1041 27 дней назад +8

    "San Martin" is a ridiculously annoying name. Its like someone that traveled to Spain and Italy once and stuck random names together, poorly inspired by their quick trip. The hype for them on youtube also rubs me the wrong way. Otherwise, a lot of great choices on here. I want to try Nezumi, they look interesting.

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  27 дней назад +1

      It's an awful name, but still somehow better than most other aliexpress brands 😂 I've seen some absolute shockers on there 👌🤣

    • @EnglishTMTB
      @EnglishTMTB 18 дней назад +1

      Yea it's not the best name... Yet somehow wouldn't put me off nearly as fast as a Henry Archer or particularly Christopher Ward would.
      And TBF, they're really well built for the money - lazy on the design side, with most being copies, but they're more than capable of building their own designs really well now (even if they're a minority of their catalogue!)

    • @thetattedpharmacist3215
      @thetattedpharmacist3215 3 дня назад

      @@TopTierTickerPrnspre is possibly the worst Ali name I’ve ever seen 😅

  • @jschoenzy9416
    @jschoenzy9416 10 дней назад

    This was a helpful introduction. I've always ignored micro brands and now I have a map to all the catalogs.

  • @kenrob4965
    @kenrob4965 27 дней назад +25

    missed the 2 best Microbrands out there mate, Direnzo and Tuseno.

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  26 дней назад

      Apologies 🙏

    • @walterschofield9153
      @walterschofield9153 26 дней назад +3

      I agree, DiRenzo is one of my favorites as well.

    • @jeffreyweiss1160
      @jeffreyweiss1160 26 дней назад +1

      Yep, I was thinking the same thing.

    • @FontanellaNorville
      @FontanellaNorville 25 дней назад

      There's no need to spend thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars on designer bags. Many fakes are almost identical to the real thing. You won't be able to tell the difference without going to a professional appraisal agency. I bought over a dozen fake bags at *hotdups* for the price of one genuine bag. You can't tell the difference. The difference between the real thing. You no longer need to worry about damaging your bag or getting mugged on the street.

    • @sirthom3275
      @sirthom3275 10 дней назад

      and helm.

  • @osPA78
    @osPA78 25 дней назад

    FANTASTIC video! What are your thoughts on LIV watches?

  • @davidfrew5450
    @davidfrew5450 27 дней назад +11

    As a novice watch collector, I will definitely be screenshotting the final grid and keeping an eye on some prices on these brands. Thanks for taking the time to make this! 💪👍

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  27 дней назад +5

      Be sure to try some of the brands I don't like too though, you might love them! That's the beauty of watch collecting... One man's trash is another man's treasure.
      Visit authorised dealers as much as possible. Get hands on with as many watches as possible. That's how you'll really develop your own taste 🙏

    • @bikerd72
      @bikerd72 26 дней назад +1

      Don't...make up your own mind and Google for more actual Micro Brands ! This Evaluation is just waaay too subjektive ( actually tempted to call it ludicrous quite frankly)

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  26 дней назад +1

      ​@@bikerd72 I've literally advised him to check out all the brands regardless of what I say. Read before you speak.

  • @cheesychester9647
    @cheesychester9647 26 дней назад +7

    One last thing, have you tried Monta? Any thoughts on the brand? They're right up there with Formex in price, but man, the quality on my Monta is up there with my Omega Aqua Terra.

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  26 дней назад +3

      Designs look beautiful. Prices look high 😆 you have to get hands on with models that are that price range to get a look at the details to really understand them.

    • @WaterJake
      @WaterJake 14 дней назад

      They are pricey for a microbrand but not for the quality. On the quality side they beat out every single brand on this list. On the design side, they are pretty straightforward but done very well.

  • @noduswatches5980
    @noduswatches5980 26 дней назад +1

    Fun video! Amongst some heavy hitters too!

  • @sinjinadams2862
    @sinjinadams2862 21 день назад +1

    I really liked this video because I'm being introduced to a lot of watch brands I've never heard of.

  • @j1d7s
    @j1d7s 27 дней назад +2

    That was serious fun and not too controversial for me, thanks! Because you asked, here are my views on some of the branches and mostly only those from which I owned or own watches:
    I would put Wise next to Zelos. I own watches from both brands and I must say Wise is up there quality-wise, my only bronze watch is their Adamascus Bronze and it is stunningly beautiful. What is even better than with Zelos is that you don't get completely stressed out trying to get one of their watches in the few seconds they are available in the online shop...
    Good point regarding the cases of Mister Jones watches, they really are super-boring. I own and love two of their watches, but it is all about what goes on behind the glass. I would love if they could get just a bit adventurous with their cases, too.
    I think that Isotope watches have a unique and recognizable look and I am sure the build quality is great (as it should be for the price). But they come off as a bit too playful and gimmicky with those round shapes especially for the hands, so I would put them into the decent category just because of personal aesthetics.
    I have an RZE watch and another one coming my way. These are extraordinarily well made, the Titanium 5 case is great, I have an RZE Resolute Pro with a yellow enamel dial and this color is just beautiful. I would have put RZE one higher.
    I find pure Bauhaus aesthetics quite boring and would have put Sternglas one lower, I am also getting way too many ads from them, that is another reason...
    I would put Henry Archer in the decent category, I have seen some reviews and they seem to be well built, the design is also quite recognizable, I was considering getting the Nordsø Iris on the beads of rice-y bracelet.

  • @dmcc6280
    @dmcc6280 23 дня назад +1

    Thanks for introducing a plethora of less known brands.

  • @dejuanmcguire9348
    @dejuanmcguire9348 10 дней назад

    @6:35 I bought that Dan Henry 1937 secondhand earlier this week and it arrived in my mailbox around the time I watched this video. Beautiful watch!

  • @Xxblaze191x
    @Xxblaze191x 24 дня назад +1

    There's sooo many microbrands now but imo Zelos, Traska, Baltic and Halios are all top tier and exceeded my expectations. Interesting to hear your take on CW and Formex, those are 2 brands I've been wanting to check out

  • @ghostboy929
    @ghostboy929 4 дня назад

    Maen and KUOE should absolutely be in top tier.

  • @jvduckmanton7162
    @jvduckmanton7162 26 дней назад +1

    Great vid mate. One of your best. Agreed with about 90%. I know you can’t add all the brands, but, ZeroWest and Helm make great watches as well. Cheers

  • @dmitryw.2209
    @dmitryw.2209 26 дней назад +2

    I feel like you could take a look at Straum. Is Anordain no longer a microbrand? Great video... agreed with almost all your choices - in particular I think Vario are some of the coolest watches for the price.

  • @jimmcmellen986
    @jimmcmellen986 25 дней назад +3

    Next time maybe think about reviewing Lillienthal Berlin?

  • @mohammadabdullah6707
    @mohammadabdullah6707 25 дней назад

    I must say, I enjoyed your list (almost wrote lust!) as well as your non nonsense approach.
    Truly well done.
    I have a question : As someone who prefers practicality, I love watches with large (NOT hardly readable) subdials with the most common needs (which, to me are) the day of the week, the month, and the day of the month.
    Sadly, so very, very few watches have this...but seeing your video makes me realise how MUCH is out there.
    Do you, please sir, have a list of said features? The Tokyo Calendrier is perfect, but is out of stock. Any (please!) Suggestions?

  • @user-oe9po2oj3o
    @user-oe9po2oj3o 27 дней назад +2

    Great video! What about Yema or Serica?

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  26 дней назад +1

      Yema is a legacy brand (love them BTW) and Serica look cool!

  • @pgrtwitto3783
    @pgrtwitto3783 26 дней назад

    Excellent! Love it!

  • @alexsavutube
    @alexsavutube 27 дней назад +2

    Confirmation bias or not is worth a subscribe. got a Zelos and a Phoibos, planing to get a CW - 12 after I sell a couple of corporation watches. I transformed a period corect pocket watch into a trench watch and I'm not sure Vario Versa would scratch the Reverso itch so the brand is on stand-by for me. Totally agree about San Martin, however I enjoy so much the panda Tudor clomage that Rolex will just have to find a way to survive, I'm keeping it. My wife is happy to hear that you aded Dan Henry, SWC and Straton on my wish list.

  • @adrewTakio
    @adrewTakio 25 дней назад +1

    Watch Yourself Jorge did a great micro brand tier list for anyone that's interested

  • @leepotter3562
    @leepotter3562 26 дней назад +1

    I love henry Archer. Great dials, on the fly adjustment,quick release bracelet, and great movements. Sapphire crystal front and back 200m water resistance, around £500 take a look.

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  26 дней назад +1

      I'll try one out at some point. Again, never dissed the quality or value, just said the designs don't appeal to me.

  • @patrickhartmann1540
    @patrickhartmann1540 21 день назад

    Excellent and comprehensive review of micros. I would put Traska and Maen in the must try.

  • @thewholecut
    @thewholecut 26 дней назад

    Great video Kieron! That Geckota you showed was very cool gonna have to check it out!

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  26 дней назад +1

      Beautiful isn't it! They have a few on their website as 'nearly new'...

    • @thewholecut
      @thewholecut 25 дней назад

      @@TopTierTicker Oh awesome decent price too for the specs!

  • @TheLute70
    @TheLute70 25 дней назад

    Really interesting video. I was unaware of most of those brands. Have you heard of Orion. Great designs but a little expensive.

  • @wi903060
    @wi903060 13 дней назад

    Thank you for the fun video! Halios (must try) and Helson (decent) are worth a mention IMHO. Maybe next time =) Cheers!

  • @MrBacchus18
    @MrBacchus18 26 дней назад +2

    I just received a white dial Helm Komodo in the mail today. Super impressed with the total package and I know I can resell easily for what I payed for it if I want to (I don't) I would put it in the "can't go wrong" tier. What do you guys think?

  • @dopenerd
    @dopenerd 27 дней назад +2

    Great tier list. Although I’d have Farer up at the ‘Must Try’ tier…but I get it they’re kinda pricey.

    • @zosothezephead837
      @zosothezephead837 22 дня назад

      I bought 2 and sent them straight back. The videos make them look much better than they are, which is kinda cheap.

  • @ulig12
    @ulig12 26 дней назад +7

    Good selection but sure you were missing some of the best:
    Tusenö, Draken, Borealis, Clemence, Helm, H2O, Steinhart, Dekla, Circula, Marc & Sons, Heinrich, Botta. The latter seven all German. But you had Sternglas, which in my eyes is not even worth mentioning.

    • @zosothezephead837
      @zosothezephead837 22 дня назад

      I bought 2 Bottas some years ago and although the watches are fine, they wouldn't fit in the boxes 🙄

    • @eggbertwyatt1287
      @eggbertwyatt1287 21 день назад

      Draken are god tier ❤

    • @AndreiLucaa
      @AndreiLucaa 20 дней назад

      What’s wrong with Sternglas? I haven’t seen any Junghans wannabe microbrands that go for the Bauhaus aesthetic

    • @ulig12
      @ulig12 20 дней назад

      @@AndreiLucaa There is nothing “wrong” with Sternglass. If you like boring Bauhaus designs in mediocre watches for too much money shoved down our throats by influencers, then go for them.

  • @Arabisc
    @Arabisc 15 дней назад

    Is the final list posted somewhere ? I watched the video but i would like the actual end ranking

  • @esmeraldadevries9182
    @esmeraldadevries9182 27 дней назад +1

    Totally agree with Phoibos. Stunning watches, great specs, great quality, affordable prices 👍

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  27 дней назад

      Love a Phoibos. I highly recommend them for anyone!

  • @holo2869
    @holo2869 7 дней назад

    This tier list is so personal, must be rearranged if to be used as reference for recommendation.

  • @paulgardner6388
    @paulgardner6388 27 дней назад +30

    I think you are wrong on Henry Archer (which FYI is the owner's name). All you have to do is handle one in person or wear it for a week and I am sure you will put it in can't go wrong.

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  27 дней назад +2

      I'll definitely give them a try at some point 🙏

    • @larrycross4114
      @larrycross4114 27 дней назад +8

      Is somebody that owns one Henry Archer now and has another one on order. How dare you not validate my choice:) I have one question before I jump off the nearest cliff, why is John Henry a more exciting name than Henry Archer? Or even Mr. George really?😄

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  27 дней назад +1

      I was simply offering an explanation as to why they maybe haven't caught my attention yet. I'm sure the quality if fantastic with them, but the designs they currently offer don't appeal to me.
      Also, you're correct, most other names are boring too!

    • @larrycross4114
      @larrycross4114 27 дней назад +1

      @@TopTierTicker I get it, just having some fun. Definitely going to check out some of the brands on your list wherever they fall.

    • @SpaceG95
      @SpaceG95 27 дней назад +5

      Henry Archer watches are fantastic. I had some hands on time with them at the District Time Watch Show in DC a few months ago. They are definitely brave and bold with the colors. Good quality feel. Very underrated 😊

  • @sweetcorn1968
    @sweetcorn1968 26 дней назад

    I'll need to watch it again, but I think you're generally spot on. You should've called it "Fifty more watches you'll want to buy!"

  • @mikecollings2808
    @mikecollings2808 24 дня назад

    I love the phoibos designs, bought the eagle ray and put it on a matching nato, great lasting lume too, will be looking to buy a different model soon

  • @bagelbutternut
    @bagelbutternut 21 день назад +1

    BOLDR is my favorite microbrand of choice, especially their venture lineup.

  • @neilwade9870
    @neilwade9870 23 дня назад

    Nice one, very interesting 👏👏

  • @nedflanders3769
    @nedflanders3769 26 дней назад +3

    You literally can’t go wrong with San Martin. Most of these brands borrow designs from other watches. So I don’t think that’s a good criteria for rating. But great video nonetheless!

    • @chrisbaker7760
      @chrisbaker7760 26 дней назад

      There's a difference between borrowing design language and making a one for one copy but with a different logo.

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  26 дней назад

      I appreciate your take. For me there is a difference, and that's what I appreciate. But, I understand people love them. I'm going to get some in for review soon

  • @she_loves_watches
    @she_loves_watches 27 дней назад +3

    A couple thoughts… most of the Chinese brands reviewed are pretty much total homage shops. I think Henry Archer pieces are pretty original & well made making them a solid value. IMO, Furlan MARRI very good but take their design cues from Patek. I have enjoyed my Serica pieces (French microbrand not mentioned). Thanks for sharing your opinions with us!

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  26 дней назад +1

      I'll definitely check out a Henry Archer at some point soon. I'm sure they're great, the deisngs aren't appealing to me?

    • @she_loves_watches
      @she_loves_watches 26 дней назад +1

      @@TopTierTicker I get that. We all have diff taste which is what makes life more interesting!

  • @jessem_i31
    @jessem_i31 21 день назад

    I bought a couple of the Depancel chronograph watches and I'm extremely happy with them.
    They're another brand that is unapologetically themselves. All vintage inspired racing watches.
    I for one love them.

  • @FlorderreyVello
    @FlorderreyVello 13 дней назад

    Some people here are disappointed because their watch is not in first place. I'm grateful for your video. I know a lot of brands, but not all of them. I will check every single brand I didn't know before and even the ones mentioned in the comments. I'm always looking for the special watch. Not so important to be Tier 1or Tier 4. It just has to catch my taste.

  • @mikesharkey6
    @mikesharkey6 2 дня назад

    Sir you have never held a Formex. They have better bracelets than Omega, Rolex or any big brand. Fantastic engineering.

  • @maxlvledc
    @maxlvledc 22 дня назад

    I didn't see Vaer...how would you have rated it?

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  22 дня назад +1

      I like Vaer. They have a good model structure. Designs are often a little on the safe side for my taste. They'd likely go into decent.

  • @stuartdavies7351
    @stuartdavies7351 27 дней назад

    The only Welsh micro-brand I am aware of is Shoreham Watches. They only have a range of three original designs in their collection at present. Each watch is named after a place in Wales. I have the dated Pembroke and extra straps. Worth a look/mention if you compile a UK only list.
    Another brand that rarely gets a mention is IWI Watches based in Darwin, Lancashire. I had the pleasure of a guided tour of his establishment with founder Ian Walsh sometime in the late naughties.

  • @johanvandersandt8904
    @johanvandersandt8904 26 дней назад

    Interesting! Having worked with many brands must give you a unique perspective as to how the quality and overall value differ between these! Out of curiosity where would you put a brand like Draken? Hope you have a great one Kieran!

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  26 дней назад

      They look pretty cool! the designs don't jump out at me and make me want to buy, but I like the style. Value seems decent too. Cheers Johan, hope all is well!

  • @joanjo8465
    @joanjo8465 21 день назад

    In general terms I agree with this classification but in micro brands the quality is usually similar...so the choice of one watch or another is based mainly on esthetic preferences. Good video!

  • @zosothezephead837
    @zosothezephead837 22 дня назад +1

    I no longer understand the blind love given to Dan Henry, when one of the Miyota movements they use - and continue to use - has a faulty crown, as reported by at least 2 reviewers, including The Urban Gentry. In short, you CAN go wrong with a Dan Henry.

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  22 дня назад

      They're beautiful watches. Surely beauty is one of the most important factors, no? I happily 'sacrifice' a couple of specs for a good looker'

  • @krisztianhodossy8848
    @krisztianhodossy8848 23 дня назад +1

    There is a brand in Hungary called Evolvens worth a look at.

    • @MrDownRater
      @MrDownRater 21 день назад +1

      Exactly what I wanted to say.
      It's made by a watch enthusiast engineer who is doing the work himself in a small studio and you can customize the watch on their website, definitely worth to check out.
      Also the brand is pretty popular between luxury watch collectors because they are making the best watchwinder boxes out there, 90 degree/quiet/modular/well built etc.

  • @wisamal-hakim5531
    @wisamal-hakim5531 25 дней назад

    Well done a good list and pretty fair
    Not entirely accurate for me but honest which I appreciate
    Monta?

  • @opticvisuall
    @opticvisuall 22 дня назад

    What's that sound in the very beginning when he says "crazy"? It is from the song, right?

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  22 дня назад

      It's just a random mysterious / spooky sound effect I found. I don't think it's from a song

  • @simonpringle3219
    @simonpringle3219 26 дней назад +2

    Neither Phoibos nor San Martin are microbrands for starters. NTH have several completely original designs apart from their submariner and Tudor influenced pieces. Henry Archer is widely acknowledged as a designer of original high quality watches. I know these lists are subjective but it helps to get categories right to have real credibility.

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  26 дней назад

      Phoibos is 100% a microbrand.
      The NTH and HA designs didn't appeal to me.
      Correct, it's subjective. Therefore, you shouldn't be upset when someone you like gets ranked low. That's typically how these things work.

  • @rikdriscoll2160
    @rikdriscoll2160 27 дней назад +5

    The most comprehensive list of microbrands! There's so many I've never heard of, which is great because it means I get to do some research on them.
    Dan Henry stands out for me, they've produced some lovely watches.
    Thanks Kieron, great video as always 👍

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  27 дней назад +1

      Thanks Rik, it's nice to see a friendly face in the comments 🤣🙏🙏🙏🙏

    • @rikdriscoll2160
      @rikdriscoll2160 26 дней назад

      @@TopTierTicker That one definitely got them going!! 🤣

  • @jhandal311
    @jhandal311 8 дней назад

    I think traska will be one that would change once you have one and experienced it. Great watches. Pretty spot on with the list glad to see i have a pretty good micro brand collection going 👍👍

  • @kevinmccalister8197
    @kevinmccalister8197 24 дня назад +1

    ''Today, lets do something crazy"'' Tierlists like every other RUclipsr and their mother. Lol.

  • @Zotrax1946
    @Zotrax1946 26 дней назад +5

    Well, I mostly agree about everything, except Henry Archer. Don’t own one yet to say their offerings are boring is a big stretch.
    I thought there would be more points of contention with so many brands..😉

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  26 дней назад

      I guess people really do love Henry Archer! Wow. I just find their current options a bit bland... I'm sure the quality is high though

  • @RageAgainstTime
    @RageAgainstTime 27 дней назад +1

    Nice video! Funny thing, my Islander and Vaer watches both broke within the 1 year mark. I don't see myself buying their products for a while. My Chinese watches (SM, PD, Baltany, Phylida, Tandorio and Corgeut) none had any issues so far. 🤣
    Zelos are beautiful, but I did end up selling 2 out of 3 from my collection, I don't see them as long term watches. They look cool at first but get old very quick in my opinion. I have 3 Venezianicos and I still don't see them going for sale, I like them. My next on the list to try is Baltic and Lorier

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  26 дней назад +2

      Nice, sounds like you've had some good experience with some cool brands. I'm surprised at the islander breaking! Contact Mark? Should still be under warranty....

    • @RageAgainstTime
      @RageAgainstTime 26 дней назад

      @@TopTierTicker yeah, I did... Unfortunately, they were already sold out of the watch I had so it was either trade in with something from their current listing or refund.. I got the refund this time.

  • @jarosawmigowicz1314
    @jarosawmigowicz1314 27 дней назад

    First of all great video.
    I would like to see some lesser known brands like Direnzo, Second Hour, Valimor or SÖNER but that's not the main point.
    The thing is I'm very sceptical when watch lovers say, that a chinese watchbrand watch is boring, has no identity or is just a clone of a more known watchbrand watch, but when it comes to some big watchmakers or other microbrands that release a watch that looks identical, the response is that they are always inspired by those watches, even if they are produced in the same chinese factories. That is a bit crazy.

  • @mariosoprano777
    @mariosoprano777 22 дня назад

    From all of the watches you mentioned. CW, Baltic and Studio Underdog are basically the holy trinity. Untouchable

  • @JAKTEE
    @JAKTEE 27 дней назад +2

    I was really excited for this upload, and it delivered. Nice to see an amazing array of micro brands, well done!

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  27 дней назад

      Glad you enjoyed it! This one took a looooong time to make 😆 thanks for watching

    • @FontanellaNorville
      @FontanellaNorville 25 дней назад

      Thats so funny, we used bought a LV bag at a LV store (..yes with a sales concierge) and the LV handbag cane with the fancy box, but with the cheap cloth bag... no drawstring!
      BTW... Palm Beach Gardens LV very snobish till you buy something... Now I always get the dupes from *hotdups* . I’m too poor for designer. I love seeing what’s in fashion, then putting it in my price range.

  • @brewwatchco
    @brewwatchco 26 дней назад

    ‘Can’t go wrong!” Fantastic - thank you very much for the appreciation! This was a great video.

  • @nintendokings
    @nintendokings 21 день назад

    Is that the OEM Casio Edifice bracelet you’re wearing?

  • @jerryglasses2229
    @jerryglasses2229 10 дней назад

    San Martin is definitely a cant go wrong. The quality for cost is unbeatable. Far superior to many on this list in higher categories. Seems like he just doesnt like homages. Ive owned 3 and all have been exceptional.

  • @HonestWatchReviewsHWR
    @HonestWatchReviewsHWR 24 дня назад +1

    How dare you say my Second Hour Mandala Burst is "lacking something". Just look at it in that great picture of mine at 0:46 😉
    Having San Martin in "Missing Something", but then having Baltany and Sugess in "Decent Watches" seems a little harsh to me. Especially now that San Martin are focusing more on original designs too. Which really got started properly with the San Martin SN0131G, which you can see another great picture of at 2:45 😉
    Really interesting video anyway mate.

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  23 дня назад +1

      Thanks for the photos mate 🙏 you've had some great titles and thumbnails recently 🤔😂😉
      I'd absolutely rank the San Martin original pieces higher... But they're one the worst offenders when it comes to copying (IMO). I see much more originality in the Sugess and Baltany catalogue. Even vintage copies are more tasteful IMO. I'm going to get a couple of SM's in soon and give them a chance (including a clomage). Thanks for watching mate 🙏🙏🙏

    • @HonestWatchReviewsHWR
      @HonestWatchReviewsHWR 23 дня назад

      @@TopTierTicker Thanks for noticing the new thumbnails and titles 😉😆
      Fair enough. That makes sense when you put it like that.

  • @KidsInCombat
    @KidsInCombat 26 дней назад +2

    San Martin good, Henry Archer bad? You can’t really speak on HA without having tried one, and in terms of design I really think you haven’t been looking very much for it. I’ve noticed that you mostly like diver or field watch styles so I really don’t agree with which watches are “good looking” in your opinion

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  26 дней назад +1

      But I didn't comment on the quality of HA, just the fact that the designs are a bit bland to me? Which is a diver btw so that ruins your argument. I can absolutely speak that the designs aren't for me, that doesn't take away anything from the brand.

  • @user-ke6xt1yl1l
    @user-ke6xt1yl1l 27 дней назад

    Hello and thanks for this video. Microbrands tier liste are not so usual to see. Of course I do not agree some of your choices. For example, in my opinion, Alkin is just boring, OutOfOrder or Undone are way not decent and if you put CW on "Must try" then Baltic should be at the same place. But that's all about taste, and I really liked the job you did. Finally, I only regret some missing micro brands like Direnzo, About Vintage, Fears, Awake, ... Perhaps will you do a chapter two. 😉

  • @progguy10
    @progguy10 26 дней назад +1

    you did traska dirty. they are a comfortable must try

  • @D3ZG1978
    @D3ZG1978 26 дней назад

    Been waiting for this, great video! A few aren’t micros though although many have stated.. Phoibos aren’t a micro either 😉

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  26 дней назад +1

      Why's Phoibos not a microbrand? And who's the person deciding what a micro is and isn't? 😂

    • @D3ZG1978
      @D3ZG1978 26 дней назад

      @@TopTierTicker it’s a micro brand database

  • @pwmaudio
    @pwmaudio 26 дней назад +1

    Traska as "decent" is an insult to their quality. I have a small collection of 30 watches, mostly micro brands but also Seiko, Panerei, Alpina, and Traska is right at the top. Finish, attention to detail and nearly unscratchable are the reason my Traska are my favorites among my collection

  • @manos00714
    @manos00714 22 дня назад

    What’s your opinion about Serica?

  • @chrislyall6251
    @chrislyall6251 27 дней назад +1

    Well where do i start,thank u 4 putting Koue an Baltic on the same level,but Pagani Design come on, i hear all the chat but Really.....
    Anyhow great review,my Brother keep up the fantastic work.

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  27 дней назад

      Again, I see the value in them. I appreciate what they offer... Just not for me. I'd much rather have a Casio at the price 🙏 but again, enjoy your Pagani, I see the value.
      Appreciate you watching mate, hope all is well 👍

    • @chrislyall6251
      @chrislyall6251 27 дней назад

      @TopTierTicker All good my brother 🙏

  • @blueonyx7628
    @blueonyx7628 24 дня назад

    Is Monta considered a micro brand? I would be interested in your thoughts regarding this brand.

  • @trefiori
    @trefiori 8 дней назад

    Great video/ Didn't know about 75% of the brands. Nice options to discover. Tip from my side of a brand that I find great value for money: Armand Nicolet. Besides that curios what you think about a few other brands: Ublast, Tecnotempo en Lilienthal Berlin.

  • @cornovii934
    @cornovii934 27 дней назад

    I like the look of Greek micro Ianos , only a small range of dive/tool watches but they look good (around £800/£1000), agree about Smiths .
    And if i get the all clear from the hospital tomorrow , tomorrow night i will be ordering a Mr Jones to celebrate .

  • @captainfatbat9557
    @captainfatbat9557 15 часов назад

    San Martin and Formex alongside Ciga Design and Formex 💀

  • @gt2745
    @gt2745 8 дней назад

    Should have included Dekla but you’d have had to make a tier above your top tier for them. Completely in-house and they sell watches for $1000 whilst making watches for luxury brands that cost $10k.

  • @udo3713
    @udo3713 26 дней назад +1

    I've never seen Maen produce an homage 🤔. What am I missing?

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  26 дней назад

      The Manhattan is a homage to an older vacheron model 🙏

    • @markwright2674
      @markwright2674 22 дня назад

      ​@@TopTierTicker Yes, but with a different dial design. Their other models are quite unique!

  • @winc06
    @winc06 27 дней назад +9

    I think for watched based youtubers you are a Must Try.

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  27 дней назад +1

      Thank you my friend 🙏 too kind

  • @rtb_21
    @rtb_21 19 дней назад

    Great vid mate, I've really enjoyed it!
    But why no Spinnaker on the list??
    Now, since we've hit the 1k likes mark you've asked for no problem, please include Spinnaker on that 100 brands tier list. I own 2 of their limited editions and since I consider you to be the top tier expert on affordable watches around here, I really would like to hear your take on them as a brand.
    Thanks in advance and keep up the good work! Cheers!

  • @adamoliphant4570
    @adamoliphant4570 16 дней назад

    Include Proxima watches. Their ETA clone movement is fantastic

  • @snail4376
    @snail4376 27 дней назад

    What do you think about about thorn?

    • @TopTierTicker
      @TopTierTicker  27 дней назад

      They look like exceptional value... But they're all copies. Not for me