Let’s face it—Switzerland has long monopolized the narrative around fine watchmaking. But the modern horological landscape is shifting. Independent brands from the US and UK are redefining what it means to be a world-class watchmaker, combining innovation, authenticity, and handcraftsmanship to produce timepieces that rival, and in some cases surpass, their Swiss counterparts.
Here’s a contentious (and proud) list of the top 10 independent watchmakers from the US and UK who are challenging the dominance of the Swiss elite—and giving collectors a fresh reason to look beyond Geneva.
1. Roger W. Smith (UK)
The closest thing Britain has to a horological deity. Smith produces fewer than 20 watches a year, each entirely handmade on the Isle of Man. He’s the successor to George Daniels and arguably the most important living watchmaker not based in Switzerland.
2. RGM Watch Company (USA)
Roland G. Murphy is single-handedly restoring American watchmaking heritage from Pennsylvania. With in-house calibers, traditional guilloché, and made-in-USA cases, RGM is as authentic as they come—and not afraid to go toe-to-toe with the Swiss in quality.
3. Bremont (UK)
Love them or loathe them, Bremont is Britain’s most visible modern luxury watchmaker. Their aviation-themed, chronometer-certified timepieces are tough, stylish, and made in their own UK facility. They’re proving that British watches can have serious global swagger.
4. Vortic Watch Company (USA)
Taking American-made pocket watch movements from the early 20th century and turning them into rugged wristwatches, Vortic is reviving a lost piece of American horological history—with a healthy side of steampunk edge.
5. anOrdain (UK)
Glasgow’s enamel dial specialist. anOrdain combines stunning Grand Feu-style dials with minimalist design, producing timepieces that offer a rare blend of artistry and affordability. Enamel work like this, at these prices? Swiss brands should be sweating.
6. Weiss Watch Company (USA)
Hand-assembled in Los Angeles and now Nashville, Weiss watches marry California cool with American military heritage. Their simple, rugged field watches prove that you don’t need a Swiss passport to craft a proper tool watch.
7. Garrick (UK)
Possibly the best-kept secret in British watchmaking. Garrick creates hand-finished, low-production pieces with British-made movements and a distinctly classical design language. Each piece screams bespoke charm—without the Swiss markup.
8. Oak & Oscar (USA)
Chicago’s finest. Oak & Oscar brings limited-edition design, field-ready functionality, and clean American styling together in beautifully executed watches. With a cult-like fan base and zero pretense, they’re carving their own lane.
9. Farer (UK)
Colorful, quirky, and undeniably British. Farer watches are inspired by mid-century design, exploration, and a healthy dose of fun. Swiss-made, sure, but very much British at heart—and a great rebuttal to anyone who says character only comes from Switzerland.
10. Shinola (USA)
Let’s ruffle some feathers. Yes, Shinola gets hate. But no one can deny its impact in making American watchmaking visible again. With Detroit-based assembly and a focus on style and accessibility, Shinola has helped mainstream the idea that American-made can be luxurious too.
Final Thought:
These ten independents aren’t trying to be Swiss. And that’s the point. With local craftsmanship, unique narratives, and pricing that doesn’t demand a second mortgage, they’re rewriting the rules of luxury watchmaking—and giving traditional horology a much-needed shake-up.
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