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Major Microbrand Watch Releases: Vario, Isotope, Monbrey, & More!
As watch enthusiasts, itās great to stay updated, but realistically, thereās only so many watches we can track. So, I have made the ultimate sacrificeā¦ and taken it upon myself to research some truly awesome brands, and condense it into one article. I know, Iām a saint!
All jokes aside, it was great to put together this list, and I enjoyed talking with over a dozen brand owners.
Jilliano Romano
9 hours ago8 min read
Makiya Watches: How Much Do You Want to Pay?
While enthusiasts debate what defines a watchmaker and the importance of making the movement, we often forget about another important factor with any watch: the dial. This is the area in which Makiya Tokei Founder, Adriel Rahisana, focuses all of his passion, creativity, and energy.
But what is it about the dials of Makiya, and what differentiates them from any other?
Our Favorite Watches of 2026 So Far
We are over halfway through the year, and while many - including the rest of the editorial team - were somewhat underwhelmed by the recent Watches & Wonders, it doesn't mean that there weren't some good watches released this year. The following is our favorite watches of 2026, which includes new releases, new additions to our collection, or in some cases, watches we don't even have in our possession... yet.
The History of Chronographs
One of my favourite complications in watchmaking is the humble chronograph. At first glance, some might question its relevance in an age when precise timing is always within reach on a smartphone. And itās true ā when Iām cooking and need exact timing, I often reach for my phone without a second thought. But my appreciation for the chronograph goes far beyond practicality. To me, it represents something far more compelling: beauty, history, and a certain romantic spirit.
Vandaag Baas Eleganz Review: My New Favorite German Watch
Prior to getting this watch, I would probably have told my non-enthusiast friends to get an Orient Bambino, a Seiko Presage, or even a Hamilton Jazzmaster for their daily watch at the office. Now that Iāve had the Vandaag Baas for around a month, I canāt in good conscience recommend those other watches without also recommending this as the top choice. With its sub-1000 EUR price, classic design, and unique date window, this may just be the perfect watch for daily life.
The Bausele Elemental Review: More Than Just an Australian Watch
Iāve always had a soft spot for Australian watchmaking.
Maybe itās because Australia has always felt like a second home, albeit one that is quite far away. Iāve been lucky enough to visit a couple of times over the years, and every trip leaves me wanting to come back. In fact, we have another trip planned for 2027. That connection is part of the reason Bausele has always fascinated me.
Unlike many microbrands that rarely rely on provenance, Bausele is proudly Australian
Vario Versa Automatic Review: A Triumph of Watchmaking
My favorite watch - by far - has been the Vario Versa - Year of the Horse. I have reviewed this watch on both this blog, as well as my Youtube channel, and it remains my most-worn watch of the year.
It's a beautiful and brilliant watch, and it's one that I thought would easily win as my favorite watch of 2026.
Imagine my surprise when that watch was replaced by the Vario Versa Automatic.
Makiya Watches: How Much Do You Want to Pay?
While enthusiasts debate what defines a watchmaker and the importance of making the movement, we often forget about another important factor with any watch: the dial. This is the area in which Makiya Tokei Founder, Adriel Rahisana, focuses all of his passion, creativity, and energy.
But what is it about the dials of Makiya, and what differentiates them from any other?
Our Favorite Watches of 2026 So Far
We are over halfway through the year, and while many - including the rest of the editorial team - were somewhat underwhelmed by the recent Watches & Wonders, it doesn't mean that there weren't some good watches released this year. The following is our favorite watches of 2026, which includes new releases, new additions to our collection, or in some cases, watches we don't even have in our possession... yet.
The History of Chronographs
One of my favourite complications in watchmaking is the humble chronograph. At first glance, some might question its relevance in an age when precise timing is always within reach on a smartphone. And itās true ā when Iām cooking and need exact timing, I often reach for my phone without a second thought. But my appreciation for the chronograph goes far beyond practicality. To me, it represents something far more compelling: beauty, history, and a certain romantic spirit.
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