Manchester Watch Show: Must-See Brands!
On the eve of my birthday and right before I attend the Tokyo Watch Wow event in Tokyo, I decided to write about Manchester Watch Show, even though I won't be attending. I'm doing this for a couple of reasons. For one, almost all of my English-reading audience are based in Europe and North America. For another, I have other content planned for Tokyo Watch Wow. However, the most important reason is: I just really like the brands attending the show in Manchester, and I think after this article - if you weren't already interested in them - you might just be somewhat intrigued.
Beaucroft Watches: As Good As Its Popularity Suggests
I recently got the Arc in for review (more on that in an upcoming article) from Beaucroft, and while I wasn't surprised by its beauty and great quality, I was still quite impressed. Yes, I've seen all the reviews talking about how great Beaucroft is, and how the value-for-money is nigh unmatched. But, when I actually got it on my wrist? It was like finally going to the new trendy restaurant and discovering that it is actually as good as people have been saying.
Habring²: Watchmaking Will Never Die
Habring² is an independent Austrian brand founded by Richard and Maria Habring (hence the brand name), and they made a name for themselves by building their own deadbeat seconds movement. Deadbeat, which may have negative connotations in a different context, refers to a complication which "causes the second hand of a mechanical watch" to tick once per second, just like a quartz watch, instead of the smooth sweep of your normal mechanical.
Now this is a bit of a contentious movement depending on the collector, but I, for one, love it. I have never had the chance to see it in person, but I think Habring² is responsible for some real, honest-to-goodness watchmaking at a much more affordable level than almost any other independent or microbrand can claim.
Walker & Crown: The 80s Was Actually Cool!
You may have already seen my videos and articles about Walker & Crown, but just in case you haven't, then let me introduce you to the newly launched UK microbrand, founded by Jonny Walker (yes, that is his real name) and his wife Colette. Together, they fully self-funded the creation of four unique, 80s music-inspired wristwatches that powered by Miyota 9 series movements, a terrific bracelet, and beautifully designed dials.
Unlike all of the other brands mentioned in this article, they are the only ones making their debut, so that's definitely cool, and worth checking out. I would also like to note that my microbrand, Wancher Watch, will also be displayed at their table, so I won't claim to be completely unbiased. You can also pre-order their watch from their website right now.
Mezei Watch Company: Beauty & Function?
Mezei Watch Company was founded by Sandor Mezei and very quickly made a name for itself with their distinct dials, powerful contrasting colors, and well-finished cases at sub-500 USD prices. If Sandor had stopped there, he could just pat himself on the back, and call it a day. Fortunately for all of us, he wasn't complacent, and decided to create a tourbillon watch. Not only that, this tourbillon is only 10mm thick, which is insane.
The Eclipse (blue) and Sienna (burnt orange) Tourbillons are available for order now, but expect fulfillment in December. Or, you can go to his table in Manchester, and see if you can cajole him into selling to you on the spot. Either way, you should definitely check it out!
Vario: Always My Favorite
Okay, it's no secret that the Singaporean brand Vario is one of my favorite brands of all time. If you have been following my website for awhile, then you'll know that Vario has been my favorite for awhile now. The Vario Versa Automatic was even my Watch of the Year.
Fresh off their recent appearance at Windup Watch Fair in New York, Vario is not resting at all, and he's ready to take Manchester by storm. Make sure you check out his table (although it will most likely be crowded), and say hello on behalf of The Watch Brief!
Christopher Ward: The Big Dog Deserves Credit
Everyone knows Christopher Ward. In fact, I am willing to guarantee that if you've made it this far into my article, you absolutely know Christopher Ward. Credited as being the original microbrand since the early aughts, this British independent powerhouse has been hitting homeruns on a monthly basis with their releases (or I guess the Polo or Cricket equivalent, since they're British?).
More recently, they blew everyone away with their follow-up to the sporty C12 Loco with the Ode to Haute Horology modern masterpiece C1 Loco Classic (can you tell I'm a fan?). Yes, they are popular. Yes, they are the Big Dog that everyone already knows is good. But you know what? That doesn't mean you should skip their table. Sometimes, you just gotta go and see for yourself why they've reached the heights that they have.
Manchester Watch Show: Too Many Good Brands
Since I have dinner plans to rush off to, I'm afraid I can't write multiple paragraphs about each brand, but they still deserve a mention. Area Nostalgia, the new brand started by the Youtuber known as Top Tier Ticker, will be at the show with his new Mantle collection, and they are sure to be popular. McQuaide Watches, known for their damascus steel pieces, will also be there, and if you've never held a watch made of Damascus Steel before, then let me tell you it is a must-try. Then there are the "older" microbrands like Baltic and Farer, which everyone knows about, as well as independents like Horage and Formex (which I adore).
I love watch shows because for the most part, there's no real pressure to buy. Of course, it's hard not to buy, but it's just great to be with other enthusiasts, and to be able to share this hobby with hundreds (if not thousands) of other people.
For more information, visit the Manchester Watch Show website.
Well written! Vario is my favorite too.