The Microbrands To Watch In 2026

The microbrand segment of the watch industry has evolved dramatically over the last decade. What once felt like a niche corner of the horology world has grown into a thriving ecosystem of small companies producing thoughtful, design-driven watches. Some focus on value, others on originality, and a few are beginning to push the boundaries of what a small brand can achieve. In this episode of Fratello Talks, Nacho, Daan, and RJ discuss the microbrands they believe are worth keeping an eye on in 2026. These aren’t necessarily brands that just released something big; rather, they’re the ones the trio expects might do something interesting in the year ahead. Before diving into the discussion, though, it’s time for a quick wrist check.

Wrist check

It’s business as usual for Daan, who is wearing his Cartier Santos. This charming early-2000s reference makes us wish Cartier would return to the uninterrupted bezel. Whether that will remain exclusive to the Dumont models or not in the future remains to be seen. But looking back, this seems like a time when the Santos reached a sweet spot.

RJ has opted for his Omega Globemaster, a watch with plenty of historical cues but a thoroughly modern execution. This was the first production watch ever to obtain METAS certification. And even now, almost 10 years after RJ purchased his, it’s still running well within spec.

Nacho, fittingly, is wearing his Arken Alterum. As one of the brands discussed later in the episode, Arken is a good example of what makes microbrands exciting today — distinctive design, small-batch production, and a direct connection between creator and collector.

Fratello Talks: The Microbrands To Watch In 2026

The beauty of the microbrand segment is that it’s constantly changing. New names appear every year, and the most interesting brands are often the ones quietly building something behind the scenes. In this episode, Nacho, Daan, and RJ share the microbrands they believe could have an exciting 2026. These include well-established enthusiast favorites, as well as some slightly more under-the-radar players.

Microbrands often operate with a level of flexibility that larger companies simply can’t match. That freedom can lead to unexpected releases, unusual collaborations, or creative risks that make the hobby more exciting. Which of these brands feels poised to do something interesting in 2026? That’s the question we’re asking today. Arken comes up early as a brand that has established a unique style and approach that we’d love to see more of. Baltic and Serica are mentioned as examples of microbrands that have matured beyond the startup phase, each with a clear identity. The conversation also touches on Laventure and Lebois for their refined approach, while Ming and Holthinrichs represent the more design-driven side of the spectrum. Of course, these are just a few highlights; you’ll have to listen to hear the rest.

Now we’re curious: which microbrands are you watching this year? Let us know in the comments below.