👋 Hey everyone — and welcome to The Movement!
I’m genuinely thrilled to send out the very first issue of The MicrobrandWatch Movement.
If you’ve been following the YouTube channel, you already know what this is all about — celebrating the small, independent watchmakers who are doing things differently.
Welcome to the Movement!
This newsletter is a monthly space to go a little deeper: to highlight standout pieces, spotlight new releases, and share what’s happening behind the scenes at MicrobrandWatch. No hype, no sponsorship fluff — just honest impressions, thoughtful design, and a shared love for the passion and creativity that microbrands bring to the table.
Each month, you can expect:
🕐 A feature spotlight on a standout microbrand or watch.
🔭 A Watch Radar section with quick takes on new releases.
🎥 A Behind the Channel update on what’s next for MicrobrandWatch.
💬 And a Community Corner, where you get to be part of the conversation.
So grab a coffee, settle in, and let’s get into it.
🌊 Feature: Golby Aquareef — The All-White Diver with a Soul
If you’ve seen my recent review, you’ll know I’ve been completely taken by the Golby Aquareef. It’s one of those watches that reminds you why microbrands matter.
Designed by husband-and-wife duo Craig and Sarah Golby, this UK-based brand started from humble strap-making roots and has quietly evolved into a watchmaker with a distinct point of view.
The Aquareef is a study in restraint and purpose. The limited edition “All-White Monochrome” version I reviewed is both minimalist and bold — a rare balance to strike. The oil-pressed white dial flows like sea foam, the ceramic bezel feels premium, and the dual-crown world timer function adds legitimate utility without cluttering the design.
It’s powered by the reliable NH35A, cased in 41mm of stainless steel, and comes in at just over £300 on Kickstarter — which, in today’s market, borders on absurdly good value.
But what really stuck with me wasn’t the spec sheet — it was the personality. You can tell this watch was born out of genuine enthusiasm, not a marketing play. Every curve, every texture, feels considered. It’s the sort of piece that makes you pause mid-scroll and just appreciate what independent creators can do when they’re making watches for the love of it.
⏱️ Watch Radar: What’s on the Horizon
🌀 Slomo – A microbrand doing something brave, their upcoming debut piece embraces slow-beat mechanical art — less about telling time to the second, more about feeling the passage of time. I’m hoping to meet with Ben from Slomo when I’m in Toronto later this month to get a closer look at what they’re building.
🇫🇷 Amaros (Paris, France) – A new French brand preparing its first chronograph launch — and yes, I’ve already ordered one. The early prototypes look stunning: think vintage design with a clean modern twist — crisp dials, compact cases, and that unmistakable Parisian balance of form and function. I can’t wait for mine to arrive.
🇬🇧 Abinger – A British newcomer inspired by Cold War-era service pieces, and this one I actually have in hand. The crisp typography, brushed steel, and purposeful design come together beautifully. I’m already filming, so expect a full review on the channel very soon.
🎬 Behind the Channel
It’s been a busy month filming, writing, and planning. Coming up soon on the channel is my review of the Galvin Loimu Tuxedo, a piece that blends classic dress watch aesthetics with modern detail — followed by a sit-down interview with Susan Galvin herself.
She’s one of the most thoughtful voices in the microbrand space, and I can’t wait to share that conversation with you.
I’m also heading to London soon to meet Richard from Richard Day Watches, whose work on British-designed automatic timepieces has been turning heads for all the right reasons. Expect some behind-the-scenes stories from that visit in next month’s issue.
💬 Community Corner
The best part of MicrobrandWatch has always been you — the community.
I’d love to hear what you’re wearing, which microbrands you’ve discovered lately, and which watches you’d like to see me review next.
Your recommendations often lead to some of the most rewarding finds — if there’s a watch that deserves more attention, let’s give it the spotlight it deserves.
🙌 Until Next Time…
Thanks for being part of The MicrobrandWatch Movement — where we discover the independent watchmakers creating real value.
Stay curious, stay passionate,
– Dave Jones
MicrobrandWatch