The MicrobrandWatch Movement - Issue 2

I can’t tell you how great it feels to be writing the second issue of this newsletter. The response to the launch last month was incredible — thank you all for reading, sharing, and for being part of this growing community of independent watch enthusiasts.

There’s a lot to get into this month — from a standout British tool watch that’s got serious Cold War vibes, to a few upcoming releases that I can’t wait to get hands-on with, plus a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at traditional watchmaking right here in the UK.

So let’s dive in.

I’ve been spending time with the Abinger Nimrod, and honestly, it’s one of those watches that reminds you how much personality small British brands can pack into a design.

Abinger takes its cues from Cold War-era service pieces — functional, utilitarian, but with a modern edge that feels clean and deliberate. The brushed steel case, the crisp military-style typography, and that subtle texture on the dial all work together beautifully. It’s purposeful without being pretentious, and it feels built to be used, not just admired.

Inside, you’ve got a reliable automatic movement keeping things running smoothly, and the proportions hit a real sweet spot — compact enough for comfort, but with enough wrist presence to feel substantial. It’s the kind of watch that looks just as at home with a field jacket as it does under a cuff.

But more than specs or styling, the Nimrod captures something deeper — that sense of British engineering pride that comes from designing a tool to do its job well. Abinger has taken inspiration from the past, but built something that feels entirely its own.

We’ve also got a 10% discount code for anyone who is interested in purchasing the Nimrod - just check out the description of the video on YouTube.

🎥 Watch the full Abinger Nimrod review on YouTube →

🌕 Monro Luna Adventure – A watch that blends rugged practicality with a dash of lunar romance. Think field-watch toughness with celestial charm—the kind of concept that immediately catches your imagination. I’m hoping to get some hands-on time with it at the show.

🌿 Y Derwydd Noeth by JS Watches – A poetic name for a fascinating piece. JS Watches continues to blur the line between art and horology, and this upcoming release promises organic design with thoughtful finishing. Early images already hint at something very special.

🧭 McQuaide C1 – The follow-up to the Q1 that I reviewed a few months back, and one I’ve been eager to see in person. McQuaide’s debut made a strong impression with its clean, confident design, and the C1 looks set to build on that foundation — refining what worked while adding fresh character and detail. I’ll definitely be spending time with it on the show floor.

If you’re heading to Manchester too, I’d love to meet some of you in person. The best part of this whole project has always been the community — so if you spot me at the show (camera in hand, most likely!), don’t hesitate to come and say hi. It’d be great to chat watches, swap stories, and put some faces to the names I see in the comments.

Stay tuned for impressions and photos from Manchester — it’s shaping up to be an exciting event for the microbrand scene here in the UK.

Earlier this month, I had the chance to spend a day in Richard Day’s workshop in Wimbledon, London, and it was an absolute privilege.

Richard is one of those rare watchmakers who does things almost entirely by hand — designing, machining, and finishing every part with an attention to detail that borders on obsessive in the best possible way. Seeing his process up close gave me a whole new appreciation for the craftsmanship that goes into independent watchmaking.

We filmed a full feature while I was there, and I can’t wait to share it with you soon. Trust me, it’s so interesting — a real window into what it means to build watches the traditional way in the modern age.

🎥 Full video coming soon on MicrobrandWatch.

Before we wrap up, a big congratulations to Tom, our very first giveaway winner! Tom took home the Purple Haze Doughnut Watch Case — a seriously fun and functional bit of kit.

If you missed out this time, don’t worry — our next giveaway is just around the corner. I can’t say too much yet, but let’s just say it’s the perfect stocking filler for Christmas. Keep an eye on your inbox and the YouTube channel for details in the next few weeks.

And as always, I’d love to hear from you — what microbrands have caught your eye lately? What would you love to see featured next? Just hit reply to this email, or join the conversation on Instagram or YouTube.

Thanks again for being part of The MicrobrandWatch Movement — where we celebrate the independent watchmakers creating real value

Enjoy your watches!

– Dave Jones
MicrobrandWatch

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