Microbrand vs Independent Watchmaking

Cameron Weiss, master watchmaker and founder of family-owned Weiss Watch Company, dives into watchmaking in this new series.
This episode with Cameron Weiss discusses his opinions on the definitions of microbrands and independent watchmakers. Learn what separates the different categories and what makes each one interesting and unique.
Directed, shot, edited by Andrew Reed at the Weiss Watch Company workshop in Nashville, TN. weisswatchcompany.com #watchmaker #watch #watchrepair #watchmaking #craftsman

[@tomholloway7566]

I agree with all your comments on this Cameron. For me I think a micro brand buys in movements/eboushes and builds watches with cases that are available, an independent watchmaker is more someone who makes a significant portion of the watch. If we think about it Rolex were a micro brand until relatively recently. Thank you for the video

[@Onefourtyfour]

When I get my finances in order, I'm going to buy one of these watches solely because of Cameron. Well done, sir 👏

[@jlpower]

Great video Cameron, and diplomatic as usual! Great touch with the prototypes at the end.

[@thewheelieguy]

The division point for me is an independent does their own assembly and a microbrand uses a contract manufacturer.
An independent might bring in movement, case, dial, and hands from suppliers but their assembly is the key.

[@gackerman99]

the difference between Weiss and other American microbrands, from the perspective of a collector, is how seriously Weiss takes watchmaking as an art. I see the proliferation of microbrands as purely projects in industrial design, not watchmaking per se. That serves a serious need and is a good thing for the domestic industry generally. I see it going somewhere. But for me, they're all a bit cold and unfeeling. Seeing Cameron labor over these pieces and all the knowledge and passion he has is what makes him an independent and worth its place in serious collections.

[@johanvandersandt8904]

I guess the distinction makes sense. Its true we owe a lot to these companies... Big and small. Those still in business and those long forgotten.

[@sphandengraving5691]

So very well said

[@sphandengraving5691]

And super inspiring

[@ElderPinto254]

wauw some watchmakers have more hits than the beatles amazing

[@roygardner2374]

I see where one of your Florida microbrand watches said "C.Weiss" on the dial. I've been watching the secondary market for years, hoping to find one. Does Whitney still have hers?

[@Johnfsu]

I'd love to see a pic of that.

[@thewatchmakersworkshop]

These are extremely rare. Only a handful in existence. Whitney has one and my oldest daughter has one.