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13 Best British Watch Brands To Put On Your Horological Radar

Switzerland, and particularly Geneva, may be the centre of the world when it comes to the design and manufacture of watches, but plenty of other locations are notable for their contributions to the art.

Glashütte in Germany is home to some high-quality brands like A Lange & Sohne as well as Nomos.

Tokyo in Japan is the birthplace of Seiko, timelord of a number of brands ranging from utility to luxury while Mt. Iwate in Japan for all devoted horophiles is the birthplace of Grand Seiko, the creator of high-beat mechanical movements.

And there’s the legendary Spring Drive movement, taking decades to perfect and a true icon in the field.

But since the world sets its ticker via Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), let us start in good old Blighty.

Britain, (Enter dramatic voiceover) A nation of shopkeepers according to Napoleon, the British Isles is renowned for many things…Hadrian’s Wall, Stonehenge, fish and chips, The Royal Family, Ed Sheeran, owner of the elusive Neptune Blue Moonswatch and more.

And by the way, it’s the country that saw the dawn of timekeeping.

The Clock Strikes With The Emergence Of British Watchmaking

The growth of the Empire owes a huge debt to British watchmakers Cucumber sandwiches and a spot of tea anyone? UK watchmakers like John Harrison created the first ever UK chronometer and used it to calculate how to find longitude at sea.

This enabled Captain James Cook to make his voyages of discovery in the late 18th Century and established the navigation practices that advanced Britain across the globe. From then until the beginning of the 20th Century, Britain led the way in both design and manufacture of models.

In 1800 more than half the world’s timepieces, around 200,000 were made in London, and the world’s most famous brand, Rolex, was actually founded in London in 1905, before relocating to Switzerland.

The Great War saw Britain’s great engineers turn their attention to battle. However, the industry stagnated so much so that the country was never able to catch up with the rapidly growing manufacturing capabilities taking place globally.

The United States and Switzerland signalled the beginning of the mass production of models.

Unfortunately, Britain has lost far too much ground to ever compete with Switzerland and Japan as far as volume of production is concerned. But like the Hulk, they are fighting back and attempting to smash their way into this increasingly competitive sector.

There are still several notable British watchmakers. Bremont is perhaps the best known. Many people judge the ability to manufacture movements as the very definition of a serious, luxury company. Bremont has designed its own in-house movement, and many of its parts are produced in the UK.

Another company aspiring to produce everything within our borders are UK watchmakers Garrick. Established in 2015, the Norfolk company has already designed its own movement in collaboration with Swiss horophiles UhrTeil.

Garrick is still on the smaller side, selling around 70 timepieces a year ranging from £2,500 up to £50,000.

At the very height of horological mastery, one of the world’s most respected UK watchmakers is Roger Smith. Based in the Isle of man, his mentor was George Daniels, creator of the coaxial escapement employed so brilliantly by Omega.

Mr. Smith makes a small number of models, all by hand with immaculate precision. They cost around £100,000…if you can track them down.

For something a little out of the ordinary and with a different heritage, sometimes it pays to look a little closer to home than Switzerland. So, without further ado, Chrono Hunter is ready and set to cover the 13 best British watchmakers for the ultimate flex appeal.

1. Bremont

Brief History Of Bremont

Founded in 2002, Bremont’s pieces are heavily inspired by aviation.

Following the same kind of far-flung storyline you’d hear in your local pub, brothers Nick and Giles English (how British can you get!), were flying across France in the late 1990s. The engine failed and they were forced to land in a farm. Stay with us.

They were taken under the wing of a kind farmer who was an avid engineer and happened to be a keen horological fan.

What are the chances! He was called Antoine Bremont. Following a disaster with the brothers father passing away in 1995 during an air display, the pair lost their passion for flight and instead focused on making mechanical items, including watches.

In 2021, Bremont went one step further by opening a specialised “Bremont Manufacturing & Technology Centre” nicknamed The Wing. This giant facility allows them to make around 50,000 watches a year which was a large growth from their original 10,000 figure.

These UK watchmakers have since become one of the best British watch brands in the land.

The High-flying outfit went on to earn a range of awards at events including SVBA Large Business Of The Year by South & Vale Awards in 2019 and Luxury Watch Brand Of The Year by Retail Jewellery Awards in 2013.

Featuring ambassadors like SAS Who Dares Wins star, Jason Fox and other adventurers like Commando Aldo Kane and Juan Oliphant, these pieces are made for those adventure seekers.

Across the board, all core Bremont models are COSC or ISO Chronometer certified, ensuring water resistance and high powered movements within them.

Top Collections

Altitude

PRICE RANGE - £3,195 - £5,995

The Altitude line is considered one of Bremont’s most reputable and respected lines. An out and out aviation timepiece, they are available in a range of materials, including rose gold, steel, titanium and black DLC.

Source - Bremont

Given classic pilot circular style faces, they are extremely legible as they showcase either large Arabic numerals or triangular hour markers. Featuring Spitfire plane inspirations in the ALT1-C Griffon to the iconic dual sub counters chronograph style of the ALT1-C, the Altitude line ranges from a modern 34mm to a sizable 43mm case diameter.

Some models have GMT functionality like the ALT1-ZT/51 which shows that they are made for discerning travellers, alongside the gent in the cockpit.

Supermarine

PRICE RANGE - £2,950 - £6,100

We all live in a yellow Supermarine.

That seems to be the case with this model from one of the best British watch brands out there. The Supermarine represents Bremont’s diving watches with a healthy amount of that flight influence.

This line opts to use the instantly recognizable Trip-Tick case construction. It uses an unconventional three part build, the case bezel and a middle and back in order to protrude the classic Bremont visuals.

Source - Bremont

The Supermarine line is a perfect entry-level luxury model which is simple but instead opts for utility as they are only available in steel and black DLC. Ranging from case diameters of 40mm to 43mm, they offer an impressive 300 to 500 metres of water resistance.

We are talking about Submariner levels of submergence here.

Keeping with either black, grey, white or blue dials, the hour markers closely follow The Rolex Submariner which are filled with lume alongside the arrow shaped hands. As opposed to a diving scale, the bezels are made up of a 24 hour scale, just like pilot timepieces, showing Bremont’s aeronautical influence.

Featuring chronograph or GMT functionality, they range from the white faced chronograph S300 Vigo in steel, other lines have GMT features like the Waterman Apex II.

Motorsport

PRICE RANGE - £4,195 - £8,295

Gentlemen, it’s time to start your engines and buckle up.

Now Bremont isn't just a one trick pony. Like Tudor’s first ambassador David Beckham they are able to spread their wings in different directions and enterprises. Their Motorsport line tips a hat to famed companies like Jaguar and Williams F1, by offering collaboration pieces.

Source - Bremont

Measuring 43mm, they are crafted out of steel and black DLC and total around 100 metres of water resistance. The bezel features a tachymetric scale to link with measuring racing laps on the track, alongside classic chronograph functionality with either two or three subcounters.

With pieces like the Jaguar C-Type which celebrates 70 years of the Le Mans race in 2023 to Bremont WR-22, in association with Williams Racing, all these feature strong racing influences and are packed with energetic spirit.

William Wood

Brief History Of William Wood

William Wood has a history steeped in bravery and putting their lives on the line. Quite literally!

Founded by Jonny Garrett in 2017, they have taken strong inspiration from a very unlikely source. Inspired by his grandfather, William Wood, he served as a firefighter for over 25 years and won many commendations and a Certificate of Merit for his service.

William Wood’s emblem has therefore taken the form of a firefighter's helmet which suggests bravery and is a constant present on both the caseback and dial.

This was taken to the extreme when they melted an original 1920s firefighter helmet, a la Cartier Crash, and used it on the back of the Chivalrous collection. It might not be the art of chivalry in the truest sense of the British term but you cannot argue with the dedication to his craft.

Now, William Wood has exploded in popularity, reaching 50 different territories, donating over £123,000 to International Firefighting Charities. This is more than a name… It’s easily one of our best British watch brands' inspiring institutions!

Top Collections

Triumph

PRICE RANGE - £2,525 - £2,795

The Triumph collection covers a range of lines, including the Heat Edition, Oxygen, Fuel, Jubilee and Coronation. The Triumph collection only uses the finest movements which are sourced from the very reputable Sellita (Swiss movement!), offering around 28,800VpH and a weekend proof 48 hour power reserve.

Source - William Wood

The dials are inspired by a Fire Engine Cockpit, such as the dashboard gauges for sub counters and pressure pump style hands within them. How about the chronograph hand and 30-minute subcounters which are operated by vintage, brass finish style buttons that relate to the legendary firemans helmet?

The backs are designed with a “Fire Alarm Break Glass” exhibition view, pertaining to the history of the William Wood line. Using recycled fire hoses for the straps and crowns embossed with the fire helmet logo which is constructed out of real brass helmet.

Talk about top brass manufacturing.

Chivalrous

PRICE RANGE - £495

This is their more dressy line which utilises materials like steel and rose gold to present sleek and effortless models at a more affordable price point.

Source - William Wood

For this line, William Wood has taken 1920s UK brass firefighters helmets, melted them down into commemorative coins, placed them into the casebacks and sealed them with a sapphire crystal. Ranging from gun metal to chocolate and rose gold, all of them are capped at 250 pieces.

Fitted with the same recycled firehouse straps, they are very minimalist, featuring nothing but baton hour markers, sword shaped hands and are powered by quartz movements. The best bit is the battery life. How about 10 years to boot?

Fearless

PRICE RANGE - £920

The Fearless line is William Wood’s exclusive sports line. And this range pulls no punches.

Source - William Wood

Ranging from 41mm to 39mm case diameters, all these watches feature charcoal dials with a textured effect like rough tarmac. This is the ideal model for sprinting through a burning building as all of them are built out of stainless steel and finished with a matte black coating.

Available in red, yellow and orange, the casebacks feature a UK firefighters helmet. Each of the glass visors are coloured to match the three possible options. This also allows you to see the Seiko Group NH35 movements with a 41 hour power reserve and 21,600VpH (3Hz).

Capped at 250 pieces per category, the straps are made out of repurposed fire hose straps and the crowns feature the iconic brass firefighters helmet. All the dials are filled with green Super-Luminova across the rose gold numerals for added visibility.

Although it makes us want to burst out into a rendition of London’s Burning, this collection may light the fire within some enthusiasts' bellies.

Studio Underd0g

Brief History Of Studio Underd0g

Considered by many as their best British watch brand, especially among Gen-Z consumers, Studio Underd0g’s dials are as colourful as Jason’s Dreamcoat. Like John McEnroe, they do not like to act so seriously as this brand looks past the misery to bring a playful fun into the horological world.

The brainchild of Richard Benc, they have only been ticking along since March 2021. Conceived throughout the worldwide lockdowns of 2020, Richard laid out his design ideas and presented it to his Facebook community.

He received overwhelming support for a vibrant timepiece which spurred him on to follow through and start Studio Underd0g

Starting as a watch designer for Braun, he expanded out of the classic German formality and branched into the weird and wonderful. Sure, this is a fresh upstart company…a potential disruptor if you will.

But so far the accolades have been non-stop! Is it time to crack open the bubbly and smoked salmon canapes yet?

Nominated for awards from huge events and platforms like GPHG and Watchpro, it goes to show that this is only the start on this epic horological journey. They are all about their community. The “Pizza Party'' is the next drop to expect and the pizza inspired timepieces.

Showcasing pizza style dials with different toppings like pepper0ni and mushrooms, they can only be received directly from founder Richard Benc at one of his fairs.

Thanks for putting Britain back on the map, chaps!

Top Collections

01Series

PRICE RANGE - £500

The original OG from the company, the 01Series may appear rather basic in title, but within is perhaps the most exciting thing since Oris released a Kermit inspired watch or the answer to the discontinued Cellini in the form of the Rolex 1908. However, this is no goofy, Sesame Street walk in the park. These are the real deal of high craftsmanship, supported with a powerful engine.

Source - Studio Underd0g

One such branch is the ahem, rather interesting Watermel0n model. Crafted out of 316L steel, they have a 3 part construction with a wearable 38.5mm case diameter. Featuring a pink centre with green inner tachymetric scale periphery, the watermelon theme is complete!

This one is definitely for the more flamboyant flexors out there who don’t mind a more brighter horological palette. These crazy styles feature small seconds and a 30 minute sub counter at 3 and 9 o’clock.

Continuing right through to a Desert Sky variant with a blue centre and sandy periphery and even the Go0fy Panda which combines a black periphery with a sunburst style white centre. And if you are hungry to find out more about some of the best panda dial models to buy, take a look at our outstanding guide below;

Chrono Hunter's Must-Have Panda Dial Chronographs

02Series

PRICE RANGE - £800

The 02Series feature four gorgeous field timepieces that have the durability to stick out the dirty terrain no matter what, but intertwined with a red carpet ready style.

Source - Studio Underd0g

One edition is the Pink Lem0nade which features a tropical pink to yellow gradient that runs from 12 to 6 o’clock. Boasting Arabic numerals and hands with a clear strip of lume, the steel editions offer a sheen which has never been seen before in the industry.

Very much like Daniel Craig’s white dial Omega Speedmaster that nearly broke the internet.

How about the Steffany Blue which has a pastel blue sheen and high contrast orange lume hands? Perhaps none are quite so eye-catching as the Full Mo0n which may appear like Studio Underd0gs most basic cream shade, but has a multi-layer dial which features a seven layer custom blue Super-Luminova luminous base.

Turn the light off and see the shine!

Christopher Ward

Brief History Of Christopher Ward

There’s been a lot of strange histories behind some of these best British watch brands. Perhaps they are none quite so peculiar as Chistopher Ward.

Featuring three men in a boat (no, not the title of a children’s best seller) Mike France, Peter Ellis and Chris Ward took to floating down the Thames one fine, sunny day in May 2004.

After Mike and Peter had sold their Early Learning Centre business and Chris was finished with his dealings in T-shirts, it was high time they decided to start a horological company.

After originally releasing the C5 Malvern Automatic and the C3 Malvern Chronograph, they placed an ad in the Independant to build notoriety. Horological expert Dave Malone picked up the ad and released a sterling review, waxing lyrical about the build quality and phenomenal ETA movements.

Christopher Ward catapulted into the stratosphere of horology, eventually releasing their own Calibre SH21 which represented the first British mechanical movement in over 50 years.

We salute you. Rule Britannia, Britannia rules the waves…

Top Collections

Sealander

PRICE RANGE - £685 - £1,550

The C63 Sealander collection was designed in England, but actually constructed in Switzerland. As part of Christopher Ward's sporty lineup, they are available in colours ranging from burgundy to green.

Source - Christopher Ward

Crafted out of steel, carbon or titanium, they offer case diameters ranging from 38mm to 41mm with the capability of either standard timekeeping or GMT functionality. Providing 150 metres of water resistance, they are powered by the Swiss made Sellita SW200-1, 28,800VpH (4Hz) and a 38 hour power reserve.

The Twelve

PRICE RANGE - £70 - £2,195

Another addition to Christopher Ward’s sport infused watches creating more of a stir than the 2024 Rolex price increase, The Twelve comes in both steel and titanium. There are even additions with a precious metal bezel.

Source - Christopher Ward

Made with a very slender dodecagonal case alongside a sublimely polished bezel and integrated bracelet, it very much has the look of the Zenith Defy Extreme Mirror. They are powered by the Sellita SW300-1 movement which is COSC certified and enables a power reserve of 56 hours.

Again available at 38mm to 41mm, the faces all have an embossed pyramid pattern from deep greens to summer blues. Suffice to say, you will look great if you opt to wear this with a formal suit or informal jeans and T-shirt for those more casual days.

C1 Bel Canto

PRICE RANGE - £3,195 - £3,530

The C1 Bel Canto is Christopher Ward’s flagship collection that’s primed on immense technical innovation. And all for under £5,000.

Source - Christopher Ward

Utilising their genius FS01 module atop the powerful Sellita SW200-1, these grade 5 titanium models are built to not only be incredibly durable, but have a highly unique function that only the top horological companies can attest to.

Sized at 41mm, they allow for a hammer to strike every 60 minutes in order to mark the hour. Commonly known as Sonnerie au Passage among horophiles, the colours cover a number of shades, including saffron purples and rich greens.

The chime can be turned off at 4 o’clock if you find the noise annoying or you happen to be in the middle of an important board meeting. Offering a floating time display alongside a 38 hour power reserve, these models are simply stunning pieces of engineering.

Fears

Brief History Of Fears

We know Blancpain is the oldest luxury Swiss horological company dating back to 1735. Presenting another of our next best British watch brands who has such longevity… Fears!

Originally established in Bristol way back in 1846. Established by Edwin Fear who worked in a small workshop, the business continued to expand, resulting in a second workshop opening in 1866. Edwin died in 1877, prompting Amos Daniel Fear to take the timekeeping reins as the second managing director.

Fears (as they were eventually known during the early 1930s), created an exotic department which was designed for exporting timepieces in 1920. And this was before people raised this term through the infamous Daytona dials associated with Paul Newman.

In 1931, Amos Reginald Fear stepped into and eventually out of the Wall Street crash with a booming business, exporting to over 95 countries. Sadly, Fears shut in 1976 following the long term, disastrous effects of the Blitz, directly blowing up or severely damaging all of their properties in Bristol.

But in 2016, Nicholas Bowman-Scargill, the great-great-great grandson of Edwin Fear decided to reopen the business and launched the first model from the company in the 21st Century, The Redcliff.

In the contemporary era, Nicholas has continued to progress Fears timepieces and has evolved into a prized company, releasing new designs like the Archival 1930. The Bristol brand later joined the UK Government's GREAT Britain campaign in 2020.

Top Collections

Brunswick 38

PRICE RANGE - £2,458.33 - £2,791.67

Crafted out of steel, The Brunswick line is built into a cushion shaped design, promoting ergonomic wearability which is both brushed and polished via a machine to a precious metal standard.

Source - Fears

This manual wind model is given an onion style crown with a ridged edge to promote easy winding. They are powered by the ETA 7001 calibre which powers the hours, minutes and subsidiary seconds residing at 6 o’clock.

Capable of reaching 100 metres of water resistance, they come in a range of shades, including salmon, champagne, white and a boutique edition with a dark green shade.

Brunswick AU

PRICE RANGE - £17,850

Sized at 38mm, this particular line takes inspiration from the original cushion shaped pieces that were originally released in 1924. Crafted entirely out of 18K yellow gold, they take around 100 hours to shape and polish, including the crown which is fitted with a diamond.

Source - Fears

Available in oxblood shades with gilt Arabic numerals and hands, this line is powered by the ETA 7001 calibre. Taking around 4 to 6 months to make, although they offer a meagre 30 metres of water resistance, we aren’t too upset by this as this is an out and out dress watch.

Garrick

PRICE RANGE - £19,500

Audemars Piguet linked up with Marvel to release the Royal Oak inspired Spider-Man model. Rolex have nicknames too that have been unofficially sanctioned like Root Beer and Smurf to name but a few, relating to their colour inspirations. So, Fears have found it only fair to work with local watchmakers, Garrick.

Source - Fears

Requiring 3 years of intensive design process, development and testing, they are all entirely handmade to perfection. With a 42mm case diameter, they are made in Garricks Norfolk based headquarters out of 904L steel, closely related to Rolex’s very own material.

It comes in Old English White shades which allows the black Arabic numerals and lume filled hands to stand out. Garrick are reflected in the movement as they use their UT-G04 calibre, offering an 18,000VpH and a 45 hour power reserve.

Marloe Watch Company

Brief History Of Marloe Watch Company

The story starts with Oliver Goffe replacing a movement from his luxury ticker. It had died and after noticing the movement inside was hollow and cheap, Oliver felt compelled to start moving forwards with a company of his own.

Seeking the help of Gordon Fraser in 2015, the pair managed to create a well built and respectable timepiece that would be a strong competitor, but valued at a reasonable figure. Upon releasing the first Marloe pieces, the pair founded the Marloe Watch Company.

Stealing the name from Oliver’s hometown of Marlow near the River Thames, they have become popularised and a strong contender as another hot contender as a best British watch brand.

Top Collections

TAY

PRICE RANGE - £399

TAY is nicknamed the “Small Tank” due to its immense presence on the wrist, yet in such a small case design.

Source - Marloe

Inspired by Victoria Drummond MBE, who’s efforts as a marine engineer proved that her sex didn’t define her abilities in a very masculine work environment, this eventually earned her the distinct award of the first woman enrolled in the The Institute of Marine Engineers.

TAY comes from the place where Victoria Drummond operated, and also where Marloe Watch Company was stationed. Given steel inverse tapered sides, wide apertures and stout lugs, the 35mm pieces reach 100 metres of water resistance and are powered by the Miyota 9039.

This specific movement beats away with a 28,800VpH and 40 hour power reserve.

Available in yellow, cream or black shades, these models are the small powerhouses you need to up your wrist game when flaunting one of the best British watch brands to a bunch of judgemental horophiles.

Coniston Auto

PRICE RANGE - £299 - £399

We’re going to mention a gentleman that has popped up in a few other articles. He needs no introduction, but here is Rolex’s golden boy, Sir Malcom Campbell. He is noted for wearing an Oyster Perpetual while breaking speed records during the 1930s.

Source - Marloe

However, Marloe Watch Company may have snatched him from Genevan's hands! Inspired by the lake where Sir Malcom Campbell broke his water-speed records, the Coniston Auto was partnered with The Campbell Family Heritage Trust, with royalties made by them being donated to the trust.

All of them are in some way connected with great achievements involving speed. This includes timepieces like the CONISTON AUTO - CN7, having a blue and white colour scheme to match The Proteus Bluebird CN7 that Donald Campbell drove across the bed of Lake Eyre to break a water speed record in 1964.

Built into circular steel cases, they are given exhibition casebacks and an automatic movement powering the classic three handed dial. Given ridged case sides, they feature baton style hour markers and premium leather straps for optimal comfort.

They are all powered by the Miyota 8N24 automatic mechanical movement which has a 21,600VpH and a 40 hour power reserve.

Astro

PRICE RANGE - £299 - £399

Move over Steve McQueen for just a second.

The Astro line is the equivalent of the daring Monaco from TAG Heuer. While their design may be Monaco inspired, the history flies sky-high into the Omega Speedmaster realms!

Source - Marloe

Inspired by the entire portfolio of expeditions from earth to space, the Astro models are influenced by old-school television sets that allowed us to witness various space missions, including the moon landing of 1969, the rise of Sputnik and Valentina Tereshkova, the first woman sent into space.

Given a squared case design alongside a multilayer face with applied indices, the Astro is made out of steel and features chamfered hands alongside running seconds hands.

Powered by the Miyota 9039 calibre that offers a 28,800VpH alongside a 40 hour power reserve, the models have a fairly average power reserve, but a very powerful frequency.

Mr Jones Watches

Brief History Of Mr Jones Watches

Founder, Crispin Jones’ history originally started as a photoshop and graphic designer of sculptures, as per his degree in fine art at Kingston University.

Due to his creative background, he ended up creating seven watches sent in for an exhibition in 2005. Designed to question what horology should be used for, Crispin sought to retain these themes by combating the affluence associated with luxury watches while introducing a whole lot of fun!

After contacting multiple factories and creating 5 different designs (each capped at 100 pieces), they were designed to question the purpose of technology, including how we rely on them to make informed decisions.

Crisipin eventually created Mr Jones Watches in 2007, becoming sole designer and eventually expanding to include his friends who similarly worked as designers. They are noted for being a top collaboration name, opting to work with artists and designers to release models with a general cap of 100 novelties.

Originally built in China and Hong Kong, Crispin moved his manufacturing to London in 2011 to have more control over the designs. Furthermore, they can be produced and released a lot faster as they can closely oversee production.

From international shores to these fair isles, Mr Jones Watches are rising stars in the horological world.

Top Collections

Collaboration

PRICE RANGE - £225 - £695

The Collaboration line features a range of watches inspired by an even longer list of designers!

Source - Mr Jones

They all feature avant-garde faces that either boast cultural references, or a wacky design that instantly grabs your attention.

Very much catwalk catnip, these wouldn’t look out of line at London Fashion Week. The majority of them are crafted out of 316L steel and have a case diameter of around 37mm to 40mm.

Powered by the ST1721 automatic movement, the Collaboration line has a 50 metre water resistance which is suitable for showers but nothing too strenuous.

One model we like is The Ricochet. Created by designer, Ryan Claytor it is a playful take on the pinball arcade with the selling point showcasing three robots that are made out of metallic foil palladium, 20 carat citrine gold and 22 carat rose gold. Truly cosmic.

Interestingly, the time is read via the scoreboard which is an awesome aesthetic and something that would be eye catching for any enthusiast!

London Made

PRICE RANGE - £225 - £695

The London Made collection is an ode to Mr Jones Watches which moved from China and Hong Kong to London.

Source - Mr Jones

Featuring a range of steel watches and movements ranging from automatic to quartz, it still retains the unorthodox styling that Mr Jones Watches are famed for.

One model we like is The Accurate. In typical Mr Jones Watches fashion, the Londin Made is given a bit of dark humour as this model is considered the most accurate timepiece in the world. But where oh where are the hour and minute markers?

This is because the metal hands feature the words “remember you will die”. Hard hitting accuracy? Short of time? Maybe, but we love the minimalist design and the modern feel.

AnOrdain

Brief History Of AnOrdain

For this next best British watch brand, we fly over to Scotland to see the very understated yet stylish models from the Highlands.

Founded in 2015 in Glasgow by Ross Davis, he had a goal to create unique timepieces that offer other high-end British watch brands an ideal alternative to Swiss horology. Davis is a key user of traditional craftsmanship, meaning they have that vintage styling that has been popularised globally.

As an independent name, AnOrdain completely handcraft their watches, using specially chosen components in order to confirm their quality and ensure the longevity of them.

Taking inspiration from the Scottish landscape, expect to see influences of mountains and lakes throughout the collections, all within the traditional enamelling technique that they employ on the dials.

Top Collections

Model 1

PRICE RANGE - £1,450 - £2,595

The Model 1 line is the starting point for AnOrdain.

Source - AnOrdain

Crafted with the Glasgow-made enamel dial that's handcrafted and made in-house, it is the centrepiece of the collection. From start to finish, including cutting out copper plates to hand printing the numerals, they require expert craftsmen and at least 12 hours just to make the faces.

Averaging around 35mm case diameter in steel for the small models to 41mm diameter for large models, these polished editions have a water resistance of around 50 metres and feature in-house built hour, minute and seconds hands that are thermally treated by hand.

These pieces come in a range of colours like Oxblood, salmon, off-white and Parisian blue while there is also the capability of owning a GMT variation with a German made purple lacquer face.

Model 2

PRICE RANGE - £1,825 - £1,995

The Model 2 line from AnOrdain is their everyday model that moves away from the dressy Model 1 and adds flair with an element of durability.

Source - AnOrdain

Available in 4 colours and 2 sizes, this is the smallest collection, but it's certainly hardy! You can source one in 36mm to 39.5mm of brushed steel. Capable of reaching 50 metres of water resistance, they have thermally treated hands with Super-Luminova tips for optimal legibility.

Fitted with the same vitreous enamel dials, they run from yellow, black, white and green shades with an unorthodox combination of baton hour markers and numerals like 12, 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 being placed in Arabic markers. How bizarre!

Fitted onto leather straps, these are fantastic watches from the best British watch brands to flaunt on the wrist, traversing the office to the swanky cocktail bar.

Model 3

PRICE RANGE - £3,500

Model 3 is the most exclusive line from AnOrdain. Featuring 2 colours and one size, these dress watches closely resemble the minimalist stylings of the Grand Seiko SBGW299 line.

Source - AnOrdain

Crafted out of steel at 39mm, they are made out of polished 316L steel. Fitted with transparent vitreous enamel dials in textured silver or aqua blue, the uninspiring 50 metre water resistant piece has slim baton hour markers and blackened hands. No showing this off in the back of a boat!

The dials are all initially carved out of a block of ash and then the texture is transformed into enamel via highly technical machines and traditional enamel crafting. The end product of a collaboration with Method Studio, Scottish artisan cabinet and trunk makers, they have a distinct look which cannot be replicated.

Much like Chrono Hunter’s one of a kind platform where we both buy and sell your watches with consummate ease. As a solely online platform, we allow you to liaise directly with luxury retailers, escaping the risks of uncertified public offers and raw deals.

Farer

Brief History Of Farer

Us Brits love our independence.

Perhaps more than sipping a Singapore Sling or taking that Porsche out for a spin. Farer opt to keep their maverick, lone wolf status possible, all while releasing high quality watches.

Released in 2015, Farer is one of a small share of independent British watch brands that prides itself on detail and excellent build quality.

Started by three horological lovers, Ben Lewin, Jono Holt and Paul Sweetenham, they are designs following the classic builds in horological history, but with more modern features such as inspiration from exotic locations and a range of limited edition pieces.

So far, Farer has garnered a great community of horological lovers, alongside a reputation for creating some of the best men’s watches.

Top Collections

Tonneau Automatic

PRICE RANGE - £1,085

Tonneau case shapes are very rare in the cut-and-paste horological marketplace. Just ask Richard Mille. Yet Farer seeks to venture into the unknown by dedicating a line solely to the Tonneau case.

Source - Farer

Featuring a range of combinations like baton and Arabic numerals, complete Arabic numerals and Roman numerals, they range from blues to greens. Crafted out of steel, they are powered by the Sellita SW300 which offers a 56 hour power reserve and an automatic winding movement.

Averaging around 35mm diameter of 316L steel, they feature polished handstand curved sapphire crystals for optimal legibility and durability. Given a brushed aesthetic with polished chamfers, they are fantastic dress pieces and would look great paired with charcoal suits or navy blue polo shirts.

Chrono-Contempo Manual

PRICE RANGE - £1,675

Chronographs just got a lot more exciting under the Chrono-Contempo line! As a completely modernised perspective of the standard chronograph, they feature bold colours inspired by two of London’s most famed streets.

Source - Farer

One example is the Chalcot edition. This steel 38.5mm chronograph is given a textured mint shade, a functional bi-directional twelve hour bezel and three chronograph functions with two mint green sub counters and one large white one at 3 o’clock.

Another is the Portobello which is a 38.5mm steel chronograph that features an orange ceramic bezel, a blue textured grid finish and a bi-directional twelve hour bezel that works in conjunction with the triple black chronograph sub counters.

They are all powered by the Sellita SW510M b which offers a 28,800Vph and has an impressive 63 hour power reserve.

Aqua Compressor Automatic

PRICE RANGE - £1,075

The Aqua Compressor Automatic is one of the ultimate lines from one of the best British watch brands. That is, for dive enthusiasts. The line brings together Farer's innovative case design which includes twin crowns, screw down back, compressed O-ring gasket and an internal rotating bezel for optimal water resistance.

Source - Farer

Capable of reaching 300 metres of water resistance, they continue with the phenomenal legacy of the compressor back in the 1950s. By using water pressure to compress gaskets and enhance water resistance, Farer utilises titanium with rubber straps alongside exotic powder blue, fiery red and deep sea blue accents.

Within all Aqua Compressor Automatic models, expect a lot from the Sellita SW200-1 movement. This includes a 41 hour power reserve and a bespoke Farer rotor with an engraved submersible wave design. When at sea, as they say!

Garrick

Brief History Of Garrick

Founded in 2013, Garrick was the brainchild of both David Brailsford and Simon Michlmayr.

The company operates out of Norfolk, creating, developing and finally releasing their hotly anticipated numbers. With such a tight knit group, they only release around 50 per year, making them an exclusive and sought after British watch brand.

Now, the Norfolk facility is high spec, resulting in only top quality watches being produced and released. This includes the workshop featuring positive air pressure, meaning only filtered air can enter the production areas and reduce the risk of dust contamination.

Now releasing their own movements like the Calibre UT-G01, 02, 03 and 04, the movements feature patent materials like Sircument to ensure non magnetism and weighted screws to counteract air turbulence and enhance precision.

Top Collections

S3 Timepiece

PRICE RANGE - £32,995

The S3 MK2 is bolstered with the latest calibre, the UT-G04. Offering a daily variance of just 5 seconds per day and a power reserve of 45 hours, they come in either 904L steel or gold.

Source - Garrick

These circular pieces feature handmade hour and minute hands alongside a skeletonised face which is fitted with gold or rhodium plated bridges. Around 11 mm in depth and with an exhibition caseback, they are the technical jewel to many collections.

Strapped onto a handmade leather strap, they are fantastic dress items, but with a soupcon of avant-garde modernity.

Regulator MK II

PRICE RANGE - £13,194

The Regulator MK II measures 42mm and is crafted out of 904L steel. With a surprisingly thin depth of 10mm it is even slimmer than the sumptuous IWC Portugieser Chronograph Year of the Dragon at 13mm and the Zenith Chronomaster Pink Sport which is 13.6mm thick.

They feature the powerful G02 calibre. You have the option of choosing between an engine turned face to a frosted shade in red, black, blue and rhodium.

Source - Garrick

Incorporating a 45 hour power reserve and a +5 variance, the movement is again visible through an exhibition back which similarly has a gold or silver frosted finish. Equipped with handmade leather straps this would look very sharp under a black suit or with a simple grey polo shirt.

S2 Timepiece

PRICE RANGE - £22,800

The S2 could easily be considered Garricks most minimal edition to date.

Source - Garrick

Bearing a chapter ring on the periphery with Roman numerals, this circles the engine turned face with a circular grained aesthetic. Given thermally blued hour and minute hands, they are all made in house and offer exceptional legibility. It takes 5 days alone to make!

Fitted with the Calibre UT-GO6, gaze at this powerhouse through the exhibition back. Running at 18,000VpH and offering a power reserve of 45 hours, they are locked in with a handmade strap in alligator, calf, buffalo and ostrich leather. Now that’s the height of plushness.

Offering a daily variance of +3 seconds, they are carefully curated and designed to be both legible and luxurious, especially since you can opt for either a red, blue black or rhodium face. Oh yes, you can decide on your choice of movement colour such as pink gold, black gold or rhodium for good measure!

Vertex

Brief History Of Vertex

Vertex has a long and expansive history running back to their inception in 1912. Created by Claude Lyons who borrowed £1,000 from his father to set up Vertex Company, from the start they prided themselves on using Swiss movements in high quality in-house cases.

Eventually commissioned to work for Britain during WW1, they even stretched to WWII to become one of the only British watch brands to provide watches to UK soldiers during the war. However, it's not all doom and gloom.

If you want to find out one of the best war inspired watches of all time take a minute to look at the below;

What is So Unique About the Cartier Tank?

In 1960, they released a range of diving and sports lines that are filled with Luminova. However the company fell flat for a number of years until it was revived in 2015 by great-grandson Don Cochrane.

Releasing collections like the M100 which developed from the WWII inspired Cal 59 in 2016, Vertex would win Silver for Best Art Direction and bronze for Best Writing at the Creative Circle Awards due to their full-page adverts.

Nowadays, Vertex remains a hot presence amongst British watch brands, including keeping their legendary Vertex clock high and proud at Hatton Garden, London.

Top Collections

M100

PRICE RANGE - £2,083.33

The M100 attributes itself back to the watches Vertex specifically made for the UK military.

Source - Vertex

Sized at 40mm, they have a rather thick 12.2mm depth and a sizable lug-to-lug of 48.5mm. They offer 100 metres of water resistance as confirmed by the screw down crown and brushed 316L steel case.

The front mimics the original Vertex WWW model, featuring a minute track and clearly defined hour markers. However, modernity comes in the form of using X1 Super-Luminova which allows maximum legibility and its signature Vertex shine.

Powered by the SELLITA SW216-1 which offers a 28,800VpH, as provided by a Nivaflex hairspring, there is nothing better than a Swiss movement in some UK watchmakers! All the faces are blacked out to maximise legibility and are fitted onto leather or super comfortable NATO straps.

M60 AquaLion

PRICE RANGE - £2,375 - £2,450

The “Aqua” part of the title may give away the purpose of this line…

Source - Vertex

Inspired by their original dive models from the 50s and 60s, they competently match the ISO 6425 regulations, making this a Swiss Chronometer Certified timepiece and enjoy a phenomenal water resistance of 600 metres.

Crafted out of steel or black DLC, they have a screw down crown and back to reach this water resistance.

The faces are matte black with moulded X1 Super-Luminova hour markers and hands for maximum legibility. This certified dive piece from Vertex is sized at 40mm and is protected with a double domed sapphire crystal.

Powered by the Sellita SW300-1, the movement offers a 56 hour power reserve alongside a 4 Hz frequency. COSC certified? That’s right! They are available on either steel straps, Zulu or rubber dive straps.

MP45

PRICE RANGE - £2,900

The Vertex MP45 is a brilliant ode to the Mono-Pusher timing edition that was originally commissioned in 1945.

Source - Vertex

The mono-pusher function essentially allows for just one button to start, stop and reset the chronograph functions. Allowing the soldier to keep his eyes up, the function was an incredible innovation that Vertex have modernised today.

Sized at 40mm of brushed steel, they are capable of reaching 100 metres of water resistance. The black shades are given aged X1 Super-Luminova Arabic numerals and hands which pertains to the vintage heritage of the pieces.

Running via the Sellita SW510M, it has a 63 hour power reserve and a 28,800VpH. They are strapped onto a brown leather strap which looks slightly worn to promote the utilitarian nature of the piece.

If you want to look sharp in the office or go to a WW2 reenactment, this is the line for you! Why not flex this with a brown camel overcoat or a simple white suit shirt and black chinos?

Roger Smith

Brief History Of Roger Smith

While the headline is Roger Smith, the man behind the face actually owes a lot of his success to a gentleman named George Daniels.

Dr. George Daniels CBE has been celebrated as the greatest horologist in the last 250 years. He took young Roger Smith under his wing after Smith brought him a working pocket piece that he built himself.

While George Daniels initially rejected the first model as it looked “handmade” and not “created”, five years later Smith would return with a pocket timepiece that harnessed all 34 principles of Daniels Method.

This would be the dawn of the legendary Daniels Millenium series. In 2001, Roger Smith decided to open his own workshop after working with George Daniels. Releasing the Series 1 and eventually the Series 2, the second series, all 225 parts, were built entirely in Roger Smith's workshop.

Now, Roger Smith has become perhaps the most sought after British watch brands in modern times, even prompting a 2018 Series 1 model to sell at auction for a cool £551,000 in 2021. Oh yes gents, this guy is really good…

Top Collections

Series 5 Open Dial

PRICE RANGE - N/A

The Series 5 is Roger Smith’s ode to the watchmaker's eye. He reveals what only the designers and creators see as opposed to the wearer. May we introduce the Series 5 Open Dial.

Source - Roger W Smith

Started in 2008 and completed in 2010, they allow the user to witness the movement, including all its bevelling and polishing, the plates and every conceivable part that would otherwise be dismissed.

Available in platinum, 18K yellow gold and red or white gold, the 38mm or 40mm case sizes are set with iconic spear shaped hands and affixed onto a leather strap and buckle to match the case material.

They are all powered by the Daniels Co-Axial escapement, offering an 18,000VpH, a free sprung Quadrajust balance and a gorgeous raised barrel bridge and balance cock that can be engraved with your choice of English floral designs.

Simply stunning, you cannot say more about the open worked beauty of the Series 5 Open Dial.

Daniels’ Anniversary

PRICE RANGE - N/A

You’ve heard about the great legacy that George Daniels offered young Roger Smith. As a final tribute, they both eventually released the Daniels’ Anniversary, launched in 2008.

Source - Bonhams

Capped to 35 watches, this isn’t a random number! This actually relates to the 35th anniversary of George Daniels inventing the Co-axial escapement. The range of functions is worth mentioning here which include the following;

Power reserve indicator
Up Down Indicator
Calendar mechanism
Seconds sub counter which closely mimics the iconic tourbillon pocket watches Mr Daniels made in 1994.

Available in 18K yellow gold, they feature a hand engine turned face with 18K yellow gold chapters and Daniels famed hands, similarly crafted out of the same precious material.

Locked in with a leather strap, they are beautifully presented, allowing the movement to be a silent partner in this craftsman’s brilliance!

Fitted with Daniels co-axial escapement movement, they offer an 18,000VpH and striking finish made up of flame coloured screws and a combo of frosted and gilded plates.

The free sprung balance is another brilliant feature as it enhances the precision of them by improving its accuracy against knocks, scrapes, bumps or any abrasions.

Take a big breather for a moment and count your pennies. Remember, this beauty is capped at 35 pieces to celebrate the 35th anniversary.

Pinion Watches

Brief History Of Pinion Watches

Established in 2013, Pinion is a fairly new brand in the horological sphere, under the eyes of professional designer Piers Berry.

With a history in working with web and digital media agencies in London, Berry was brought up during the 1970s with the craze of the digital revolution. During the 2000s, Piers moved to create a digital agency in Henley-on-Thames and first found his passions lying in mechanical movements

Doing photography work for a number of horological brands, he soon developed a rich portfolio and insider knowledge of the top luxury brands and what made them exactly tick. In 2013, he founded Pinion and released his first collection, Axis.

This grew to the Pure and the R-1969 released in 2014 and 2015 respectively. They and the collections have continued to grow to date, including the range of shades and cementing them as one of the best British watch brands to take notice of.

Top Collections

Neutron

PRICE RANGE - £1,000

The Neutron is the successor to the stunning Pinion Atom that was originally around from 2017.

Source - Pinion

Measuring 38mm for all watches, this very modern fit is perfect for sliding under shirt cuffs. Crafted out of brushed steel, they offer 100 metres of water resistance as provided by the solid back and crown with double o-ring protection.

Combining Arabic numerals and baton hour markers, they are crafted out of brass and finished with a healthy dose of Super-Luminova. All the faces are electroplated and finished with a circular brushed aesthetic. And how could we forget the inner guilloche decoration?

The Swiss made ETA 2824-2 calibre offers around 28,800VpH alongside a 38 hour power reserve. Averaging around +/-5 seconds per day, they perform exceptionally well in terms of precision and look the part with their black, navy or brown leather straps.

Available in many colours like red, navy blue, pink and black, us horophiles are absolutely spoilt for choice!

Elapse

PRICE RANGE - £1,708.33

Elapse represents Pinion’s very first automatic chronograph that features a Valjoux 7750 beating within.

Source - Pinion

Sized at 42mm, they offer a range of functions, including the ability to measure elapsed time in seconds, minutes and hours, all of which are controlled by two polished steel pushers.

Sized at 42mm, the 100 metre water resistant watches are crafted out of brushed steel. The plated faces utilise contrasting vertical brushed finishes allow the three sub counters at 12, 6 and 9 o’clock to clearly stand out alongside the Arabic and dot hour markers.

Featuring blued hands against black, white or salmon shades, the Valjoux 7750 movement offers a 28,800VpH alongside a 48 hour power reserve.

This bears resemblance to a sexy salmon dial known as the Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar 5320G which has a white gold circular casing, perpetual calendar functionality and even a moonphase indication!

Locked in via a leather strap, they are very sporty but still smart enough to wear with a navy suit when looking to clinch that big client.

TT

PRICE RANGE - £1,958.33

Pinion seemingly like a collection for each complication. For the TT line, this is no exception!

Source - Pinion

Standing for “Two Time-Zones”, the 42mm watches are crafted out of brushed titanium and boost GMT functionality. Available with a maroon or an anthracite shade, the painted dials feature applied numerals with Swiss Super-Luminova coating.

Given 100 metres of water resistance, they skip to a merry tune of high quality horology through a Swiss made ETA 2893-2 calibre, totalling a 28,800VpH frequency and a 42 hour power reserve.

The contrasting orange GMT hand clearly stands out against the other solver hands and hour markers. Take note of the flange to see the 24 hour scale used for determining AM and PM times for local and away hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Brand Watch Is Best In the UK?

If you have ever asked yourself which are the best UK watchmakers, it’s all a matter of your own opinion!

Some people would argue that Bremont is one of the top British watchmakers. Brimming with history, it has manufactured watches for a range of customers, including F1 stars Alex Albon and Logan Sargeant.

Bremont have risen to the top with a brilliant billing taking home the prize of WatchPro’s Company Of The Year in 2019, the same award in 2012 and HSBC Global Connections winner in 2013.

They don’t just celebrate alone either. They are celebrating the RNLI’s 200th anniversary in 2024 by releasing 3 limited edition pieces. Well, aren't they nice!

Others could say that Studio Underd0g are the young upstarts that are gaining global recognition from huge luxury platforms and being nominated for the legendary GPHG awards.

What about the old legends Roger Smith? Selling watches for millions of pounds at auction and combining the creative minds of possibly the two best watchmakers in the last 250 years, you would not be persecuted if you chose them.

It’s really a tough call…

Who Is The Most Expensive British Watchmaker?

Easily one of the most expensive British watchmakers is Roger Smith. Combining the great knowledge of Roger Smith and prowess of legendary creator George Daniels, the timepiece has been known to yield incredible figures.

For example in 2023 The Pocket Watch No.2 was a piece made over 5 years in the 1990s. Sized at 66.5mm of yellow gold, they feature a perpetual calendar, tourbillon and a spring detent escapement. Completely handmade, it sold at a Philipps auction for just under $5 million dollars…or around 4 million of your British pounds.

What Are The Oldest British Watch Companies?

In short, one of the oldest British watchmakers is Fears. Established in 1846, the company is now under the possession of the sixth generation, starting with Edwin Fear and now celebrating 175 years under the helm of Nicholas Bowman-Scargill.

What Watches Do The British Royals Wear?

Members of the Royal family wear a range of lines, none of which are from British watch brands. Quelle Dommage.

King Charles III

Rose gold Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso
Two Tone Steel and Yellow Gold Santos De Cartier
Yellow Gold Patek Philipe Calatrava Date

Camilla, Queen Consort

Yellow Gold Cartier Tank Francaise

Prince William

Omega Seamaster 300 metres

Prince Harry

Rolex Explorer II 216570

Kate Middleton

Cartier Ballon Bleu W6920071

Meghan Markle

Cartier Tank Francaise

Conclusion

That’s all, Timelords! If you feel inspired and motivated by this collection of some of the best British watch brands out there, show your support in full.

The fact that there are excellent UK options out there to bolster your Swiss portfolio, hopefully means where you should go to buy a watch with high end features, complications and benefit from the best possible price… Need we mention Chrono Hunter?

Ranging from the fabulous Pinion Watches with their GMT inspired TT line, to the hugely popular Roger Smith brand, we’ve donned our horological caps and sourced 13 of the best British watchmakers with extensive histories, phenomenal back stories and technical ingenuity.

Luckily, these British watchmakers don’t skimp on the good stuff. Using top materials and Swiss imported movements, they can easily be passed down the generations. Whether you wish to buy one as a well done for that big bonus, or as a gift for a wedding day or special occasion, these will not let you down.

British watch brands are now firmly back on the map. While we appreciate the work of Swiss legends like Vacheron Constantin and Patek Philippe, sometimes you need to step back and appreciate something closer to home.

Want to own a fresh timepiece but don’t know where to go? Thinking of taking the plunge with a hot timepiece and confused about how to source it? Well, Chrono Hunter is the perfect site for you!

Our fantastic level of service combined with an extensive network of the finest luxury retailers means we can get you the deal of a lifetime.

With so many offers to choose from via our exclusive network of retailers, simply choose the one that suits and conclude the purchase or sale directly with the authorised dealer.

We can confirm that our steadily rising list of 5 star reviews on Trustpilot ensures you are dealing with only the best in our field and ensures many of our loyal customers have already received the best deals possible!

Take time to liaise with our experienced team here and expect peerless service, quick turnaround and first degree security with some of the greatest offers you’ve ever seen that’s true to market value!

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