Gronfeld.  Sarapaneva.  Struthers London.  Do these names spring to mind when you think of luxury watch brands?  Perhaps not.  However, these are just a selection of independent watch companies who command the respect of watch enthusiasts with their exquisite bespoke customer service and the impeccable quality of their watches.

A report by the BBC highlights how a watch by one of these small companies could cost as much as £120,000.  It may be hard to understand how this can be the case, as these businesses are little known.  However, when you are aware of the work that goes into each timepiece, the high price tag makes sense.

Gronfeld, a company established by two brothers, Bart and Tim, in 2008 is a company highly regarded by watch aficionados.  The focus is on the quality of the pieces rather than the quantity they can produce.  As such, their team of 12 watchmakers create no more than 30 timepieces a year.  By making the exact amount number of watches required for their client base, costs are kept down.  This means that where possible, they will hand deliver the watch to the intended recipient.  A completely unique and bespoke service not available from major luxury watch brands such as Rolex or Patek Philippe. 

The same principle is applied by Stepan Sarpaneva.  His company, Sarpaneva, produces watches made to order.  The reduced number of watches made means he dedicates his time to one watch at a time and thus maintain the impeccable quality is known for.

Struthers London are another small, independent watch company.  Founded by husband and wife Rebecca and Craig Struthers, their wealth of knowledge in Antiquarian horology and designing complex mechanisms means that the vast majority of the work on their watches is done in house.  Their bespoke service means that they are able to design and make a completely unique timepiece based on their client’s specifications. 

With these industry leading experts willing to cater to your exact needs, it is clear why more people are choosing to invest a little more in their timepieces in order to reap the benefits of this exclusive service.  The brands might not be instantly recognised, however, amongst people in the know and their finger on the pulse of watch innovation appreciate the quality and the meticulous work that goes into each watch.  By tailoring a bespoke process, the client is not only provided with a second to non-product, but are involved with the process from start to end.