WatchDNA | Where Time Connects Us All

WatchDNA

Welcome to the WatchDNA podcast, where time connects us all. This podcast takes you beyond the dial to explore the people, stories, and innovations shaping the world of horology. Join us as we sit down with watchmakers, brand founders, collectors, retailers, industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and passionate enthusiasts from around the globe. From the latest watch releases and industry trends to personal journeys, business insights, and the craftsmanship behind some of the world’s most fascinating timepieces, every episode offers a unique perspective on the watch community. Whether you’re a seasoned collector, a newcomer to the hobby, or simply curious about the stories behind the brands and people that make this industry so special, the WatchDNA Podcast is your destination for education, inspiration, and connection. Subscribe and join us as we discover the stories behind the watches—and the people who wear them. WatchDNA — Where Time Connects Us All.

  1. The Military’s Best Kept Secret? MicroMilspec’s Henrik Rye on Custom Watches & Erling Haaland

    10h ago ·  Video

    The Military’s Best Kept Secret? MicroMilspec’s Henrik Rye on Custom Watches & Erling Haaland

    The Military’s Best Kept Secret?  MicroMilspec’s Henrik Rye on Custom Watches & Erling Haaland Discover the brand | Read the article | Explore the collection 👉 WatchDNA.com/Micromilspec For more brands, access all links in one place: 👉 Link in bio → WatchDNA.com/Discover How did a brand-new watch company sell 400 watches in just two weeks to a military unit based only on a drawing? We sit down with Henrik Rye, the CEO and Co-Founder of MicroMilspec, to uncover the incredible origin story of this modern professional watch brand. From being unemployed and sitting in a watchmaker's store to designing custom timepieces for performance athletes like Erling Haaland and elite corporate directors, Henrik shares the vision behind their utility-first aesthetic. In this video, you’ll discover: ✔️The secret behind their Grade 5 Titanium construction and 200m water resistance. ✔️ The mystery of the stolen prototype and why collectors are desperate to get their hands on one. ✔️ Why the US market has become their biggest fan base. ✔️ A close look at their tactical data displays and 24-city time zone bezels. MicroMilspec is quickly becoming the reference point for modern professional watches. Watch until the end to see which prototype is turning heads!  Timestamps: 00:00 – The Mystery of the Stolen Prototype  00:26 – The Vision: Modern Professional Utility Watches  00:57 – How We Sold 400 Watches to the Military in 2 Weeks  01:35 – From Unemployed to Global Watch Brand  01:45 – Top Markets: Why the US is 40% of Business  02:05 – Custom Watches for Erling Haaland & Athletes  02:54 – Prototype Showcase: Grade 5 Titanium & Specs  03:33 – Tactical Features: 24 Time Zones & City Bezels  03:47 – Giveaway Contest & Viewer Poll  #MicroMilspec #HenrikRye #MilitaryWatch #LuxuryWatches #WatchCollecting #ErlingHaaland #Horology #ProfessionalWatches #TitaniumWatch #ToolWatch #WatchReview #CustomWatches #WatchDNA #EDC #TacticalGear

    4 min
  2. The Secret Watch Show Next to Watches & Wonders You Need to Know (Time To Watches)

    May 26 ·  Video

    The Secret Watch Show Next to Watches & Wonders You Need to Know (Time To Watches)

    The Secret Watch Show Next to Watches & Wonders You Need to Know (Time To Watches) Explore the event at: WatchDNA.com/TimeToWatches Website: WatchDNA.com IG: ‪@watchdna‬  TikTok: WatchDNA Email: info@WatchDNA.com What happens to independent watch microbrands when massive events like Baselworld cancel and the industry shifts entirely to Geneva? In this exclusive interview, WatchDNA host Thomas sits down with Christian Wipfli, the Founder and Director of Time To Watches. Christian explains how he launched this human-centric, highly collaborative watch exhibition to give smaller, independent watchmakers a premium, accessible platform in Geneva located just one minute away from Palexpo (home of Watches & Wonders) at the stunning Villa Sarasin. We discuss the rapid growth of the exhibition, the incredible human connections made within the watch community, and a massive new announcement: Time To Watches is expanding internationally with a new edition in Las Vegas in partnership with the prestigious Couture show! Christian breaks down the strategic B2B vs. B2C opportunities this opens up for watch brands aiming to break into the US luxury market. Finally, we get an exclusive look at the brand-new Alexander Award—the first-ever horology award dedicated entirely to the art of watch storytelling, marketing campaigns, photography, and social media communication. Explore the unique DNA of hundreds of independent watch brands in our directory at WatchDNA.com Don't forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more insider watch event coverage, independent brand spotlights, and luxury horology news Video Timestamps 0:00 - Introduction & The History of Time To Watches 1:02 - Why Independent Brands Needed an Alternative to Baselworld 1:30 - Finding the Perfect Location: From HEAD University to Villa Sarasin 2:22 - The Human Connections of Independent Watch Shows 3:13 - Huge Announcement: Time To Watches Launching in Las Vegas! 3:37 - Strategic Partnership with Couture for the US Watch Market 4:14 - The Alexander Award: Honouring the Best in Watch Storytelling 5:23 - Award Ceremony Details & Wrap Up #TimeToWatches #WatchDNA #IndependentWatches #WatchesAndWonders #Microbrands #WatchCollector #GenevaWatchWeek #Horology #WatchShow #LuxuryWatches #WatchMarketing #AlexanderAward

    6 min
  3. Watches & Wonders at Geneva | Vlog Ft. La Maison Monaco

    May 22 ·  Video

    Watches & Wonders at Geneva | Vlog Ft. La Maison Monaco

    Inside Watches & Wonders: Testing the Craziest New Luxury Releases! (TAG Heuer, Hublot & Zenith) Explore the collection at: WatchDNA.com/MaisonMonaco Website: WatchDNA.com IG: ‪@watchdna‬  TikTok: WatchDNA Email: info@WatchDNA.com Live from the showroom floor in Geneva. Join WatchDNA host Thomas and Leon from La Maison Monaco as they take you inside day one and two of Watches & Wonders to experience the most anticipated luxury watch releases of the year. First, we head over to TAG Heuer to look at their latest technical innovations. We dive into the groundbreaking TAG Heuer Monaco Evergraph, a skeletonised marvel that re-engineers the iconic square chronograph to reduce internal movement friction from four points down to just one—massively extending service intervals. We also get a look at the history of the Monaco, vintage Heuer dials, and discuss the upcoming Formula 1 Canadian Grand Prix activation happening at the Royalmount boutique in Montreal! Next, we explore the new direction of Hublot under CEO Julien Tornare. We examine the stunning Big Bang Reloaded collection in blue ceramic, green ceramic, and titanium, spotlighting the visible column-wheel at 6:00. Plus, we get a hands-on look at the ultra-exclusive, 200-piece limited editions designed for superstar athletes Kylian Mbappé and Usain Bolt (featuring a frosted carbon bezel and rose gold casing). Finally, we stop by Zenith to check out the Chronomaster Sport Skeleton, featuring an integrated micro-adjustment clasp system, alongside the breathtaking Zenith Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar (GFJ), crafted with an exotic green bloodstone dial and a yellow-gold case to mark the brand's 161st anniversary. Discover where to find these incredible novelties across Canada (Montreal, Quebec City, Ottawa) at WatchDNA.com/MaisonMonaco Don't forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for exclusive luxury watch reviews, lifestyle vlogs, and front-row coverage of global watch weeks Video Timestamps 0:00 - The Watches & Wonders Experience: Returning to Geneva 0:46 - TAG Heuer Chronograph Innovations & Vintage History 1:52 - Deep Dive: TAG Heuer Monaco Evergraph Frictionless Movement 2:42 - Formula 1 Canadian Grand Prix & Montreal Boutique Activation 3:22 - Hublot's New Vision: True Watchmaking Credibility 4:25 - Hands-On: Hublot Big Bang Reloaded Ceramic Collection 5:10 - Limited Editions: The Kylian Mbappé & Usain Bolt Big Bangs 7:26 - Zenith New Releases: Quality Over Quantity Strategy 8:08 - Zenith Chronomaster Sport Skeleton & Patented Micro-Adjust Clasp 9:21 - Zenith Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar (GFJ) Green Bloodstone 10:20 - Final Takeaway: Why Less Releases Mean Better Watches #WatchesAndWonders #WatchDNA #MaisonMonaco #TAGHeuerMonaco #HublotBigBang #ZenithWatches #LuxuryWatches #WatchCollector #Chronograph #Horology #WatchVlog #SwissWatches #F1Montreal

    13 min
  4. The Renaissance of French Watchmaking: Inside the Pequignet Manufacture

    Apr 29 ·  Video

    The Renaissance of French Watchmaking: Inside the Pequignet Manufacture

    The Renaissance of French Watchmaking: Inside the Pequignet Manufacture Discover the authentic emblem of French haute horlogerie. In this exclusive interview at Watches and Wonders, we sit down with the President and CEO of Pequignet to explore how this historic brand is reviving the art of the French manufacture. From its roots in the 1980s as a design-focused brand for ladies to the 2010 launch of the groundbreaking Calibre Royale, Pequignet stands as a symbol of independence and engineering excellence. We dive into: The history of French watchmaking and Pequignet’s 50-year heritage. The engineering marvel of the Calibre Royale with its integrated complications. The Calibre Initial" and the brand's commitment to sustainable, local production (within a 50-mile radius!). A hands-on look at the new Royale Paris Chronograph and their elegant sport collections in titanium. If you value "French Touch" design paired with in-house mechanical innovation, Pequignet is a brand you need to know. Explore the collection & try them on virtually: WatchDNA.com/Pequignet Read the full story and explore the brand in depth  Discover more about the event -WatchDNA.com/Watchesandwonders Discover the brand | Read the article -WatchDNA.com/Pequignet For more brands, access all links in one place: -Link in bio → WatchDNA.com/Discover Timestamps 00:00 – Pequignet: The symbol of a unique French manufacturer 01:04 – The origin story: From ladies' fashion to technical manufacture 01:57 – Understanding the Calibre Royale: Integrated complications 02:22 – The Calibre Initial: A modern, thin in-house movement 03:20 – Defining luxury vs. high-premium value 04:00 – Lifetime repairability and the 5-year warranty 04:23 – Sustainability: Components sourced within 50 miles 05:13 – Where to find Pequignet: Paris, Besançon, and beyond 05:54 – Hands-on: The new Royale Paris Chronograph 06:57 – Sport Elegance: Titanium and rubber strap innovations 08:25 – Why Pequignet is the perfect "everyday" luxury watch #Pequignet #FrenchWatchmaking #LuxuryWatches #WatchesAndWonders #CalibreRoyale #FrenchManufacture #Horology #WatchCollecting #InHouseMovement #MadeInFrance #MechanicalWatches #WatchDNA #HauteHorlogerie #PequignetParis #WatchReview

    9 min
  5. Inside WOLF 1834: How Five Generations Built a Legacy of Watch Care & Innovation

    Mar 21 ·  Video

    Inside WOLF 1834: How Five Generations Built a Legacy of Watch Care & Innovation

    For nearly 200 years, WOLF 1834 has been helping collectors protect, preserve, and enjoy their most treasured timepieces. In this exclusive WatchDNA interview, we sit down with Simon Wolf, CEO and fifth-generation owner of the family business, to explore the remarkable story behind one of the most respected names in watch accessories and storage solutions. From handcrafted watch boxes to cutting-edge watch winders and collector systems, WOLF has built its reputation by combining tradition, innovation, and timeless design. Simon shares how the company has evolved across five generations while remaining true to its founding mission: protecting the stories that watches carry. 💬 In this episode, we discuss: ⌚ The history of WOLF and its origins dating back to 1834 👨‍👩‍👦 How five generations of the Wolf family have shaped the brand ⚙️ The innovation behind WOLF’s watch winders and collector solutions 🎨 Balancing craftsmanship, design, and technology 🌍 The evolving needs of today’s watch collectors 🚀 What’s next for one of the most iconic family-owned brands in the watch industry Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just beginning your watch journey, this conversation offers a fascinating look at the products and people helping preserve horological passion for generations to come. 🎥 Hosted by WatchDNA | Where Time Connects Us All 🔗 Discover the brand | Read the article  👉 WatchDNA.com/Wolf-1834 🔗 Learn more about the COUTURE Show  👉 WatchDNA.com/Coutureshow 🔗 Discover more brands  👉 WatchDNA.com/Discover 📲 Follow WATCHDNA:  📷 Instagram: @WatchDNA  🐦 Twitter/X: @WatchDNA  👍 Facebook: WatchDNA  🎬 TikTok: @WatchDNA #WOLF1834 #SimonWolf #WatchDNA #WatchCollectors #WatchWinder #LuxuryAccessories #Horology #WatchStorage #FamilyBusiness #COUTUREShow #TimeConnectsUsAll

    10 min
  6. The "Infinity Mirror" Watch? Hidden Gems of Independent Watchmaking with Kristoff

    Jan 27 ·  Video

    The "Infinity Mirror" Watch? Hidden Gems of Independent Watchmaking with Kristoff

    The "Infinity Mirror" Watch? Hidden Gems of Independent Watchmaking with Kristoff Sometimes the best part of a watch trade show isn't at the booths, but in the chance meetings with visionary creators. In this exclusive sit-down, we meet Kristoff, a unique "gallerist" of horology who views the watch case as a frame and the dial as a canvas. Discover a brand built on the philosophy of My humans, through humans, for humans. We take a deep dive into his debut collection, featuring: The Antarctica Interpretation: A stunning study on frozen water and the subtle light effects of ice. The Infinity Dial: A mesmerising design that mimics the infinity mirror" effect, creating waves of expansion on the wrist. The Lunat: A sun-shaped masterpiece inspired by the French Renaissance and the artistic freedom of that era. If you love artisan watches, independent watchmakers, and timepieces that tell a deeply human story beyond just the movement, this is a must-watch. Learn more about the world's most unique watch brands: WatchDNA.com Clear Short Timestamps: 0:00 – Finding Hidden Gems: Meeting Kristoff 0:25 – The Brand Philosophy: Watches as Art Frames 0:48 – The "Antarctica" Dial: Capturing Frozen Water 1:05 – The "Infinity" Watch: A Mirror for Your Wrist 1:20 – Renaissance Inspiration: The Lunat Sun Shape 1:40 – Final Thoughts: A Human Story in Watchmaking #IndependentWatchmaking #ArtisanWatches #LuxuryWatches #WatchCollecting #Horology #UniqueWatches #WatchDesign #KristoffWatches #WatchDNA #Microbrands #WatchArt #LuxuryLifestyle #WatchMaker #InfinityMirror #WatchReview

    2 min
  7. The Best Affordable Watches for 2026? Ice-Watch x Apple "Find My" Tech & Swiss Made Reveals

    Jan 16 ·  Video

    The Best Affordable Watches for 2026? Ice-Watch x Apple "Find My" Tech & Swiss Made Reveals

    The Best Affordable Watches for 2026? Ice-Watch x Apple "Find My" Tech & Swiss Made Reveals Could this be the ultimate peace-of-mind for parents? We sat down with Jean-Pierre Lutgen, the founder and CEO of Ice-Watch, to discuss their game-changing new technology. Known for their colorful silicone DNA and accessible luxury, Ice-Watch is now the first in the industry to integrate Apple Find My technology directly into their timepieces. In this exclusive interview, we explore: The Apple Find My Agreement: How you can now track your children's location directly from your iPhone without a bulky, expensive smartwatch. Ice-Watch DNA: Why they focus on high-quality silicone, vibrant colors, and affordability. The Kids & Sports Collections: A look at the new ICE Smart Junior 3.0 and geolocatable analog models. Watch People: Introducing their brand-new Swiss-Made sister brand for collectors who want that premium "Swiss Made" label with Ice-Watch’s signature style. With over 5,000 locations worldwide, Ice-Watch is redefining what an "accessible" watch can do. Whether you're a fashion lover or a concerned parent, this 2026 collection has something for everyone. 🔗 Discover more:  ⌚️ WatchDNA.com  📲 Follow WATCHDNA:  📷 Instagram: @WatchDNA  🐦 Twitter: @WatchDNA  👍 Facebook: WatchDNA  🎬 TikTok: @WatchDNA Timestamps: 0:00 – Intro: Meet Jean-Pierre Lutgen, CEO of Ice-Watch 0:35 – The Ice-Watch DNA: Color, Silicone, and Quality 0:55 – Game-Changer: Apple Find My Integration for Kids 1:25 – The Origin Story: Mixing Fashion with Tech 1:50 – Exploring the Collection: Smartwatches & Analog Styles 2:20 – Kids Smartwatches: Safety without the Subscription 2:50 – Introducing "Watch People": The New Swiss-Made Brand 3:20 – Global Reach: Where to find Ice-Watch in 2026 3:50 – Final Thoughts & How to Buy #IceWatch #AppleFindMy #SmartwatchForKids #JeanPierreLutgen #WatchCollecting #TechNews #ParentingHacks #SafetyFirst #LuxuryWatches #SwissMade #WatchDNA #FashionWatches #Innovation #AppleTech #IceSmart

    3 min

About

Welcome to the WatchDNA podcast, where time connects us all. This podcast takes you beyond the dial to explore the people, stories, and innovations shaping the world of horology. Join us as we sit down with watchmakers, brand founders, collectors, retailers, industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and passionate enthusiasts from around the globe. From the latest watch releases and industry trends to personal journeys, business insights, and the craftsmanship behind some of the world’s most fascinating timepieces, every episode offers a unique perspective on the watch community. Whether you’re a seasoned collector, a newcomer to the hobby, or simply curious about the stories behind the brands and people that make this industry so special, the WatchDNA Podcast is your destination for education, inspiration, and connection. Subscribe and join us as we discover the stories behind the watches—and the people who wear them. WatchDNA — Where Time Connects Us All.