The Micro Collector

Justin Dorfman
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Entrepreneurship

The Micro Collector is a podcast about the people behind today’s most interesting microbrand watches. Hosted by Justin Dorfman, a lifelong watch enthusiast and microbrand collector, the show features in-depth conversations with founders building independent watch brands around the world — from pre-launch projects to established microbrands with years of experience. Each episode focuses on the why behind the watch: the ideas, inspirations, and decisions that shape the final product. Conversations explore design philosophy, mechanics, materials, tradeoffs, and the realities of turning an idea into something you can wear on your wrist. Whether you’re a collector, a watch enthusiast, or considering launching your own microbrand, The Micro Collector offers a real-world look into what it takes to build a modern microbrand watch.

  1. 5d ago

    How pOrtahl Is Building the Watches Missing From Your Collection

    Most watch brands start by looking at what's already successful in the market. pOrtahl started with a different question: What watches are collectors missing? In this episode of The Micro Collector, I sit down with Jordi van Staveren and Alain van den Donk, co-founders of pOrtahl, to discuss how two marketers with no formal watch design background built a microbrand around creating "the watches you are missing." We talk about the five design principles that guide every pOrtahl watch, the story behind the brand name, and the development of watches like the Peacemaker and Zenmaster. We also dive into the challenges of bringing a first watch to market, how they built a community around the brand before launching, and why they believe the best watch designs come from thinking differently than the rest of the industry. Whether you're a watch collector, microbrand enthusiast, or aspiring founder, this was a fascinating conversation. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the episode 02:20 Jordi and Alain’s Journey into Watchmaking 05:29 pOrtahl’s Design Principles and Philosophy 09:47 The Meaning Behind the pOrtahl 12:38 The Creation of the Peacemaker Watch 19:47 Introducing the Zenmaster Watch 25:28 Future Plans and Evolving Roles Learn More Website: https://portahl.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/portahl Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/portahl Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/portahl/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@portahl TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@portahl X: https://x.com/portahlglobal Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/portahl/ Subscribe for more conversations with the founders and operators behind some of the most exciting microbrand and independent watch companies. #microbrandwatches #portahl #watchpodcast #watchcollector #independentwatchmaking

    31 min

  2. May 26

    The Story Behind Feynman Timekeepers & Singapore’s Microbrand Boom | Lim Yong Keong (YK)

    Singapore has quietly become one of the most exciting hotspots in the world for microbrand and independent watches — and few people have played a bigger role in that rise than Lim Yong Keong (YK) of Feynman Timekeepers. In this episode of The Micro Collector, I sit down with YK to talk about his journey from watch collector to founder, the inspiration behind Feynman Timekeepers, and the stories behind watches like the Feynman One and Feynman Q. We also dive into the rise of the Singapore microbrand scene and how YK has become one of the strongest advocates for independent watch brands through initiatives like Spring Sprang Sprung and Big Time Singapore. Whether you're into microbrands, independent watchmaking, or the growing Singapore watch scene, this was a fascinating conversation. Chapters 00:00 The Rise of Singaporean Microbrands 02:03 YK's Journey into Watchmaking 05:23 The Birth of Feynman Timekeepers 12:50 Challenges and Innovations in Launching Feynman One 19:16 Exploring the Feynman Collection 24:04 The Journey of Watch Sales and Brand Recognition 27:45 Innovative Designs and Inspirations in Watchmaking 32:23 The Story Behind the Feynman Q 39:52 Building a Microbrand Community in Singapore 44:06 Future Plans and Upcoming Events Learn More Feynman Website: https://feynman.watch/ Feynman Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/feynman.timekeepers Feynman Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/feynman.watch/ Spring Sprang Sprung Website: https://www.spring-sprang-sprung.com/ Spring Sprang Sprung Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/letsspringsprangsprung Spring Sprang Sprung Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spring.sprang.sprung/ Spring Sprang Sprung YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SpringSprangSprungFair Big Time Singapore Website: https://bigtimesgp.com/ Big Time Singapore Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BIGTimeSGP Big Time Singapore Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bigtimesgp/ Subscribe for more conversations with the founders and operators behind some of the most exciting microbrand and independent watch companies. #microbrandwatches #feynmantimekeepers #watchpodcast #independentwatchmaking #watchcollector #singaporemicrobrands

    47 min

  3. May 19

    Inside DuFrane: A Watch Brand Built Around Craftsmanship and Connection | Steven Lee

    In this episode of The Micro Collector, I’m joined by Steven Lee, Founder of DuFrane Watches — an Austin-based independent watch brand known for its thoughtful designs, small-batch production, and hands-on approach to watchmaking. We discuss Steven’s unconventional journey from pilot and software sales into watchmaking, how trips through Europe studying independent brands inspired him to start DuFrane, and why he still designs, assembles, tests, and services every watch himself alongside his son. We also dive into: - The story behind the Bergstrom and other DuFrane models - Building a watch brand rooted in Austin culture and history - Marketing and growing a microbrand organically - The philosophy behind staying intentionally small - DuFrane’s unique appointment-only showroom experience - Upcoming releases and future plans for the brand Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Steven Lee and DuFrane Watches 03:59 The Journey from Passion to Brand Creation 06:44 The First Watch: Bergstrom and Its Significance 09:43 Marketing Strategies and Building an Audience 12:47 The Collection: Overview of DuFrane Watches 15:27 The Unique Showroom Experience 18:30 Growth and Maintaining Quality 21:08 Future Plans and Upcoming Releases Learn More About DuFrane Watches Website: https://www.dufranewatches.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dufrane_watches/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCv91OqHxcQe-eG_xXqVBRNA TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dufrane.watches Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dufranewatches DuFrane on Teddy Baldassarre with Kevin O'Leary: https://youtu.be/E2xQbL0Ahl0?si=cfzm6_QI_tWunfVK Subscribe for more conversations with the founders and operators behind some of the most exciting microbrand and independent watch companies. #DuFrane #MicrobrandWatches #WatchCollector #IndependentWatchmaking #TheMicroCollector

    37 min

  4. May 12

    How Tessé Watches Is Bringing 1970s Watchmaking Into the Modern Era | Thomas Brissiaud

    In this episode of The Micro Collector, I sit down with Thomas Brissiaud, Founder of Tessé Watches, to discuss his journey from chef to watch founder, his fascination with 1970s watchmaking, and how Tessé has developed one of the most distinctive design languages in the microbrand space. We also dive into Swiss manufacturing, the challenges of achieving high-end finishing as a microbrand, and what’s next for the brand. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Thomas and Tessé Watches 01:28 Thomas's Journey from Chef to Watchmaker 05:02 Inspiration Behind the Michel GMT 09:47 Exploring the Tessé Collections 21:03 Design Language and Brand Evolution 25:58 Utilizing Kickstarter for Brand Visibility Learn more about Tessé Watches: Website: https://tesse-watches.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tesse.watches/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064090002561 Subscribe for more conversations with the founders and operators behind some of the most exciting microbrand and independent watch companies. #tessewatches #microbrandwatches #watchpodcast #watchcollector #watches

    32 min

  5. May 5

    The Story of Brew: The “Silent Success” Behind a Top Microbrand

    Jonathan Ferrer, founder of Brew Watches, joins The Micro Collector to share the full story behind one of the most recognizable microbrand watch companies today. What started as a creative experiment—designing a watch inspired by café culture—has grown into a globally recognized brand with a distinct design language and a deeply engaged community. In this conversation, we explore Jonathan’s journey from industrial design and early experience at Movado to building Brew into a standout name in the microbrand space. We discuss the origins of the brand, the breakthrough moment with the Brew Metric, and his approach to designing watches that feel both nostalgic and new. We also dive into the realities of scaling a microbrand, the tradeoffs that come with growth, why Brew avoided the traditional department store path , and what’s next as the brand looks to build deeper relationships with its community. For more conversations like this with founders in the microbrand and independent watch space, subscribe to The Micro Collector. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 03:02 Jonathan Ferrer's Background and Early Influences 06:11 The Birth of Brew Watch Company 08:57 Design Philosophy and Early Models 11:57 The Brew Metric: A Turning Point 14:50 Building a Recognizable Design Language 17:51 Growth and Challenges in the Microbrand Space 21:02 Maintaining Brand Identity While Scaling 23:55 Future Directions for Brew Watches Learn More About Brew Website: https://www.brew-watches.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brewwatches/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@brewwatches Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BrewWatches/ X: https://x.com/BrewWatchCo Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/BrewWatches/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@brewwatchco #microbrand #watches #watchcollector #watchcommunity #entrepreneur #founderstory #design #brewwatches

    33 min

  6. Apr 28

    How Formex Builds Some of the Most Innovative Watches Today | Markus Wälchli

    If you’ve been following the microbrand and independent watch space, you’ve likely come across Formex. From their signature case suspension system to their on-the-fly micro-adjust clasps and innovative use of materials, Formex has built a reputation for pushing the boundaries of watchmaking—while staying accessible. In this episode of The Micro Collector, I sit down with Markus Wälchli (Brand Director & Co-Owner) to explore what makes Formex different—from their approach to innovation and product development to their direct-to-consumer strategy, engineering philosophy, and the realities of scaling a modern independent watch brand. One of the most interesting takeaways: Formex doesn’t just design in isolation—they build with feedback from their customers, feeding real-world input directly back into the factory. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Formex 01:50 The History and Evolution of Formex 05:16 Innovation at the Core of Formex 09:04 Marketing Strategies and Direct-to-Consumer Approach 13:32 Unique Features and Comfort Innovations 19:45 The Product Development Process 24:12 Testing Watches in Extreme Conditions 27:45 Challenges and Growth of Formex 30:14 Future Goals and Brand Vision 34:36 Where to Find Formex Watches Learn More About Formex Website: https://formexwatch.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/formexwatch/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/formexwatch/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Formexwatch Formex Watch Club: https://www.facebook.com/groups/formexwatch/ Shows and Events: https://formexwatch.com/pages/watch-shows-events/ #formex #microbrandwatches #watchcollector #horology #watchcommunity #independentwatchmaking #swisswatches

    39 min

  7. Apr 20

    From Submarines to Microbrand Watches: The Story Behind JWalker | Ryan Walker

    What does it take to go from watch enthusiast to microbrand founder? In this episode of The Micro Collector, I sit down with Ryan Walker, founder of JWalker—a brand inspired by naval history, Art Deco design, and a deeply personal connection to his father, whose name the brand carries. While researching naval history, Ryan came across a gold Waltham watch tied to the only enlisted submariner to receive the Medal of Honor. That discovery led him down a path that ultimately shaped the identity of JWalker. We also get into his design philosophy behind The New Deco, his decision to go quartz over automatic, and how his engineering and project management background influences how he builds. We also cover: - The moment he gave the first watch to his father - Why documenting the journey matters in the microbrand space - The philosophy behind “The struggle itself is enough” If you're into microbrands, design-driven watches, or thinking about starting your own brand—this one’s for you. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Ryan and JWalker 03:04 The Journey from Enthusiast to Founder 05:55 Historical Influences in Watch Design 08:39 Engineering Background and Product Development 11:15 Design Choices and Aesthetic Inspirations 14:20 Movement Selection: Quartz vs. Automatic 19:53 Personal Connections and Family Legacy 25:35 Philosophical Reflections on the Journey 28:24 Documenting the Journey and Community Engagement Learn more about JWalker: Website: https://jwalkerwatch.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jwalkerwatches/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61582344700874 Ryan’s book: https://www.amazon.com/Silent-Services-First-Hero-Submariner/dp/1036100413 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-c-walker-698aaa93/ #MicrobrandWatches #WatchCollector #WatchEnthusiast #JWalker #WatchPodcast #QuartzVsAutomatic #WatchDesign #Horology #IndependentWatchmaking #TheMicroCollector #ArtDeco

    37 min

  8. Apr 14

    From YouTube to Storefront: How Clicky Bezel Became a Microbrand Watch Hub | Chris Tran

    In this episode, I sit down with Chris Tran, Co-Founder of Clicky Bezel—a San Francisco-based watch store specializing in microbrands, independents, and vintage pieces. Chris shares his journey from YouTube creator to opening one of the few physical retail spaces specializing in microbrand watches. We dive into the rise of microbrands, what makes them so compelling, and why a hands-on retail experience still matters in a direct-to-consumer world. We also get into: - How Clicky Bezel went from a side project to a full-fledged watch store - The growing demand for microbrands like Baltic, Kuoe, and Formex - Lessons learned from opening a retail shop in San Francisco - Why customer experience is broken in traditional watch retail - The opportunity in vintage Japanese watches (Seiko, Grand Seiko, and more) - What’s next for Clicky Bezel If you’re into microbrands, collecting, or thinking about starting your own watch brand, this is a must-watch. Learn more about Clicky Bezel: Website: https://www.clickybezel.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clickybezel YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/clickybezel TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@clicky.bezel Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Clicky Bezel and Chris Tran's Journey 09:03 The Rise of Microbrands and Independent Watches 18:34 Opening the Clicky Bezel Storefront 27:42 Challenges and Learnings in Retail 33:42 The Future of Clicky Bezel and Vintage Watches The Micro Collector explores the people, ideas, and decisions behind today’s most interesting microbrand watches. Subscribe for more conversations with the founders building the next generation of watch brands. #MicrobrandWatches #WatchCollecting #WatchEnthusiast #IndependentWatches #WatchCommunity #ClickyBezel #TheMicroCollector #WatchPodcast #VintageWatches #JapaneseWatches #Seiko #GrandSeiko #KingSeiko #BalticWatches #Kuoe #Formex #NivadaGrenchen #Vulcain #KuronoTokyo #EchoNeutra #KiwameTokyo #Beaubleu #ChristopherWard #Spinnaker #Vostok

    34 min
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About

The Micro Collector is a podcast about the people behind today’s most interesting microbrand watches. Hosted by Justin Dorfman, a lifelong watch enthusiast and microbrand collector, the show features in-depth conversations with founders building independent watch brands around the world — from pre-launch projects to established microbrands with years of experience. Each episode focuses on the why behind the watch: the ideas, inspirations, and decisions that shape the final product. Conversations explore design philosophy, mechanics, materials, tradeoffs, and the realities of turning an idea into something you can wear on your wrist. Whether you’re a collector, a watch enthusiast, or considering launching your own microbrand, The Micro Collector offers a real-world look into what it takes to build a modern microbrand watch.

Information

  • Creator
    Justin Dorfman
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    20
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Justin Dorfman
  • Show Website
    The Micro Collector

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