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. 1d ago

    How Serica Is Building One of Modern Watchmaking's Most Distinctive Design Languages

    Serica has become one of the most respected names in independent watchmaking, creating watches that combine the rugged capability of true tool watches with a level of elegance and refinement that feels completely their own. In this episode of The Micro Collector, I sit down with co-founders Jérôme Burgert and Gabriel Vachette to discuss how they built Serica from the ground up, the philosophy behind their distinctive design language, and why every detail—from the case and dial to the bracelet and clasp—is intentionally designed. We also discuss why Serica removed its logo from the dial, how the brand approaches expanding its collection while staying true to its identity, and get an early look at the new Serica Ref. 7505. If you're interested in independent watchmaking, product design, or branding, I think you'll enjoy this conversation. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Serica Watches 00:20 The Founding Story of Serica 03:08 The Evolution of Serica's First Watch 05:42 Roles and Responsibilities in the Brand 08:27 Craftsmanship and Quality Control 10:23 Overview of Current Collections 13:06 Design Philosophy and Brand Identity 15:45 The Unique Approach to Branding 18:25 Investment in Straps and Bracelets 21:09 Sneak Peek of the New Watch 23:41 The Boutique Experience 26:20 Conclusion and Future Plans Learn More About Serica Website: https://serica-watches.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sericawatches/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sericawatches/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@serica_watches Pinterest: https://fr.pinterest.com/SericaWatches/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@sericawatches LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/serica-watches/ 🎙️Subscribe to The Micro Collector for more conversations with the founders and operators behind some of the world's most exciting microbrand and independent watch companies. #serica #sericawatches #microbrandwatches #watchpodcast #toolwatch #fieldwatch #watchcollector #independentwatchmaking #watches #watchmaking

    38 min

  2. Jun 23

    Building Watches for Explorers, Adventurers, and Living Life to the Fullest | Michael Happé, Gavox

    What happens when an IT consultant decides to follow his passion and build watches for explorers, adventurers, and military professionals? In this episode of The Micro Collector, Justin Dorfman sits down with Michael Happé, founder of Gavox, to discuss his journey from IT consultant to watchmaker, the aviation roots that inspired the brand, and how Gavox became a trusted partner for military and air force squadrons around the world. Along the way, they explore the stories behind standout models like the Aurora and Legacy Ultima Necat, why engineering and storytelling go hand in hand, and how Michael approaches designing watches that are meant to be used—not just admired. But more than anything, this is a conversation about purpose, adventure, and making the most of the time we have. Michael’s passion for watches—and for living a life full of curiosity, exploration, and meaning—is truly inspiring. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Gavox and Michael's Journey 03:56 The Influence of Aviation on Watch Design 07:01 Transitioning from IT to Watchmaking 09:47 Collaborative Design with Military Pilots 12:27 Exploring the Gavox Collection 15:18 The Story Behind Each Watch 18:03 Watches for Diplomats and Royalty 20:58 The Meaning Behind the Legacy Ultima Necat 23:25 Future Plans and Upcoming Events Learn More About Gavox Website: https://www.gavox.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gavoxwatches/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gavoxwatches X: https://x.com/GavoxWatches YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@gavoxwatches Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/GAVOXWATCHES/gavox-watches/ If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and let me know in the comments which Gavox watch you'd add to your collection. #gavoxwatches #microbrandwatches #independentwatchmaking #militarywatches #pilotwatches #divewatches #toolwatches #watchcollector #themicrocollector

    31 min

  3. Jun 17

    How Farer Is Reimagining Classic Watch Design | James Mulvale

    Farer has built a reputation for taking classic watch genres — GMTs, world timers, moonphases, divers, chronographs, and pilot’s watches — and making them feel fresh through bold color, texture, materials, and thoughtful design. In this episode of The Micro Collector, I’m joined by James Mulvale, Content and Communications Manager at Farer, to discuss the story behind the brand, its design philosophy, the balance of British design and Swiss manufacturing, and how Farer has grown such a broad collection while maintaining a clear identity. We also get into some of Farer’s most popular models, the advantages of its direct-to-consumer approach, the role of events and in-person experiences, and what collectors can expect next from the brand. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to The Micro Collector podcast 02:30 James's Journey into the Watch Industry 05:35 The Origin Story of Farer Watches 08:15 Exploring the Farer Collection 11:04 Design Philosophy and Unique Aesthetics 13:53 Popular Models and Their Appeal 16:39 Quality and Value in British Design 19:37 Direct-to-Consumer Strategies 22:08 The Importance of In-Person Experiences 24:54 Upcoming Releases and Innovations 27:31 Conclusion and Future Engagement Learn More About Farer Website: https://farer.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/FarerUniversal/ Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/FarerUniversal Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/326984351476161 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDiNWw2T3gh9H5KnT7YzlTw If you enjoyed this conversation, please like, subscribe, and leave a comment with your favorite Farer model. #farerwatches #microbrandwatches #independentwatchmaking #watchcollecting #swissmadewatches #britishwatchdesign #themicrocollector

    41 min

  4. Jun 9

    Inside the Watch Industry: Market Trends, Microbrands & What's Next | Daniel Malins, Watch Insider

    What’s really happening inside the watch industry? In this episode of The Micro Collector, I sit down with Daniel Malins, CEO of Watch Insider, a media platform focused on the business side of the watch industry. Daniel shares his perspective on the current state of the watch market, the rise of microbrands and independent watchmakers, why collectors are increasingly embracing smaller brands, and what separates successful watch companies from those that struggle to gain traction. We also discuss the resurgence of heritage watch brands, changing consumer behavior, and Daniel’s predictions for where the watch industry is headed over the next several years. Whether you're a collector, founder, or simply interested in the business behind watches, this conversation offers a unique insider perspective on one of the world's most fascinating industries. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Watch Insider and Daniel's Background 09:28 Current State of the Watch Industry 18:19 The Rise of Microbrands and Independent Watchmaking 27:16 Consumer Trends and the Shift Towards Microbrands 35:57 Revival of Heritage Brands in the Watch Industry Learn More About Watch Insider Watch Insider Website: https://watchinsider.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/watchinsiderofficial/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578754416471 Subscribe for more conversations with the founders, operators, and people shaping the world of microbrand and independent watches. #watchinsider #watchindustry #microbrandwatches #independentwatchmaking #watchcollecting #watches #luxurywatches #watchcollector #watchpodcast #horology #watchenthusiast

    36 min

  5. Jun 2

    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

  6. 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

  7. 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

  8. 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
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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
    24
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Justin Dorfman
  • Show Website
    The Micro Collector

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