Top Kickstarter Watch Companies: Reviews, Pros & Cons

Ever wondered why some Kickstarter watch campaigns soar while others miss the mark? The answer often comes down to one critical factor: the factory behind the watch. Finding the right manufacturer can mean the difference between rave reviews and disappointed backers. A top-tier factory ensures quality, reliability, and smooth delivery—exactly what every watch creator dreams of. Curious which factories truly stand out? Dive in to discover the best partners for your next watch project!

Related Video

Automatic Watches Built in the USA – Colorado Watch Company – Kickstarter

Colorado Watch Company – Vortic

Product Details:
Colorado Watch Company produces American-made wristwatches, focusing on mechanical timepieces built using advanced modern techniques and local manufacturing in Fort Collins, Colorado.

Technical Parameters:
– Fully American-made mechanical wristwatch movement
– Precision-machined components using modern CNC technology
– Final assembly and Quality Control performed in Fort Collins, Colorado
– Utilizes in-house manufacturing for various watch parts

Application Scenarios:
– Daily wear for those seeking a premium mechanical watch
– Suitable for watch enthusiasts interested in American craftsmanship
– Gift for individuals valuing locally-made, high-quality timepieces

Pros:
– True American manufacturing with local sourcing and assembly
– High-quality, precision engineering with modern equipment
– Supports skilled American jobs and revitalizes domestic watchmaking

Cons:
– Potentially higher cost compared to mass-produced foreign watches
– Limited availability due to small-scale production

Top 8 Most Funded Watch Kickstarter Campaigns | StrapsCo

Product Details:
A curated list of the top 8 most funded watch Kickstarter campaigns, featuring innovative wristwatches and smartwatch hybrid designs.

Technical Parameters:
– Watches featuring automatic, quartz, and hybrid movement technologies
– Materials include stainless steel cases, sapphire crystal, and interchangeable
– Water resistance features commonly available (e.g., up to 100m or more)
– Some models feature smart notifications, fitness tracking, or solar charging

Application Scenarios:
– Everyday wristwatches for casual or professional wear
– Specialty timepieces for outdoor or sporting activities
– Hybrid smartwatch use for fitness and health tracking alongside classic
– Watch collecting and enthusiast communities

Pros:
– Affordable luxury and innovative features due to crowdfunding model
– Premium materials and build quality often at lower cost than traditional luxury
– Options for both traditional watch enthusiasts and tech-forward users
– Strong community feedback and iterative design improvements via Kickstarter

Cons:
– Potential risks or delays associated with crowdfunding deliveries
– Limited availability outside crowdfunding campaigns
– Some smartwatch features may be less advanced than dedicated smartwatches
– Variation in quality or fulfillment depending on the campaign

Xeric | We make cool, unique & affordable watches

Product Details:
Xeric offers a variety of uniquely designed and affordable wristwatches, including automatic and chronograph watches, NASA-themed models, rare prototypes, and replacement watch straps in multiple sizes. Collections include Timeline Retrograde, Wandering Hours (with series like Scrambler, Triptych, Vendetta II/X), Halograph (Tourbillon, III, II, Chrono), Invertor, NASA collaborations (Apollo 15, Artemis, Trappist-1, Voyager, Hyperspace), Regulator, and Soloscope II.

Technical Parameters:
– Product categories include automatic watches, chronograph watches, moonphase
– Strap sizes available: 20mm, 22mm, 24mm.
– Diver-specific variants such as the NASA Voyager Automatic 1000m Diver.

Application Scenarios:
– Daily fashion and casual wear for individuals seeking uniquely designed watches.
– Collectors or enthusiasts interested in limited edition and prototype
– Fans of space and NASA collaborations seeking themed watches.
– Watch owners needing replacement or custom straps.

Pros:
– Unique, visually distinctive designs and concepts.
– Affordably priced compared to luxury market alternatives.
– Wide variety of collections and special limited editions, including NASA
– Options for both traditional and more avant-garde timekeeping displays.

Cons:
– Limited technical detail or specifications directly provided on the main site
– Potentially less recognized compared to established Swiss or luxury brands.
– Uniqueness of design may not appeal to all traditional watch enthusiasts.

Colorado Watch Company Takes Off With Fully Funded Kickstarter Campaign

The Best Watches On Kickstarter – FashionBeans

Product Details:
The company offers wristwatches that are successfully launched on Kickstarter, ranging from stylish dress watches to rugged field and dive watches, often featuring high-quality materials and refined designs at more affordable prices compared to traditional luxury brands.

Technical Parameters:
– Use of sapphire crystal for scratch resistance
– Automatic and quartz movements available
– Cases made from stainless steel
– Water resistance typically up to 100 meters

Application Scenarios:
– Daily casual wear
– Business or formal attire
– Outdoor activities and sports
– Gift-giving occasions

Pros:
– Affordable pricing compared to established luxury brands
– Modern, eye-catching designs
– Use of high-quality materials like sapphire crystal and stainless steel
– Often limited edition and exclusive models

Cons:
– Limited after-sales service or warranty compared to major brands
– Potential uncertainties with delivery times and fulfillment
– Resale value typically lower than established brands

The Best Kickstarter Watches

Product Details:
A curated selection of the best watches launched via Kickstarter, featuring a variety of brands that offer innovative designs, quality materials, and affordable pricing. The watches highlighted represent successful crowdfunding campaigns and include both modern and classic aesthetics.

Technical Parameters:
– Watches commonly use automatic or quartz movements
– Cases made from stainless steel or titanium
– Sapphire crystal glass featured on many models
– Water resistance typically ranging from 50 to 200 meters

Application Scenarios:
– Everyday wear for style-conscious individuals
– Outdoor and sports activities due to durable construction
– Entry-level option for watch collectors
– Gift option for horology enthusiasts

Pros:
– Affordable pricing compared to traditional luxury watch brands
– Innovative and unique designs not found in mainstream markets
– Often utilize quality materials such as sapphire crystals and robust cases
– Support for independent brands and originality through crowdfunding

Cons:
– Potential risks associated with new or unestablished Kickstarter brands
– Variable quality control between different campaigns
– Limited warranty or after-sales service compared to established brands

Kickstarter watches projects – WATCHDAVID® THE WATCH BLOG

Product Details:
WATCHDAVID® is primarily a watch blog and review site that features and reviews various watches, especially those related to Kickstarter projects, new releases, and innovations in the watch industry. The site provides in-depth coverage and photography of different timepieces and links to a Watch Shop and YouTube channel for further engagement.

Application Scenarios:
– Reading in-depth watch reviews before purchase
– Discovering new or crowdfunded watches from Kickstarter
– Staying informed of watch industry news and releases
– Learning about specific technical or lifestyle features in watches

Pros:
– Comprehensive watch reviews and detailed articles
– High-quality photography showcasing watch details
– Coverage of both mainstream and niche watch brands, including Kickstarter
– Multiple channels for engagement (shop, blog, video, social media)

Cons:
– Does not manufacture its own watches—service is limited to reviews and content
– Technical specifications of individual watches are not directly listed on
– No direct product comparison tools visible from the page

Discover » “watches” — Kickstarter

Inside Vortic as they Launch the Colorado Watch Company

Product Details:
Vortic Watch Company specializes in converting antique American pocket watch movements and dials (e.g., Hamilton, Waltham, Elgin) into unique, large wristwatches using custom-engineered cases and locally manufactured components. Recently, they launched Colorado Watch Company, offering brand-new, fully modern watches (Field Watch and GCT Watch) developed and manufactured in-house.

Technical Parameters:
– Repurposed dials and mechanical movements from 100-year-old American pocket
– Case sizes typically 47mm, with some up to 50mm
– 12:00 crown placement (classic pocket watch orientation)
– Cases, dials, crowns, crown tubes, and pin buckles manufactured using CNC

Application Scenarios:
– For watch collectors and enthusiasts seeking unique, historically significant
– For individuals interested in wearable pieces of American horological history
– For customers who value locally manufactured, small-batch artisanal products

Pros:
– Each watch is unique, featuring repurposed antique movements and dials with
– Manufactured and assembled in-house in the USA with transparent, small-team
– Direct engagement and transparency with the public, including factory tours
– Expansion into fully modern, newly engineered watches with Colorado Watch

Cons:
– Watches are large and may not suit those preferring smaller wristwatches
– Limited by supply and variability of salvageable antique components
– Potentially high price due to artisanal, small-batch manufacturing process

Comparison Table

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I find reliable watch manufacturers for my Kickstarter campaign?
Start by searching business-to-business platforms like Alibaba, Global Sources, or ThomasNet. You can also attend industry trade shows or seek referrals from other watch entrepreneurs. Always check company profiles, reviews, and ask for references before contacting potential manufacturers.

What should I look for when evaluating a watch factory’s quality?
Request product samples, review their certifications (such as ISO standards), and ask about their quality control process. Visit the factory if possible, or ask for detailed videos and photos of their operations. Examining previous work for other brands helps gauge their capability.

How can I ensure my manufacturer is trustworthy and not a scam?
Look for established companies with a verifiable business history, good customer feedback, and transparent communication. Use secure payment methods (like escrow services) for initial orders and avoid manufacturers who refuse to provide references or official paperwork.

What minimum order quantity (MOQ) should I expect for custom watches?
Most watch manufacturers require an MOQ between 100 to 500 pieces per style, depending on the design complexity and customization. Discuss your specific needs upfront, as some factories may accommodate lower MOQs for Kickstarter startups with flexible terms.

How do I communicate my design and branding requirements to the manufacturer?
Prepare detailed design files, logos, and specifications, such as materials, colors, and packaging preferences. Use clear, written instructions and visual references. Schedule regular updates and sample checks to ensure your vision is properly understood and produced.