This Independent Watchmaker is Like Nothing Else You Can Buy Right Now

If you've been following my YouTube channel or my Instagram, you know I'm always on the hunt for something fresh in the watch world—pieces that break the mold and tell a story beyond the usual suspects. Well, today I'm diving into Holthinrichs, an independent Dutch watchmaker that's been on my radar for a while. Bold dials, 3D printed sculptural innovative cases, and a design that evokes vintage cars and Sci-fi at the same time. After getting my hands on them and meeting the charismatic owner at the Hype NYC event during NYC Watch Week.

At the Hype NYC event held in a small hotel conference room during NYC Watch Week I met with the owner and founder of Holthinrichs Watches Michiel Holthinrichs, a Dutch architect-turned-watchmaker—a super approachable guy who's as passionate about his creations. We spent the good part of 2 hours about geeking out over his creations.

Let's start with the cases. Everything here is 3D-printed in Grade 5 titanium, giving them this organic, almost sculptural vibe inspired by classic car fenders and Art Nouveau curves. The lugs sweep out like ribbons, polished on top but left raw on the sides from the printing process, creating a cool two-tone effect—darker and matte where it's untreated, gleaming where it's polished. At 38mm across, with a 44.7mm lug-to-lug and just 9.8mm thick (thanks to the slim Sellita SW300-1 movement inside), these wear like a dream on my 7.5-inch wrist. Lightweight as due to the titanium, and the shape hugs your arm like a tonneau case. 50 meters of water resistance solid for daily wear.

First up, the rose gold dial version. The dial on this one's a wild ride—multi-layered with a metallic base that is rose or yellow gold, topped by a domed sapphire crystal layer printed with the minute track and the Holthinrichs logo. Then there's a chapter ring with lume-filled indices, and hands that are organically shaped and also packed with lume. The whole thing has this depth and texture that plays with light and shadows. It's modern, it's arty, and organic.

Switching gears to the ceramic "Delft" dial model—named after that classic Dutch blue-and-white pottery. This one's more restrained, with custom Breguet numerals in blue, a signed "Holthinrichs" at 12 o'clock, and skeletonized blue hands (no lume here). The ceramic gives it a dressy, elegant feel without the extra sapphire layer, making it slimmer and more traditional. But don't think it's boring; the blue pops against the titanium, and it's a nod to the brand's Dutch roots—all components except the Swiss movement are made in the Netherlands.

Peeking at the back, both have screwed-in case back that matches the organic theme, a customized, hand-finished rotor on the SW300-1 is a nice touch—visible through the sapphire exhibition window. The clasp is 3D-printed too, signed and skeletonized echoing the case.

On the wrist, these feel premium yet approachable. The rose gold dial is my pick for its layered craziness—it's like wearing a piece of modern art. The ceramic is classy yet modern and clean, Holthinrichs offers something truly unique. Head over to their site (holthinrichswatches.com) and see for yourself.

What do you think? Rose gold or Delft blue? Drop a comment below. Until next time, keep those wrists interesting.

And if you want the full hands-on breakdown, here's the video: https://youtu.be/0fhB28hay2Q