Top 3 Trending Australian Watch Brands

1. Creux Automatiq

Creux was founded in 2016 by Kiwi rapper-turned-jeweler Dane Rumble as a passion project. What initially sets these watches apart from other indie, micro, or Kickstarter brands is their distinctive look. Creux embraces a modern aesthetic influenced by high-end names like Richard Mille, Audemars Piguet, and Hublot. Their designs feature an exaggerated tonneau shape, a skeletonized dial, exposed bezel screws, and sporty rubber straps. While these elements are familiar, they are executed in a way that feels both original and refreshing, rather than simply derivative or overly imitative.

I first connected with Dane Rumble, the founder of Creux Automatiq, in 2020. Dane isn’t just passionate about watches; he also brings extensive experience in jewelry retailing and design through his business, Culet Jewellery, which operates in both Australia and New Zealand. This jewelry background provides him with a solid foundation in both watch design and market trends. Creux Automatiq began with a sterling silver case crafted in Australia before transitioning to Swiss manufacturing for its watches. This approach sets Creux apart from many modern enthusiast-run brands that often rely on more affordable Asian production. Swiss manufacturing typically ensures superior quality components and meticulous attention to detail.

Learn More: https://www.creuxautomatiq.com/

2. Bausele

Bausele is a standout local watch brand that seamlessly blends Swiss craftsmanship with distinctive Australian design. Founded by Christophe Hoppe in 2011, whose passion for watches and deep connection to Australia inspired the brand, Bausele is the first to merge Swiss quality with a uniquely Australian touch.

Each Bausele timepiece features a signature hollow crown and incorporates a genuine element of Australia—whether it's red earth from the Outback, sand from a renowned Australian beach, or opal, known as the ‘Aussie diamond.’ This innovative design approach has distinguished Bausele from both Swiss and local competitors.

The brand also boasts a boutique in The Rocks, Sydney, a fitting location for this quintessentially Australian brand. Recently, Bausele made history as the first Australian watchmaker to showcase at Watches & Wonders and Geneva Watch Days, two of the watch industry’s premier events.

Learn more: https://www.bausele.com/

3. Nicholas Hacko

Nicholas Hacko is a legendary figure among Australian watch enthusiasts, is Australia’s only true master watchmaker and the creator of the most authentically Australian timepieces.

After facing refusals for spare parts from major Swiss brands, Hacko was inspired to develop his own watches. To today, Hacko’s creations remain the only timepieces that are entirely designed, assembled, adjusted, and manufactured in Australia—a remarkable achievement.

Hacko has also made significant innovations in the field of watchmaking. He was the first to work with Timascus, an exotic titanium alloy known for its striking colors, and has pioneered guilloched titanium dials. This year, Hacko will be showcasing a watch in the inaugural Louis Vuitton Watch Prize for Independent Creatives competition.

Nicholas Hacko watches are not only impeccably crafted and impressive but also represent the pinnacle of Australian watchmaking. With limited production runs, these watches are quickly snapped up. If you manage to secure one, you’ll be owning a remarkable piece of horological art while supporting the future of Australian manufacturing.

Learn more: https://www.nicholashacko.com.au/