Now that the fervor of Watches & Wonders 2026 is over, it is the perfect time to take a closer look at some of the microbrands in the horological world that are making significant noise. And while I am a fan of the titans in the industry, what is even exciting can be the releases of new timepieces from smaller brands that are dedicated to excellence.
Haute-Rive: A Family Legacy Forged in Steel
I have chronicled plenty of watches for The Manual, and noted many emerging microbrands on the rise, but never this one and I predict that collectors will remember the name Haute-Rive. Because you may not know it yet, but you definitely will. The brand, founded by Stéphane von Gunten — an engineer and watchmaker whose career includes stints at Patek Philippe and Ulysse Nardin — resurrects the historic workshop of his ancestor Irénée Aubry, established in 1888 on the shores of Lake Neuchâtel. Aubry was known for pocket watches that could run for weeks on a single wind. That obsession with extreme power reserve lies at the heart of the Honoris collection. Haute-Rive’s latest release proves that true independence is about movement imagination.
The Strato Verde & Strato Blu: Transformative Design Is Here
Previously available only in gold, the Honoris now comes in premium stainless steel for a result that is undeniably transformative. The 42.5mm case now boasts impeccable finishing, with polished surfaces catching the light, and brushed sections anchoring the design to evoke a cooler, more contemporary piece that is ultimately more wearable. The rotating bezel has been subtly redesigned with fewer serrations. The function selector at 2 o’clock and the small crown remain, keeping in line with the watch’s distinct ergonomic signature. Note that this watch is only water resistant up to 30 meters, making it a statement of mechanical ambition.
A Dial That Reveals Exactly What Matters
The Strato Verde features a dark green, grained texture while the Strato Blu features a rich blue, brushed finish that resembles light dancing on water. At 12 o’clock, the signature wheel of time dominates the display. The central gear train is held by a four-pillar bridge that is slightly more angular than earlier iterations. At 6 o’clock, the flying tourbillon operates in a slow, hypnotic dance. And the, which is coiled inside the barrel and measures over three meters.
41 Days of Power Reserve. Single Barrel. No Compromise.
The in-house caliber HR01 delivers an estimated 41 days of power reserve from a single barrel. This places Haute-Rive in a small club in horological circles, sharing the stage with the A. Lange & Söhne 31 at 31 days and the Hublot MP-05 at 50. The rotating bezel provides a functional solution to the winding process. To set the time, wearers simply press the pusher at 2 o’clock to engage a column-wheel-based function selector. Located on the case back is a power-reserve indicator noting the remaining days of power.
Limited Production, Unlimited Attention
Haute-Rive produces 10 watches per year across the entire Honoris collection. Each is made to order, and doubles down on the notion of a brand with the ability to bring the very best to the table for watch connoisseurs. Haute-Rive is clearly committed to heritage and controlling the narrative through exceptional design.
The Takeaway: Why Haute-Rive Deserves Your Attention Now
Those closely following the watchmaking world know we are currently in a golden age. And while major houses will always have their place, the most interesting work today can be discovered in small workshops where decisions are made on the fly and without committee. I admire Haute-Rive for their technical prowess and a singular point of view that is never mundane or safe. They are not for everyone, and the brand is all the better for it.
Triston Brewer is a regular contributor to The Manual, where he covers the intersection of luxury, travel, and style. With a talent for finding the best in luxury goods around the world—from independent watchmakers to emerging fashion houses—he brings a global perspective shaped by decades on the ground at Fashion Weeks and trade shows across four continents.
