Holthinrichs Watches

Holthinrichs Watches | Dutch Independent Haute Horlogerie

Founded in Delft, Netherlands, in 2016, Holthinrichs Watches is an independent horological atelier created by Dutch architect-turned-watchmaker Michiel Holthinrichs. The brand translates architectural principles into wearable mechanical sculpture, combining sculptural forms, ornamental detailing and advanced manufacturing with traditional hand-finishing. Its pioneering use of metal 3D printing first gained attention through the Ornament 1, while later creations have progressively incorporated proprietary movements and increasingly sophisticated in-house capabilities. The brand's design philosophy is rooted in the idea of “architecture on the wrist,” with Art Nouveau, Art Deco, early Modernism and architectural ornament influencing its cases and dials. Major creations include the Ornament, Signature, Deconstructed and Ornament Nouveau, while the Holthinrichs Haute Horlogerie division represents its move deeper into independent high horology. In 2026, the atelier is celebrating its tenth anniversary with the new Signature LAB Series 1. 

Founder — Michiel Holthinrichs

Michiel Holthinrichs is a Dutch architect, designer and independent watchmaker who founded Holthinrichs Watches in Delft. While studying architecture at Delft University of Technology, he began collecting and repairing vintage watches, discovering that mechanical horology combined many of the disciplines that fascinated him in architecture: proportion, engineering, ornament, materials and craftsmanship. His early sketches evolved into the Ornament 1, and after years of experimentation with metal additive manufacturing, he established his independent brand in 2016. Holthinrichs has since developed a distinctive approach in which modern 3D-printing technology is used to create forms that would be difficult or impossible to achieve through conventional manufacturing. His architectural background remains fundamental to the brand's identity and philosophy.