In an industry often bound by tradition, Furlan Marri has managed to capture the hearts of collectors worldwide in just a few years. Blending vintage-inspired aesthetics, modern manufacturing, and a democratic pricing philosophy, the brand stands as proof that exceptional watchmaking can be accessible without compromise. This is not just another microbrand—it’s a testament to how passion and storytelling can redefine the rules of the game.
Origins Rooted in Passion and Precision
Founded in 2021 by Andrea Furlan, a Swiss watch designer, and Hamza Marri, a Dubai-based entrepreneur and collector, the brand was born out of a shared love for horology and design. The duo combined Swiss watchmaking expertise with a deep appreciation for the golden age of chronographs. From the outset, their mission was clear: create watches that deliver the look, feel, and detailing of vintage mechanical pieces, but at a fraction of the price and with a modern twist. Their debut collection launched through Kickstarter—a bold move that resonated with a global audience hungry for authenticity. In less than a month, Furlan Marri became one of the most successful watch crowdfunding campaigns ever, firmly placing the brand on the industry’s radar.
A Philosophy of Thoughtful Watchmaking
Furlan Marri’s design philosophy is deeply rooted in proportion, detail, and narrative. The brand doesn’t merely reproduce vintage designs—it reinterprets them. Every case line, dial texture, and hand shape is meticulously considered, creating timepieces that evoke the romance of mid-20th-century watchmaking while meeting modern expectations for reliability and comfort.
Their early use of mechaquartz movements allowed for an affordable entry point without sacrificing the tactile feel of mechanical chronographs. This approach was not about cutting corners but about offering a gateway to fine watchmaking. As the brand evolved, so did its ambitions, introducing Swiss mechanical calibers with equally refined case finishing, hand-applied indices, and layered dials. The result is a collection that balances design purity, technical integrity, and a price-to-quality ratio that rivals far older and more established names.
Signature Creations and Defining Collections
The watch that arguably started it all, the “Mechaquartz Chronograph” series, demonstrated the brand’s mastery of case finishing at an accessible price. With sculpted lugs inspired by the Patek Philippe ref. 1463 and dials echoing the sophistication of 1940s and 50s chronographs, these pieces immediately became cult favorites. Collectors praised their mix of brushed and polished surfaces, domed sapphire crystals, and dials rich in vintage cues.
The transition to fully mechanical watches came with the Three Hands Mechanical collection, including the refined “Black Sector” and “Salmon Sector” dials. These models use Swiss-made automatic movements and showcase a level of finishing—polished bevels, circular graining, and finely executed typography—that’s rare at this price level. Each release is limited in quantity, adding an element of scarcity that fuels desirability without falling into the trap of artificial hype.
Furlan Marri’s Place in Today’s Watch Landscape
Today, Furlan Marri occupies a unique space in the horological ecosystem. It appeals to seasoned collectors who recognize the historical references and appreciate the brand’s meticulous execution, as well as to newcomers seeking their first “serious” watch. The distribution model is primarily direct-to-consumer, with occasional collaborations and limited retail partnerships, ensuring close control over quality and brand image.
Among enthusiasts, the brand enjoys a reputation for authenticity and transparency—qualities often lacking in the broader market. In just a few short years, it has moved from an ambitious Kickstarter project to a serious independent brand recognized at major industry events and featured by top watch media. This swift rise is a reminder that, in the right hands, design-driven watchmaking still has the power to cut through the noise.
A Personal Take: Why Furlan Marri Matters
Furlan Marri is more than a microbrand success story—it’s a signpost for where the watch industry can and should go. In an age where price inflation often feels detached from tangible value, this brand delivers emotional connection, craftsmanship, and storytelling at a scale that makes fine watchmaking approachable. It’s the kind of company that reminds us why we fell in love with watches in the first place: the details, the history, the shared passion.
Whether you’re an old hand in collecting or just beginning your journey, Furlan Marri offers something rare—a watch you can cherish for its looks, its build, and the sincerity behind its creation. That is the true measure of modern horological relevance, which reminds us of another micro-brand worth the detour : Kurono Tokyo !
