Written by Peter Brooker in Tips & Advice on the 21st January 2016

For the watch enthusiasts amongst you, it brings me great pleasure to introduce some brands that have been on my radar for the last couple of months, and have been tipped to create some big waves within the industry. In no particular order I present the top 5 watch brands you should know.

HERITOR WATCHES

The Heritor like its namesake has a wide demographic and can be worn by any generation. The strength and depth of the Heritor collections offers versatility. Personal favourites of mine include the Thomson HR1102. It spoke to me when I clicked on the site. It oozes elegance thanks to the unpolluted analogue dials matched with the sapphire coated mineral crystal. Paired with the genuine leather crocodile embossed strap makes this a sophisticated and striking watch that will turn a head or two. Or for that vintage feel, the OLDS HR3204 also caught my eye. The brushed stainless steel silver circle case frames the black analogue dial and pronounced white numbers beautifully. The camel leather band is the finishing touch for that classic authentic retro aesthetic.

REIGN WATCHES 

A brand that prides itself on attention to detail and bespoke craftsmanship. From the collection the Targaryen really leapt out. It boasts a stainless steel logo encased clasp and I like the intricate date dial, accentuated by the luminous hands. Available in three styles, though I have a penchant for the black. Switching gears with something a little modern from the range is the Zhu addition. The carbon fibre pattern dial and the slightly 'boxier' aesthetic give it a noticeable presence. The luminous marks and magnified date display really lured me in. It has an undeniable mysterious quality to it that I find enchanting. The more I look at it, the more I'm seduced.

EARTH WATCHES 

Not exclusive to vegans, Earth Watches can be worn by anyone who is Eco-conscious. Made from organic wood they can be worn by both men and women as a symbol of the preservation of earth. The brand has a plethora of styles, but I have opted to plum for the INDIOS - EW230. The sustainable zebra wood casing and bracelet has this wonderful archaic feel. Like it's from another world or pardon the pun, another time. It's affordable and will certainly compliment any casual wear. The quality of the watch ensures that this is by far a gimmicky product, which it could so easily be had the brand not put the time and care into producing a sustainable product. For something a little more flamboyant check out the TETON - EW390. Again it's a brave approach, but then once you go down the path of having an Earth Watch, why pull the punches.

MORPHIC WATCHES 

Morphic Watches have a philosophy of embracing the future and the present. Whilst appreciating the heritage of the chronograph, the 21st Century awaits. Immediately when you peruse the collections they have an air of something you'd see John Connor wearing in one of the Terminator films. The standout collection for me is the M35 Series with the orange analogue dial. It has a crisp aesthetic with a contrast black silicone band and stainless steel casing. A heavy duty industrial design with a youthful feel.

SHIELD WATCHES 

Lastly I'd like to introduce you to Shield Watches. Designed to endure rugged abuse. The majority of diving watches reach 600 feet of resistance. Shield pushes the limits with 1640 feet, made capable by the helium release valve. The Haig collection really stood out for me. It has accurate Swiss Quartz movement and a fibre weaved leaver strap that blends the classic maritime look with a modern aesthetic.

We feature the Heritor watch, reign watch, earth watch, morphic watch, and shield watch in this guide to 5 Great Watch Brands You've Never Heard Of.