Majestic Craftsmen is an Indian independent watch brand that has recently emerged in the microbrand horology sector. The company positions itself as a manufacturer of meticulously designed timepieces that aim to showcase Indian craftsmanship and heritage. By focusing on original designs and technical modifications, the brand seeks to establish a presence for Indian luxury watchmaking on the global stage.
The brand was founded by Abhinand and Rakesh Murthy, two watch enthusiasts who initially gained recognition within the enthusiast community for their work with HMT watches. Their background includes the creation of the HMT Varchas limited edition project, which utilized a popular Tiffany blue dial. This experience in servicing, repairing, and modding watches served as the foundation for launching their own independent venture.
Based in India, the founders established Majestic Craftsmen with the mission of redefining domestic watchmaking. They operate by collaborating with a network of trusted manufacturing partners across India to produce their components. This approach is intended to challenge the reliance on external manufacturing and to prove that high-quality, complex timepieces can be engineered and assembled within the country.
Enthusiasts are often drawn to Majestic Craftsmen for their commitment to cultural storytelling integrated into modern watch designs. Rather than using literal or overt symbols, the brand incorporates historical and national motifs through subtle design elements, such as specific dial layouts and hidden lume patterns. This balance of heritage and contemporary aesthetics has made their releases popular among collectors looking for meaningful, artsy pieces.
Another factor contributing to the brand’s appeal is the focus on technical specifications that offer high value for the price. The watches typically feature sapphire crystals, 316L stainless steel cases, and significant water resistance ratings, often reaching 100 meters. These robust features, combined with regulated automatic movements, provide a level of durability and precision that is highly regarded in the microbrand community.
One of the brand’s key pieces is the Monarch, a timepiece inspired by the legacy of Emperor Ashoka and the Ashoka Chakra. The watch features a sector dial layout with a diamond-cut pattern on the inner ring, creating a play of light. A notable hidden detail is the luminous pattern on the dial that reveals the “spokes” of the Chakra in dark conditions, serving as a subtle nod to Indian history.
The Monarch is also recognized for its “Weekdater” modification, which reintroduces a complication popularized in the 1960s. The founders modified a Miyota 8205 movement to display a full day window at the 6 o’clock position and a date window at 3 o’clock. To enhance the aesthetic, the brand uses a “gilt” or gold-tone version of the movement, which is visible through a screw-down exhibition caseback.
Another significant model in their catalog is the Eye of the Tiger, a watch designed to raise awareness for tiger conservation. The 38 mm case is inspired by the physique of a tiger, while the dial’s colors and textures are meant to evoke the animal’s eye. The caseback is etched with paw prints as a reminder of the brand’s commitment to supporting the protection of India’s tiger population.
The Eye of the Tiger features a reliable automatic movement and maintains the brand’s signature attention to detail in finishing. It has been noted for its wearability and serves as a conversation starter due to the emotional and conservation-focused story behind its design. This model further highlights the brand’s strategy of using horology as a medium for social and cultural expression.
In summary, Majestic Craftsmen represents a new wave of Indian independent horology driven by enthusiasts-turned-founders. Through models like the Monarch and Eye of the Tiger, the brand combines technical modifications with deep-rooted cultural narratives. By maintaining stringent quality control and focusing on original design language, they continue to build a reputation as a significant contributor to the Indian microbrand landscape.
