Marc Frankel is an American entrepreneur and mechanical engineer best known as the founder of the online retail platform Long Island Watch and its house brand, Islander. His career in the horological industry began in 2003 when he established Long Island Watch as a part-time venture while working as a mechanical engineer. Originally operated as a hobby driven by his personal interest in watch collecting, the business was launched from his home in New York and initially focused on selling established brands like Seiko and Citizen.
Over the next two decades, Frankel transitioned from a secondary career in engineering to a full-time role as a prominent figure in the independent watch retail sector. He built a significant following within the enthusiast community through educational and transparent content on YouTube, where he provides technical insights and industry analysis. This direct-to-consumer approach helped establish Long Island Watch as a specialized destination for affordable, high-quality timepieces, particularly focusing on microbrands and German and Japanese manufacturers.
In 2019, Frankel expanded his business by launching Islander, a brand designed to address specific demands within the watch enthusiast market. The brand was initially recognized for offering upgraded versions of classic silhouettes, incorporating features such as sapphire crystals, ceramic bezels, and improved mechanical movements at accessible price points. Under Frankel’s leadership, Islander has grown to include over 200 unique models, ranging from divers and GMTs to dress watches, often named after locations on Long Island.
Beyond his commercial activities, Frankel is noted for his focus on customer service and community engagement. He has been involved in charitable initiatives, such as the creation of the Islander Journey watch, where the total proceeds were donated to the Brian LaViolette Scholarship Foundation. Today, Frankel continues to oversee both the retail operations of Long Island Watch and the design direction of the Islander brand, remaining a central figure in the modern microbrand landscape.