Mark Stegman is an American entrepreneur and watch enthusiast recognized as a co-founder and co-owner of the Cincinnati Watch Company. His professional involvement in the horological industry began with the creation of Build Your Own Watch, a venture established alongside business partner Rick Bell. This original initiative was designed to provide enthusiasts with the components and instruction necessary to assemble and case their own timepieces, fostering a hands-on connection between consumers and watch mechanics.

In 2018, Stegman and Bell transitioned their business model to establish the Cincinnati Watch Company as a formal microbrand. This evolution was marked by the release of the Union Terminal Watch and the P-40M Pilot watch. Stegman played a key role in the brand’s mission to celebrate local heritage, specifically through the development of timepieces inspired by Cincinnati landmarks. A notable example is the Union Terminal watch, created in collaboration with the Cincinnati Museum Center to honor the historic Art Deco clock at the city’s Union Terminal.

Under the leadership of Stegman, Bell, and later co-owner and watchmaker Jordan Ficklin, the company has emphasized three core principles: community support, unique custom design, and high-quality assembly. Stegman has been instrumental in implementing a business model where a portion of the proceeds from every watch sale benefits local non-profit institutions, such as the Freestore Foodbank and the Tri-State Warbird Museum.

Based in Cincinnati, Ohio, Stegman’s work contributes to the revival of regional watchmaking. The company distinguishes itself by performing assembly, testing, and regulation of its watches in-house, a practice Stegman and his partners adopted to ensure quality control and to bring jobs back to the local community. Today, Stegman continues to manage the business as a co-owner, focusing on creating unique, historically-informed timepieces that maintain a strong cultural identity tied to the city of Cincinnati.