Vikram Narula is an Indian entrepreneur and the founder of Ajwain Watches, an independent watch brand based in Mumbai. His transition into the horological industry followed a successful career in the corporate world, where he worked as an executive for several years. Driven by a lifelong fascination with mechanical timepieces—a passion influenced by his father’s personal collection—Narula began a focused study of watch movements, materials, and design principles, which eventually led him to leave his corporate role to pursue watchmaking full-time.
In 2013, Narula established Ajwain Watches with the intent of creating timepieces that emphasize heritage, mechanical integrity, and storytelling. Under his leadership, the brand has become a notable participant in the emerging Indian microbrand scene. Narula’s approach is characterized by a commitment to independent, small-batch production rather than mass-market scaling. He has expressed a preference for patience and refinement, aiming to build a brand with a distinctive presence comparable to historic European watch houses.
Narula is recognized for integrating Indian cultural and historical narratives into his designs. One of his most prominent releases, the Kakori 8 Down, features an enamel dial and is inspired by the 1925 Kakori revolutionary event. His work often involves specialized craftsmanship, such as handcrafted dial artistry and the use of unique materials like Banarasi saree fabric for watch boxes. By blending traditional motifs with modern mechanical movements, Vikram Narula has positioned himself as a key figure in the diversification of the Indian watch landscape.