Inside the Indies.NYC
Where horology meets culture behind closed doors
I first heard murmurs of The Indies over the summer. James—yes, that James—mentioned it in passing and referenced a horology-themed rap performance earlier this year. That was my first clue that this wasn’t your average industry gathering.
By late August, a “save the date” landing page appeared. I filed it away. Then in September, I formally requested an invite, which was approved on September 26. However, it was too late to bring a guest—I was told the October 16th edition had already oversubscribed.
Invitation (approval) only
The Indies was scheduled during New York Watch Week, and like many things in the watch world, the details unfolded slowly. The venue, a private residence building in Hudson Yards, was only revealed ten days prior via email. Even then, there was a sense of mystique.
Upon arrival, I was directed into a utility stairwell. A curious entrance, but perfectly on-brand for something designed to feel purposefully off to the side.
I was among the first to arrive. Early guests gathered and made small talk in a lounge down the hall from the event space. One guest I recognized from the Chrono 24 x STAPLE event earlier that week. The others, a father-son duo from Florida, asked if I thought the building was truly residential. I replied that the doorman had greeted the person ahead of me with a cheerful “Welcome home!”
The vibe inside
Getting in wasn’t straightforward as my name was only partially on the list. But a quick Instagram DM scroll for proof did the trick.
Thankfully, I still had service in the sub-level.
The format was loosely structured: free-flow drinks, catered bites, and tables hosted by independent watchmakers—some familiar, others just emerging. The vibe felt personal, especially before the space filled up as more people arrived.
There was a last-minute change in exhibitors: Ondřej Berkus couldn’t attend, and 1776 Atelier stepped in. I made the rounds, stopping to chat and observe. Some attendees wore two hats, representing one brand in the open, and another quietly on the side. The duality wasn’t lost on me; this is a side of the industry that rewards insiders but thrives on authenticity.
The event was organized by a team of three, including founder Jon Cruys, whom I met briefly. The team’s presence wasn’t loud, but it didn’t need to be. As the space filled and conversations deepened, I glanced at the time. I knew I’d have to leave soon.
Timing is everything
I could only stay for a couple of hours. James had mentioned his performance wouldn’t be before 6:30 P.M., and I had to be downtown by 7:00 P.M.
Before leaving, I ran into Craig from Wrist Enthusiast. We last crossed paths at the Breitling party, and before that at Windup the previous year. He showed me his newest piece, a titanium model. By then, it was time to go, so I ducked into the hallway to try to find the right set of stairs and made my exit. (These buildings sometimes lock you out once you enter the stairwell.)
Outside, I noticed someone trailing just behind me through the doors. We hadn’t been introduced, but I recognized him from inside—he had been talking to Craig. It was Patrick. We’d planned to meet up during the week. Somehow, we crossed paths in perfect timing, no planning required.
Culture wrapped in steel
The Indies is more than a watch event. It’s a cultural gathering anchored by horology. It trades spectacle for intimacy and marketing for meaning. There’s no signage, no step-and-repeat, no hashtag campaign. Just a guest list. And a quiet insistence that you get it.
The standout, for me, was a young team from Switzerland. In an industry facing a dwindling pool of trained watchmakers, seeing the next generation represented—and celebrated—felt significant. And like any craft, it survives through culture, community, and connection.
Mark your calendars—if you can
You won’t find much about The Indies online—and that’s by design. But word travels, like a good rumor.
If you can get in, go. You’ll likely leave knowing more people than watches (and that might be the point).
The next Indies will be held in May, 2026, shortly after Watches and Wonders. Until then, the story continues. Not loudly, but precisely where it started: between the hands of those who still care.
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