Behind the Build: How We Craft Affordable Luxury

Behind the Masterpieces: How Monterey Watch Co. Crafts Affordable Luxury

At Monterey Watch Co., we believe luxury doesn’t have to come with a luxury price tag. Each Monty tells a story of thoughtful design, global sourcing, and expert craftsmanship—all while remaining accessible. Our approach is rooted in transparency—we’re proud to share every step of how we create affordable masterpieces.

Step 1: Sourcing Quality Components Globally- Asia, Europe and North America

Our journey starts with sourcing. Did you know that 90% of all watch companies manufacture their parts in Asia? With the exception of the big Swiss firms, they do. While we take a global approach, we primarily work with trusted manufacturers in Asia, a region renowned for precision watchmaking and cost-effective production. Countries like Japan, China, and Singapore offer some of the best value in components such as cases, dials, and hands, without compromising on quality.But of course we also use Swiss Sellita and (soon) German Ronda  movements for our higher-end pieces. 

We also use local vendors in the USA for accessories, straps, hats and gear. 

Step 2: Partnering with the Best Factories

Factories are not a one-size-fits-all. Just like anything else, there are great, good and poor factories for fabricating dials, cases and hands. We have worked hard - along with a lot of trial and error - to find  the best fabrication firms. We carefully vet each factory we work with, focusing on their reputation for consistency and craftsmanship. Only those who meet our high standards for quality and reliability become part of the Monterey supply chain. By sharing our process openly, we invite customers to see exactly where our components come from and why we trust these factories to deliver exceptional results.

Step 3: Putting the Pieces in Place

At Monterey Watch Co., design is more than aesthetics—it’s an homage to tradition. We deliberately draw inspiration from history’s most iconic sport watch designs, blending timeless elements with modern touches. Once we’ve sourced the best components, our team ensures that cases, dials, hands, and bracelets come together to create a cohesive, enduring style. The result is a Monty that feels familiar yet fresh, honoring the legacy of classic watches. 

Step 4: Quality Assembly

After sourcing and designing, all components come together for final assembly in the shop. Our team oversees the final assembly process with precision, ensuring every watch meets the exacting standards Monterey Watch Co. is known for.

There are models we completely outsource for assembly as well - as they require a specific type of expertise or machine tools we don't have in place. Those models are the Kitty Hawk (a mechanical wind movement) the Slipstream (chronograph) and the the Route 12 (it's a fully custom build and we wanted an elite vendor to handle the domed sapphire.)

From start to finish, we are transparent about our processes, showing how your watch is built and why it stands out as a masterpiece of affordability and quality.

Why We Embrace Transparency

 We believe in earning trust through openness. From the factories we partner with to the components we choose, we want you to see exactly how a Monty comes to life. By sharing our process, we demystify the world of watchmaking and show that luxury doesn’t have to hide behind a high price tag.

Affordable Luxury, Crafted with Care

Monterey Watch Co. thrives on the idea that great design and quality craftsmanship should be accessible to all. Every Monty represents the culmination of global collaboration, skilled assembly, and our unwavering commitment to value and transparency.

Explore the collection today and see why Monterey Watch Co. is redefining affordable luxury, with a completely transparent process.