Story Highlight
– Indies.NYC launches “1% for the Next Generation” initiative.
– One percent of watch sales funds watchmaking education.
– Artisans choose beneficiary schools for proceeds allocation.
– Upcoming salon features 23 independent watchmakers.
– Admission to the event during New York Watch Week is free.
Full Story
A new initiative aimed at supporting the future of watchmaking is being launched by Indies.NYC, an organisation representing independent artisans. This programme, called “1% for the Next Generation,” encourages watchmakers to contribute a portion of their sales to the education of future craftsmen.
The official launch is scheduled for 15 October at the Indies.NYC salon, where one percent of the net sales from each watch sold will be allocated to a watchmaking school of the artisan’s choosing. There is no overarching committee or central fund overseeing this allocation; instead, each watchmaker has the autonomy to select an institution that holds personal significance, whether it is their alma mater, a local school, or another educational establishment they wish to support.
Among the participating educational institutions are schools from France, Finland, and Ireland, with plans to expand the network further.
Indies.NYC’s initiative complements its overall mission to champion independent watchmaking. Founded in 2024 by Belgian collector Jon Cruys, the platform is distinctive in its approach, focusing on the curation of independent watchmakers instead of relying on traditional exhibition spaces.
This upcoming salon in New York marks a significant expansion for the initiative, with an increase from 10 to 23 independent artisans showcasing their work. The event coincides with New York Watch Week, featuring a diverse range of artisans including Alex Voss, Arturak Maev, Atelier 1776, and many others.
Additionally, Indies.NYC adopts a voluntary sales commission of 5%, trusting artisans to contribute when a sale occurs, which fosters a spirit of cooperation rather than obligation. Jon Cruys emphasised the importance of independence within the watchmaking community, expressing that the current success in independent watchmaking should be reinvested into educating its future practitioners. He noted, “If we create value for an artisan-watchmaker, we trust them to recognize it. We would rather build that relationship on reciprocity than obligation.”
The salon is free to attend, welcoming both collectors and enthusiasts, with registration available through the organisation’s website. For further details, interested parties can visit http://www.indies.nyc.
