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Kobold is one of those brands that watch guys talk about in hushed tones — the kind of hardcore, mission-ready tool watches that never went mainstream but
built a loyal following among explorers, special forces, and collectors who actually use their gear.
American soul. German and Swiss mechanics. And a whole lot of attitude.
Founded in 1998 by Michael Kobold, a German-born watch enthusiast who launched the brand while still in college, Kobold was built on a bold idea:
create rugged, expedition-ready mechanical watches, assembled in the U.S., with serious tool-watch specs and explorer street cred.
Kobold watches quickly caught the attention of real-world adventurers — including Sir Ranulph Fiennes, the world’s most decorated living explorer, who wore his Kobold
through some of the harshest conditions on Earth.
At one point, Kobold had watches assembled in Pittsburgh, cases made in Germany, and even trained local sherpas in Nepal to build watches under the Kobold Nepal banner.
It was never about scale. It was always about story — and survival.
Kobold watches are built like tanks, with real-life adventuring in mind. They’re not flashy. They’re functional.
Popular models include:
Expect stainless or titanium cases, thick sapphire crystals, ETA-based automatic movements, and bracelets/straps meant to take a beating.
The brand also has a history of hand-engraved limited editions, expedition commemorative models, and military collaborations — all of which add collector intrigue.
Because it was one of the first modern indies to say: We’re not here to play luxury. We’re here to play rough.
Kobold watches were worn on Everest, in combat zones, and during arctic crossings — not because of sponsorship deals, but because they worked.
Add to that the brand’s early push for U.S. assembly, unapologetically masculine designs, and a founder who had real storytelling chops, and you get a brand that earned
its cult status the hard way.
Kobold has had its ups and downs — with periods of silence, custom-order-only production, and limited availability. But on the pre-owned market, you can still find:
Most are powered by ETA 2824, 7750, or Soprod-based movements, and cases range from 41mm to 45mm depending on the model.
Kobold is a brand that I’ve always respected — even when they flew under the radar.
The Soarway I had in the shop years ago felt purpose-built. Thick case, solid bezel action, no nonsense. You could throw it in a duffel and take it on a
month-long trek and never worry about it once.
It’s the opposite of a desk diver. It’s a real diver. And for the right collector? That matters more than the logo on the dial.
Delray Watch is always on the lookout for unique Kobold watches — especially Soarway Diver, Phantom, and expedition editions.
If you have a Kobold watch you’re ready to sell or trade – reach out. We’re always buying.
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