New kid. Big ambitions. Real movements.
Norqain came out swinging with a clean modern aesthetic, solid specs, and — most surprisingly — access to real-deal Kenissi movements (the same ones
Tudor and Chanel use). In a market full of rebranded catalog cases and stock Sellitas, that’s saying something.
They're not trying to fake heritage. They're trying to earn relevance. And honestly? They’re off to a solid start.
Norqain was founded in 2018 in Nidau, Switzerland — right next to Biel — by Ben Küffer, the son of a former Breitling exec. And that DNA shows. The
brand has a sporty, independent, slightly rebellious streak, but it’s backed by serious industry connections.
The big coup? Partnering with Kenissi — the movement manufacturer partially owned by Rolex. That gave Norqain access to modern automatic
calibers with COSC certification, 70-hour power reserves, and rock-solid architecture.
It also gave them a credibility boost right out of the gate.
Norqain has carved out a niche in the luxury sports watch space — the kind of watches you can wear every day, beat up a little, and still admire
when you catch a wrist shot.
Key models include:
There’s also a nice bit of personalization — a plate on the side of the case you can engrave, making each piece feel a little more yours.
Because they’re actually building a brand — not just a logo on a case.
They invested in a movement partnership early. They’ve tightened their distribution. Their designs are sharp without feeling like knockoffs. And they’ve
got ambassadors from mountaineers to NHL players — but nothing feels forced.
They’re not trying to be Rolex. Or Tudor. Or anything but Norqain. And that self-awareness? Rare and refreshing.
Norqain continues to release updates across its core lines — including limited editions and some very nice dial variants (especially in the Freedom 60 and Neverest collections).
Most watches now run Kenissi calibers (like the NN20/1 and NN20/2), and some models feature additional complications — GMTs, chronos, and skeleton dials.
The brand is still young, but the pre-owned market is starting to warm up — especially for the Freedom 60 GMT and Neverest Glacier editions.
Look, I’m usually skeptical of new brands. But Norqain has done more in five years than most brands do in fifty.
They’ve got sharp design, legit movements, and they’re not pretending to have some WWII submarine connection. I’ve sold a few, and every time I’m
surprised by how well made they feel in the hand.
If you want a modern daily-wear Swiss watch that isn’t trying to coast on heritage, Norqain’s a real contender.
Delray Watch is always on the lookout for unique Norqain watches — especially Freedom 60 GMT and Neverest models.
If you have a Norqain watch you’re ready to sell or trade – reach out. We’re always buying.
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