Wolfgang Heinrich is the founder of the independent microbrand Heinrich Watches. A true German watch entrepreneur with a keen eye for design. Founded in 2020, his work focuses on 1970s vintage-inspired mechanical watches. His talent shined through with the beautiful dial design of the inaugural Taucher (meaning Diver in German).

The Taucher came in four color offerings of blue, green, red, and purple with that 1970s aesthetic, he nailed it perfectly. These watches tell the story so well it takes you there, the style, the music, and the culture. The Taucher introduced Wolfgang to the microbrand space with specs and finishing to rival some of the larger, well known German watch brands.

Distinctive characteristics of Heinrich watches include:

Angular 1970s-style cases
Colorful sunburst dials
Large crowns and dive bezels
Collector-focused designs

Credit - Heinrich

The unforgettable lion's head logo references the heraldic symbols of Baden-Württemberg, the German state where the brand is based.

Designs are created in Stuttgart while production involves watchmaking specialists in Pforzheim, a historic German watchmaking epicenter.

“I’ve always been fascinated by watches, not just as objects, but as a combination of design, engineering, and emotion.”

Wolfgang began his journey without any contacts, network, or supply chain. He had to navigate his way through the industry truly from the bottom, making friends and connections along the way. He wasn't quite completely alone though, because behind every great man is an even greater woman.

“From the very beginning, my wife has been an essential part of the journey. She supports me in digital marketing and at trade shows, helping to build and communicate the brand.”

What's next for Heinrich Watches?

“We are currently developing our first showroom in Stuttgart, a space designed to experience the watches in person, not just online. It is a demanding process, but one I am very much looking forward to bringing to life.”

“Last year also marked an important milestone. I was able to bring a master watchmaker on board in Pforzheim, Germany. Previously, I relied on external partners, so having this expertise in house allows for a much higher level of control across both assembly and service. With his background, including experience at Maurice Lacroix, it adds depth and consistency to the products.”

It was inevitable that a man like Wolfgang Heinrich would thrive in an industry where community and brands have a very blurred line between them. Heinrich is another enthusiast among other enthusiasts in a community that drives the brand. He would tell you he is just a regular guy, but it takes something special to work a full time day job and in your spare time start up one of the best microbrand watch companies that has come out of Germany.

Now you can find Wolfgang at microbrand watch events such as District Time that takes place in Washington DC each year. There to greet you with a huge smile. These events are a great opportunity to experience being around some of the most unique watches and incredible people.