From fighter jets to sweet-shop clocks: The rise of India’s watch microbrands
Ajwain Watches, an Indian microbrand, collaborated with the Indian Air Force to design a commemorative titanium watch. The timepiece, featuring unique jet-inspired design elements, was created as a formal gift for international counterparts.
Why it matters
It highlights the growing sophistication and recognition of Indian independent watchmaking brands on a national institutional level.
In November 2025, Vikram Narula, founder of Ajwain Watches, received a call from the Indian Air Force about developing a watch. The Air Force had already prepared a preliminary design and approached other Indian watch companies , but were not impressed with their designs. Vikram suggested changes and asked to meet Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh before the project was finalised.
On December 1, he was given a 10-minute appointment in Delhi, and what followed, was a 45 minute conversation.
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