Our Partners
At 1776 Atelier, we are proudly rooted in American independent watchmaking. Every effort we make is guided by one principle: to create exceptional timepieces through integrity, precision, and purpose. As a small atelier, we are deeply committed to bringing as much manufacturing, fine finishing, and high horology in-house as possible—reviving a legacy of craftsmanship here in the United States.
But excellence does not stop at any border. While we prioritize domestic development and strive to advance American capabilities, we also believe that quality must never be compromised. That means working with a small, highly selective group of global partners when their expertise reflects the same values we hold ourselves to. In some cases, sourcing globally is not only a choice—it is a necessity, and a privilege when it means collaborating with the finest in the world.
These partnerships are not about convenience. They are about conviction. Each one plays a role in our pursuit of the extraordinary, and each is chosen for their mastery, not their geography.
DK Precision
Located in Glashütte, Germany, DK Precision is a manufacturer and independent watchmaker with deep roots in the tradition of Saxon excellence. Glashütte is known worldwide as a cradle of fine German watchmaking, and DK Precision continues that legacy with a modern mastery of movement architecture and high-precision components.
Their expertise supports many of the most respected names in horology, including brands that are near household names among collectors. We selected DK Precision not simply for their capabilities, but because they share our belief that excellence is the sum of every detail. Their work supports some of the most demanding brands in the world, and we are proud to count ourselves among the independent makers who rely on their exceptional capabilities.
For 1776 Atelier, their components serve as a critical foundation for the high levels of finishing we achieve in house. Their precision work enhances our designs without ever replacing the artisanal craftsmanship that defines each of our timepieces. They are a true partner in our pursuit of mechanical beauty and enduring quality.
Hour Precision
Based in Ohio and led by Zach Smith, a trained watchmaker with a deep background in precision engineering, Hour Precision represents a rare fusion of horological insight and world-class manufacturing. As both a specialist machine shop and a passionate supporter of independent watchmaking, they bring capabilities that very few workshops globally, and none in North America, can offer at this level.
Hour Precision is the only facility in North America equipped with true watchmaking-grade capabilities on KERN CNC platforms. These machines are among the most precise in the world, capable of achieving tolerances within single-digit microns and delivering immaculate surface finishes. Originally developed for medical device and aerospace applications, KERN machines set the standard for what is possible in modern micromechanics. In the context of watchmaking, they allow for extraordinary control and dimensional exactness.
This partnership allows 1776 Atelier to push the boundaries of what American-made can mean. Hour Precision not only strengthens our pursuit of growing domestic production, but also enables us to realize technical results that match or exceed the standards set by the most respected names in global horology.
They are more than a manufacturing partner. They are a cornerstone of our ambition to bring fine watchmaking back to American soil with no compromises.