Halios
- Founded
- 2009
- Based in
- Vancouver, Canada
- In our catalog
- 2 watches from $765 to $995
Halios is one of the most respected microbrands in the world, and one of the hardest to buy. Jason Lim designs every watch himself in Vancouver, produces them in small batches, and they usually sell out within minutes of going on sale. The watches look simple, but they get the small things right: proportions, bezel action, bracelets and color.
History
Jason Lim founded Halios in 2009 with the Holotype, a dive watch. He followed it with the Tropik, the Delfin, the Seaforth and the Fairwind, each refined over several generations. Halios has never had a big marketing budget. It grew through watch forums and word of mouth, and many of its customers are collectors who also own Rolex, Tudor and Omega.
Signature models
- Seaforth IV: A versatile dive watch with a sapphire bezel insert and a range of dial colors, Halios's most popular model.
- Universa II: A sporty everyday watch with a modern case and integrated bracelet feel.
- Fairwind: A 1960s-inspired diver with a vintage feel.
What it's known for
Halios watches are made in small numbers and sell out quickly, so buyers often sign up for notifications or buy pre-owned, sometimes above the original price.
Price and positioning
Halios watches cost from about $750 to $1,000. Lorier, Baltic and Monta are the other microbrands people mention in the same breath. If you can get a Halios, it's a great alternative to Swiss divers costing several times more.
Halios watches in our library
- Halios Seaforth IV ($765)
- Halios Universa II ($995)