September proved that the watch world doesn’t slow down after summer. From microbrands refining their classics, to playful collaborations, to Swatch once again dominating the hype game, there was plenty to keep enthusiasts talking. Add in sustainability-driven design, affordable field watch roundups, and some bold Seiko releases, and you’ve got a month worth revisiting. Here’s a look back at the most notable watch releases of September 2025.

Baltic Refines a Cult Diver

Microbrand favorite Baltic returned with the Aquascaphe MK2, an update to its beloved dive watch. Subtle case adjustments and upgraded materials bring a touch more refinement while retaining the charm that made the original such a hit. For collectors who appreciate accessible, well-designed divers, this was one of September’s most exciting updates.

Seiko Presage Highlights

Seiko had a busy September with two notable Presage releases. First came the Japan Blue series, which celebrated traditional indigo dyeing through two new references featuring deep blue dials, textured patterns, and open-heart layouts. Later in September, Seiko expanded its Japanese Garden collection with three new models, offering fresh dial colors and the familiar open-heart design inspired by the tranquility of Zen gardens. Together, these releases underline Seiko’s continued focus on blending Japanese artistry with modern watchmaking.

Yema Expands Its Accessible Line

French brand Yema added four new watches under €1,000, continuing its push to deliver affordable, enthusiast-friendly designs. The lineup brings updated styling and versatility, showing why Yema remains a go-to choice for collectors seeking approachable but characterful timepieces.

Cocktail Time: Fears × Studio Underd0g

One of the most talked-about collabs of the month was the Fears × Studio Underd0g “Manhattan”, a cocktail-inspired watch that blended playful aesthetics with serious watchmaking detail. It’s the kind of collaboration that brings fun, freshness, and a story collectors can immediately connect with.

A Golden Twist on Sustainability

Sustainability remained a theme in September with Detrash’s Au.M.G., a dive watch built with eco-friendly principles and dressed in a bold golden finish. Combining environmental focus with eye-catching style, it showed how independent brands continue to push the boundaries of design and responsibility.

Bravo Golf Rebrands as Call Sign

September also saw a rebrand in the microbrand space. Bravo Golf became Call Sign, debuting with the Discovery 38mm. Despite the reduced dimensions, it retains the same legibility, aviation styling, and robust construction that made the 42 mm a favorite among fans.

Swatch Harvests the MoonSwatch Hype

Swatch kept the spotlight on its cult-favorite line with the MoonSwatch Harvest Moon, the latest in the Earthphase Moonshine Gold series. The new release added a warm, golden tone just in time for autumn, once again proving that few brands can match Swatch when it comes to playful hype-driven launches.

Timex Keeps the Momentum

Timex had another busy month in September, showing just how wide their range can be. On the accessible side, the new Waterbury Ace and Ace Chronograph brought classic pilot-watch styling at the $200 mark, while the Marlin Quartz 34mm added a vintage-inspired dress option with understated charm. The Timex × Todd Snyder collaboration leaned into mid-century revival aesthetics, proving the brand’s knack for playful design partnerships. Finally, Timex launched a new evolution in brand design with the Atelier Series Marine M1a.

In-House Highlights: Affordable Field Watch Roundup

September also brought one of our biggest roundups of the year: the Best Affordable Field Watches of 2025, created in collaboration with PynionTime. Featuring 20 picks under $1,000, it’s a guide designed to help collectors find rugged, versatile watches at approachable prices.

What’s Next

Looking ahead to October, there are already some big names on the horizon and a few microbrand projects we’re keeping a close eye on. Expect fresh collabs, more anniversary editions, and a continuation of the retro-inspired trends we’ve been seeing all year.

So, what was your favorite release of September?