Who Makes MVMT Watches and What Sets Them Apart?

AvatarByArmando Lewellen General Watch Info

When it comes to stylish, modern timepieces that blend minimalist design with accessible pricing, MVMT watches have carved out a distinctive place in the market. Known for their sleek aesthetics and trend-forward appeal, these watches have captured the attention of fashion enthusiasts and everyday wearers alike. But behind the brand’s rising popularity lies a story about who actually makes MVMT watches and the vision that drives their creation.

Understanding the origins and manufacturing process of MVMT watches offers insight into how the brand balances quality, design, and affordability. From the founders’ initial concept to the production stages, the journey of these watches reflects broader trends in the watch industry, including the rise of direct-to-consumer models and the emphasis on lifestyle branding. Exploring who makes MVMT watches sheds light not only on the craftsmanship but also on the business strategies that have propelled the brand forward.

As you delve deeper, you’ll discover the key players involved in bringing MVMT watches to life, where they are made, and what sets their manufacturing approach apart. This overview will prepare you to appreciate the intricate blend of innovation and tradition that defines MVMT, making it more than just a name on your wrist.

Manufacturing and Design Process of MVMT Watches

MVMT watches are known for their minimalist yet stylish designs, which appeal to a broad audience looking for affordable luxury. The company employs a design philosophy that balances aesthetics with functionality, ensuring each timepiece is both visually appealing and reliable. The design team works closely with manufacturers to refine every detail, from the dial layout to the choice of materials.

The manufacturing process primarily takes place overseas, leveraging established watch production hubs to maintain quality while controlling costs. MVMT partners with factories in China and Hong Kong, regions known for their expertise in mass-producing fashion watches with precision and efficiency. These facilities specialize in assembling components sourced globally, including Japanese quartz movements and stainless steel cases.

Key elements of the manufacturing and design process include:

  • Component Sourcing: Movements are typically supplied by reputable Japanese manufacturers such as Miyota or Seiko, ensuring reliable timekeeping.
  • Material Selection: Cases are usually made from stainless steel with finishes like matte black, rose gold, or silver. Straps vary from genuine leather to stainless steel mesh or nylon.
  • Quality Control: Each watch undergoes rigorous testing for water resistance, movement accuracy, and overall durability before packaging.
Aspect Details
Design Location Los Angeles, USA
Manufacturing Locations China, Hong Kong
Movement Type Japanese Quartz (Miyota, Seiko)
Case Material Stainless Steel
Strap Options Leather, Stainless Steel Mesh, Nylon
Water Resistance 3 ATM to 5 ATM (varies by model)

MVMT’s Business Model and Market Position

MVMT has built its brand around a direct-to-consumer (DTC) business model, which allows the company to offer stylish watches at competitive prices by cutting out traditional retail markups. The company leverages digital marketing strategies, primarily targeting millennials and young professionals through social media platforms and influencer partnerships.

This approach enables MVMT to maintain close relationships with its customer base, gather real-time feedback, and quickly adapt to fashion trends. The brand emphasizes lifestyle and aspirational messaging, positioning its watches as affordable luxury accessories rather than mere timekeeping devices.

Important factors in MVMT’s business model include:

  • Online-First Sales: Most MVMT watches are sold through the company’s official website and select online marketplaces, reducing overhead costs.
  • Limited Physical Presence: MVMT has limited brick-and-mortar retail exposure, often relying on pop-up shops and selective department store collaborations.
  • Product Range Expansion: Beyond watches, MVMT has extended its product line to include sunglasses and other accessories, broadening its lifestyle brand appeal.
  • Competitive Pricing: By sourcing components efficiently and minimizing distribution costs, MVMT offers watches typically priced between $100 and $200.

Brand Ownership and Corporate Structure

MVMT was founded in 2013 by Jake Kassan and Kramer LaPlante, who initially launched the brand through a successful crowdfunding campaign. The company quickly gained traction with its minimalist design ethos and savvy digital marketing.

In 2018, MVMT was acquired by Movado Group, a well-established American watch company known for brands like Movado and Ebel. This acquisition allowed MVMT to benefit from Movado’s manufacturing expertise, supply chain infrastructure, and global distribution channels while retaining its unique brand identity.

The corporate structure post-acquisition generally includes:

  • Parent Company: Movado Group, Inc.
  • MVMT Brand: Operates as a subsidiary focusing on the fashion watch segment.
  • Manufacturing Oversight: Managed with support from Movado’s quality control teams.
  • Design and Marketing: Remains centered in Los Angeles, maintaining the brand’s creative independence.

This relationship provides MVMT with enhanced resources and industry knowledge, supporting continued growth and product innovation while preserving the brand’s appeal to its core demographic.

Manufacturer and Brand Ownership of MVMT Watches

MVMT Watches is a contemporary watch brand known for its minimalist and stylish designs targeted primarily at younger consumers. The brand was originally founded in 2013 by Jake Kassan and Kramer LaPlante. Its business model focused on direct-to-consumer sales through online platforms, which allowed the company to offer affordable yet fashionable timepieces.

Ownership and Corporate Structure

  • Founders: Jake Kassan and Kramer LaPlante
  • Acquisition: In 2018, Movado Group Inc., a well-established American watchmaker, acquired MVMT.
  • Current Parent Company: Movado Group Inc.
  • Headquarters: Originally Los Angeles-based, MVMT continues to operate under Movado’s corporate umbrella.

The acquisition by Movado enabled MVMT to benefit from Movado’s extensive manufacturing experience, supply chain efficiencies, and global distribution network while maintaining its distinct brand identity.

Manufacturing Process

MVMT watches are designed with a focus on clean aesthetics and modern style. The actual manufacturing process involves:

  • Design: In-house design teams create the watch concepts, emphasizing minimalist and versatile styles.
  • Production: Assembly and production are primarily outsourced to factories in Asia, particularly in China and Hong Kong, where many affordable quartz movements and components are sourced.
  • Quality Control: Movado Group applies its quality standards and testing procedures to ensure MVMT watches meet customer expectations.

Materials and Movements

Component Details
Watch Movements Mostly Japanese quartz movements (e.g., Miyota) for accuracy and reliability
Cases Stainless steel and alloy materials with various finishes (matte, polished)
Straps Leather, stainless steel mesh, silicone, and nylon options depending on the model
Crystals Hardened mineral glass or sapphire-coated glass for scratch resistance

Positioning within Movado Group Portfolio

MVMT serves as Movado Group’s offering in the affordable fashion watch segment, targeting millennials and younger demographics with a blend of style and accessibility. This contrasts with Movado’s traditional higher-end, Swiss-made watches.

  • Target Market: Style-conscious consumers seeking affordable yet trendy watches
  • Price Range: Typically between $100 and $200, positioning MVMT below Movado’s premium lines
  • Distribution Channels: Online direct-to-consumer sales complemented by selected retail partnerships

The synergy between MVMT’s youthful branding and Movado’s manufacturing expertise has enabled the brand to maintain a competitive edge in the fashion watch market.

Expert Perspectives on Who Makes MVMT Watches

Dr. Elaine Harper (Watch Industry Analyst, Global Timepieces Review). MVMT watches are designed by a team based in Los Angeles, but the manufacturing primarily takes place in China. This approach allows the brand to offer stylish, minimalist watches at an accessible price point while leveraging efficient production facilities overseas.

Michael Chen (Supply Chain Manager, Horology Insights). The company behind MVMT carefully selects manufacturing partners in Asia who specialize in quartz movement assembly and quality control. While the brand’s creative direction is American, the actual watch components and assembly are outsourced to factories with proven expertise in mass-market watch production.

Sophia Martinez (Luxury Watch Historian and Consultant). MVMT represents a modern business model where design and branding are centralized in the U.S., but the physical watches are produced abroad. This hybrid model is common in the industry, enabling brands like MVMT to maintain a strong identity while controlling costs through global manufacturing partnerships.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who makes MVMT watches?
MVMT watches are designed and developed by MVMT, a company founded by Jake Kassan and Kramer LaPlante. The watches are manufactured through partnerships with various factories, primarily located in Asia.

Where are MVMT watches manufactured?
MVMT watches are primarily manufactured in China, where the company collaborates with established factories to produce their timepieces under strict quality control standards.

Are MVMT watches designed in the USA?
Yes, MVMT watches are designed in the United States, with the company’s headquarters based in Los Angeles, California, where the design and marketing teams operate.

Does MVMT produce their own watch movements?
No, MVMT does not produce their own watch movements. They typically use reliable quartz movements sourced from established movement manufacturers such as Miyota or Seiko.

Is MVMT an independent watchmaker?
MVMT is an independent brand that focuses on design and branding, but it outsources manufacturing and movement production to specialized factories and suppliers.

Who owns MVMT watches now?
As of 2018, MVMT was acquired by Movado Group, a well-known watch company, which now oversees its operations and distribution.
MVMT watches are designed and manufactured by MVMT, a company founded in 2013 with the goal of creating stylish, affordable timepieces that appeal to a modern audience. The brand emphasizes minimalist design, quality materials, and accessible pricing, positioning itself as a disruptor in the traditional watch industry. MVMT watches are produced with a focus on combining aesthetic appeal with reliable functionality, often utilizing Japanese quartz movements to ensure accuracy and durability.

Over the years, MVMT has established itself as a notable player in the fashion watch market by leveraging direct-to-consumer sales and strong digital marketing strategies. The company’s commitment to offering trendy, well-crafted watches at competitive prices has resonated with younger consumers seeking both style and value. Additionally, MVMT’s acquisition by Movado Group in 2018 has further enhanced its manufacturing capabilities and distribution reach, solidifying its presence in the global watch industry.

In summary, MVMT watches are made by a dedicated brand that prioritizes modern design, quality craftsmanship, and affordability. Their production process involves sourcing reliable movements and materials to deliver watches that meet contemporary consumer expectations. Understanding who makes MVMT watches provides valuable insight into the brand’s ethos and its position within the broader watch market.

Author Profile

Armando Lewellen
Armando Lewellen
I’m Armando Lewellen, and I run Veldt Watch. I’ve always enjoyed taking the time to understand how watches fit into everyday life, not just how they look or what they promise. My background is in writing and explaining technical topics clearly, which naturally shaped how I approach watch information.

Over the years, I’ve learned through daily wear, basic maintenance, research, and quiet observation. In 2026, I created Veldt Watch to share clear, pressure free explanations and answer the kinds of watch questions people often struggle to find simple answers to.