Templum Tropolis: French Microbrand Brings Guilloché Bezels to Kickstarter at €375
Templum Takes Kickstarter by Storm with Premium Features at Budget Pricing
The microbrand watch space continues to evolve in 2026, and a new French contender is making waves on Kickstarter. Templum, a Paris-based startup founded by Alexandre Greze, has launched its inaugural Tropolis collection – a trio of automatic sports watches that punch remarkably above their weight class.
What sets these watches apart from the sea of microbrand offerings? It starts with the details: genuine guilloché bezels featuring a clous de Paris pattern, sandwich dial construction with Super-LumiNova, and an impressive 200 meters of water resistance – all at a preorder price of just €375 (approximately $400 USD) before VAT.
Design and Specifications
The Templum Tropolis comes in a compact 37mm stainless steel case with an 11.2mm thickness and 44mm lug-to-lug distance. While on the smaller side by modern standards, this vintage-inspired sizing has found renewed appreciation among enthusiasts seeking alternatives to oversized watches.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 37mm |
| Height | 11.2mm |
| Lug-to-Lug | 44mm |
| Water Resistance | 200m |
| Movement | Miyota 9015 Automatic |
| Crystal | AR Sapphire |
| Dial Options | Black, Blue, Dune (Off-White) |
| Price | €375 (before VAT) |
The sandwich dial design features cutout circular indices with luminous material underneath, providing excellent low-light visibility. Applied Arabic numerals at 12, 3, and 9 o'clock add visual interest, while the date window at 6 o'clock blends seamlessly into the design.
Movement Choice: The Proven Miyota 9015
Powering the Tropolis is the reliable Miyota 9015 automatic movement – a Japanese workhorse that's become a favorite among microbrand watchmakers. With 24 jewels, a 28,800vph (4Hz) beat rate, and 42 hours of power reserve, this caliber offers dependable performance at an accessible price point.
The Miyota 9015 was introduced in 2009 and has earned a reputation for reliability with an accuracy rating of -10/+30 seconds per day. While not COSC-certified, this movement provides excellent value for money and is easily serviceable worldwide.
French Assembly and Local Straps
Unlike many microbrands that source assembly from Asia, Templum assembles all watches in France and pairs them with French-made leather straps. This commitment to local production adds an authentic touch that resonates with buyers seeking European craftsmanship at accessible prices.
Each watch ships with both a leather strap (tan or grey options) and a black rubber strap, both featuring quick-release levers for easy swapping without tools.
Kickstarter Campaign Details
The Templum Tropolis is currently live on Kickstarter with early bird pricing starting at €375. Deliveries are scheduled for Q1 2026. The campaign has already attracted significant interest from the watch community, with several tiers offering additional strap bundles and color combinations.
For budget-conscious collectors seeking genuine craftsmanship and distinctive design, the Templum Tropolis represents one of the strongest value propositions to emerge from the Kickstarter platform in recent memory.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Miyota 9015 a good movement?
Yes, the Miyota 9015 is widely regarded as one of the best Japanese automatic movements in its price range. It offers reliable performance, a high beat rate for smooth seconds hand sweep, and easy serviceability. Many established microbrands including Baltic, Farer, and Vaer have used Miyota movements successfully.
How does Templum compare to other French microbrands?
Templum enters the market alongside established French microbrands like Baltic and Charlie Paris. While Baltic focuses on vintage-inspired designs at slightly higher price points, Templum distinguishes itself with guilloché bezels and sandwich dials – features typically found on watches costing significantly more.
Is 37mm too small for a men's watch?
The 37mm case size has seen a resurgence in popularity among watch enthusiasts. Many consider this the "sweet spot" for versatility, as it wears comfortably on wrists ranging from 6.5" to 7.5" and transitions easily between casual and dressy occasions.
Sources: Monochrome Watches