In the world of Australian horology, Melbourne Watch Co. is a name synonymous with tradition, craftsmanship, and timeless style. Established as one of the country’s most enduring watch brands, its legacy is deeply rooted in creating timepieces that resonate with history and the modern world.
However, this balance is challenging to maintain, and the brand’s journey has recently taken a pivotal turn. In June 2022, Matthew Corbo and his family acquired the company, marking the start of a new chapter while respecting the heritage that Melbourne Watch Co. stands for.
“We’re stewards of a legacy,” Matthew says, capturing his approach to the brand’s evolution. The decision to take over Melbourne Watch Co. was as much about honouring its past as it was about ensuring its future.
For Matthew, maintaining the brand’s ethos while injecting his vision required a delicate balance built on trust, innovation, and a deep understanding of what gives a watch meaning.
WHAT GIVES A WATCH MEANING?
To Matthew, a watch is far more than a tool for telling time. “A watch is an extension of the person wearing it,” he muses. “It’s an expression of personality, a piece of art that conveys something unique about who you are.” This philosophy is evident in Melbourne Watch Co.’s designs, which blend technical precision with aesthetic individuality.
What defines a “good watch”? According to Matthew, it’s a deeply subjective question. “A good watch resonates with its wearer,” he explains. “It’s like art—different people are drawn to different things.”
This perspective drives Melbourne Watch Co.’s design ethos, where classic elegance meets bold interpretation. From timeless models to contemporary innovations, the brand crafts watches that appeal to diverse tastes without losing its signature style.
STEERING MELBOURNE WATCH CO. FORWARD
Acquiring Melbourne Watch Co. was a natural step for Matthew, whose entrepreneurial spirit found its perfect outlet in the watch industry. “I’ve always wanted to work for myself,” he says. “But I never imagined I’d end up running a watch company.” Initially intimidated by the industry’s giants, like Rolex and TAG Heuer, Matthew discovered that watch collectors are constantly seeking something unique. This means that independent brands have an interesting opportunity. However, that opportunity comes with the specific challenge of balancing the company’s history with forward-thinking innovation.
Because of this, Matthew’s approach was measured. “We didn’t announce the change in ownership at first,” he reveals. “We wanted to prove ourselves before advertising that the company was under new management.” This thoughtful strategy paid off, retaining long-time customers and gaining new admirers.
The brand’s flagship model, the Portsea Classic, exemplifies this balance. With its ceramic dial, triple calendar complication, and meticulous craftsmanship, it embodies the heritage and innovation Melbourne Watch Co. stands for. “It’s one of our most popular models,” Matthew shares. “And it’s a testament to what makes Melbourne Watch Co. unique.”
INNOVATION ROOTED IN HERITAGE
Matthew keenly understands the need to honour Melbourne Watch Co.’s roots while embracing innovation. “While we want to preserve the company’s heritage, we also recognise the need to push boundaries,” he asserts.
This dual focus is evident in his exploration of new materials and designs. Whether experimenting with unconventional dial materials, like shells or refining classic models with modern updates, Matthew aims to strike a perfect balance between tradition and the contemporary world.
This ethos extends to the brand’s movements. “We only use tried-and-tested movements from reputable manufacturers,” Matthew emphasises. Collaborations with suppliers like Miyota, ETA, and Ronda ensure reliability and precision, while research explores new possibilities. “We’re always looking for ways to innovate without compromising quality,” he adds.
MELBOURNE: A HOROLOGICAL HUB
Melbourne itself plays a pivotal role in the story of Melbourne Watch Co. The city is fast becoming a hub for watch enthusiasts, with a growing community of collectors and independent brands. “There’s a real sense of camaraderie here,” Matthew notes. “We’re not just competitors; we’re collaborators, learning from and supporting each other.”
However, challenges remain. The lack of local watchmaking schools significantly hinders the industry’s growth. “Right now, apprentices have to go to Sydney for training,” Matthew laments. Establishing a watchmaking institution in Melbourne could nurture a new generation of artisans, ensuring the city’s position as a horological hub.
THE WRISTWATCH CHECK CONNECTION
For Matthew, the Wristwatch Check event underscores the heartbeat of the watch industry: community and passion. “What makes Wristwatch Check so important is how it brings people together,” he reflects. “Collectors, enthusiasts, and creators—it’s a celebration of the stories behind the watches and the people who wear them.”
Events like Wristwatch Check are a rare platform for dialogue between brands and the wider community, fostering connections as valuable as the timepieces. Matthew appreciates how such gatherings spotlight independent brands like Melbourne Watch Co., which often thrive on the relationships they build with their clientele. “These events remind us of the purpose behind our craft and connect us to the broader horological world,” he says.
Melbourne is emerging as a hub of independent watchmakers, and Wristwatch Check amplifies this momentum, positioning Australian brands on a global stage. It’s not just an industry gathering; it’s a testament to the enduring allure of timepieces and the passion they inspire.
LIVING THE TRUE MEANING OF SUCCESS
For Matthew, success is no longer about financial milestones. “Ten years ago, I thought success meant being a billionaire,” he admits. “Now, it’s about waking up and loving what I do.” This shift in perspective fuels his passion for Melbourne Watch Co., where a commitment to quality, authenticity, and customer satisfaction guides every decision.
“We’re here for the long run,” Matthew says with quiet confidence. In an industry dominated by global giants, Melbourne Watch Co. stands out for its watches and unwavering dedication to tradition and innovation. As the brand’s new chapter unfolds, one thing is clear: Melbourne Watch Co. is more than a name—it’s a legacy in motion.
