Watchatlas

Arcanaut

Copenhagen, Denmark · Est. 2016

Founded by Anders Brandt, Simon Goldeman, James Thompson

Arcanaut is an independent watchmaker focused on high-concept mechanical watches with a strong narrative and design identity. The brand produces limited-edition pieces that blend traditional craft with contemporary aesthetics.

Founded
2016
Headquarters
Copenhagen, Denmark
Group
Independent
Price Segment
Mid
Status
Active

Key Collections

  • ARC-I (2018) — Arcanaut’s debut Swiss-made proof-of-concept collection, released in 2018 as a small sold-out series that established the brand’s signature Nordic design language and set the foundation for the ARC-II era of experimental Scandinavian-made components. Key references: ARC-I proof-of-concept series, ARC-I forged carbon variant, ARC-I grey variant.
  • ARC-II D'Arc Matter (2021) — Arcanaut’s ARC-II D'Arc Matter family is the Copenhagen independent’s breakthrough composite-dial series, pairing its angular ARC-II case with dials made from pulverized Scandinavian slate bonded into a proprietary material developed with James ‘Black Badger’ Thompson. The line bridges the sold-out 2021 limited edition and later Colours variants while showcasing local case machining, in-house regulation, and distinctive Scandinavian industrial design. Key references: ARC II — D'Arc Matter White, ARC II — D'Arc Matter Badger Blue, ARC II — D'Arc Matter Gamma Green, ARC II — D'Arc Matter Hornet Yellow.

Timeline

  • 2015 — Anders Brandt and Simon Goldeman meet at a bar in Copenhagen and conceive the idea for Arcanaut.
  • 2016 — Arcanaut is officially founded in Copenhagen, Denmark.
  • 2018 — ARC-I released — a Swiss-made proof-of-concept series that sells out almost immediately.
  • 2020 — James Thompson (Black Badger), renowned exotic materials expert, joins as part-owner and Chief of Materials Development.

Frequently Asked Questions about Arcanaut

Where are Arcanaut watches made?
Arcanaut watches use Swiss movements but are assembled in Copenhagen, Denmark, using mostly Scandinavian materials and components.
Who is Black Badger?
James Thompson, known as Black Badger, is Arcanaut's Chief of Materials Development and part-owner. He is an industry-renowned expert in exotic materials.
What makes Arcanaut unique?
Arcanaut combines Nordic design aesthetics with innovative materials. They are believed to be the only watch brand with a fully integrated, motionless square crown design.

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