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The Insider Picks team writes about stuff we think you'll like. Business Insider has affiliate partnerships, so we get a share of the revenue from your purchase. Filippo Loreti is a Kickstarter-alumn that has set multiple world records for its crowdfunding. The company makes luxury watches that would normally sell for $1,000+ and offers them at an accessible price (from $219) by operating direct-to-consumer. Filippo Loreti takes design inspiration from three of Italy's iconic cities: Venice, Rome, and Milan. The women on our team tested the $249 Rome collection , defined by its Piazza del Campidoglio-inspired watchface, and loved the price, elegance, versatility, and thoughtful design. Luxury watches often come with the sort of price tag that prohibits most of us from owning one — an inaccessibility that has, in the past, been a central part of what made something luxurious a luxury. But thanks to new companies approaching the industry with more robust business models, things are changing, and luxury is becoming increasingly affordable. Now, if you find the right online company, you can own a watch that should theoretically cost 10 to 40 times what it takes to produce for much less. And if you're looking for that, you should know about Filippo Loreti . Filippo Loreti is a watch company that was founded by 20-something Lithuanian brothers Danielius and Matas Jakutis in 2015. Aside from its watches, it's best-known for its record-breaking 2015 Kickstarter in which the company outstripped its $20,000 goal by raising close to a million dollars in a month's time. The company's mission was and is simple: make $1,000+ luxury watches affordable and relatively accessible. In short, the Jakutis brothers wanted to democratize the luxury timepiece industry. By creating the company online and reducing how many external pieces they have to include (middlemen and retailers) the company is able to keep its costs low and pass those savings on to its customers. As a result, you pay from $219 for a minimalist watch to $609 for an artisanal automatic, all well under what luxury watches typically go for. Filippo Loreti 's 2015 Kickstarter campaign made it the most crowdfunded watch company in history, and, in 2016, the company broke its own record by raising over 5.5 million in 30 days from more than 18,000 backers. In total, the company has launched three record-breaking crowdfunding campaigns, raised more than $10,000,000 tot and is one of Kickstarter's 20 most successful initiatives across all categories. Aside from affordable luxury, Filippo Loreti likely draws customers for its ongoing spirit of crowdsourcing. The company maintains the "old ways" that set great watches apart from the rest, but its watches are co-developed with the brand's community — resulting in a luxury watch that still feels aspirational, but with the sort of thoughtful design that brings it decisively into the 'now'. Initially, the company's messaging — like most watch brands — was catered towards men. However, one facet of the elegance and elastic utilitarianism of watches is that they aren't necessarily gendered. While Filippo Loreti's site offers two sections — men's watches and women's watches — the differences are minimal, and the prices identical. Anyone of any gender could comfortably wear the designs. The watches are inspired by three iconic Italian cities — Venice, Rome, and Milan — as well as, less overtly, the long history of Italian luxury and finesse in general — emulating the same meticulous and vocational craftsmanship of industry landmarks like Ferrari, Fendi, Versace, Prada, Armani, and Dolce & Gabbana. For the last few weeks, the women on our team have been wearing watches from the $249 Rome collection to see how they stack up. As a whole, the line is minimalist, versatile, and elegant. Of the four options, the major distinctions are in color of leather and metal: Matte Black , Rose Gold , Gold , or Silver . Filippo Loreti 's interpretation of Rome takes its main inspiration from the famous Piazza del Campidoglio, a "masterwork of urban planning" with a mesmerizing, elliptical design by Michelangelo as its centerpiece. The series' dials are executed in a reminiscent style, using a "guilloche" pattern most notably used by high-end watchmakers. The collection falls in line with the iconic Italian architectural monuments best defined by their sloping lines and carefully crafted details. At the back of the watch face, you'll find a 3D embossed recreation of the Piazza del Campidoglio — an unusually beautiful addition that adds artisan value without interfering with its simplicity. You can swap out leather bands if you value versatility, and you can shop for an automatic ($585 - $609) or quartz ($249) form the series. Though, in a rare distinction for the brand, the Rome automatic watches are only found in the men's section. Financially, it makes sense to get a luxury watch here rather than pay a 4,000% markup — at least until that markup is justified by the sort of iconic name that warrants a lopsided price. Plus, the company offers free shipping worldwide, 90-day returns, and a 10-year international warranty. But, all in all, the watches are really nice — even regardless of price point. Part of the draw to Italian staples like Fendi, Ferrari, and Versace is the knowledge that these items were, in some way, costly either in price, effort, or ingenuity to produce. Filippo Loreti watches are affordable, but they still feel luxurious and aspirational in the sense that they feel distinctly thoughtful and labored-over. The Rome collection is simple enough to be timeless and versatile, but still ultimately feels customized. Connie Chen, Insider Picks reporter:
I've always had a strong preference for gold or light-colored watches, but Filippo Loreti's Rome Matte Black watch might be the first to make me jump ship. Though it's all black, the various textures — the geometric etchings surrounded by a smooth ring of marble, the soft yet sturdy leather — play against each other so the watch is still visually interesting. The reverse engraving is beautifully detailed, and even though no one else can see it, it's a reminder of the brand's elegance, sophistication, and craftsmanship. Mara Leighton, Insider Picks reporter:
I've gotten to check out a lot of watches through my time at Insider Picks, and Filippo Loreti is one of my favorites. The quality of the materials and the considered but understated design make them look and feel luxurious without being over the top. The matte black is sleek and the proportions spot on — not so thin that it appears purely ornamental or the watch face unnaturally large like many women's watches, but also not bulky enough to appear overtly masculine. The contrasting texture and intricate pattering are interesting to look at, and I love the personalization of the 3D embossed Piazza on the back. My favorite aspect, though — aside from price — is that I always think of Michelangelo's geometric centerpiece when I look down at my wrist. It's an oddly nice source for a recurring mix of both humility and inspiration — and I like knowing my watch has a bit more of "deep dive" story to it.

This Kickstarter sensation is making luxury women's watches for less than $250 — here's what we thought

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Filippo Loreto
Filippo Loreti is Kickstarter's most funded watch brand ever, and one of the platform's 20 most successful initiatives to date across all categories. Every watch Filippo Loreti makes is purchased online and shipped directly to the customer, a direct sales model that cuts out middlemen and greatly reduces overall costs. What strikes me most about the trio of Filippo Loreti watches in my collection is the fact that, although ostensibly similar, each piece has a look and feel all of its own. At well under $300, these watches are more than worth their price. To quote vaunted 19th Century French novelist Victor Hugo, "There is nothing as powerful as an idea whose time has come." And though today I'm writing primarily about the upstart luxury wristwatch brand Filippo Loreti, it's not in reference to that watchmaker that I invoke this famed quote. (Wristwatches have been commonplace for more than a century, after all, and are hardly a novel concept.) In this case, the "idea" in question is the use of online crowdfunding to help launch and scale a product or service. And even more specifically, I'm referring to Kickstarter, the luminary of the slate of new public-benefit corporations that help raise capital for ventures that would likely never have lifted off via traditional business growth models. For if anyone has ever made good use of Kickstarter, it's Lithuanian-born brothers Danielius and Matas Jakutis, who were in their mid-20s when they launched their first Kickstarter campaign back in 2015. Their funding goal for their fledgling watch brand Filippo Loreti was $20,000. Within a single month, they raised almost a million dollars. Then, the next year, as the second line of Filippo Loreti watches was unveiled, the company commenced another round of online fundraising. This time, they raided more than five million dollars, again in less than a month. These wildly successful crowdfunding sessions would mark Filippo Loreti as Kickstarter's most funded watch brand ever, and as one of the platform's 20 most successful initiatives to date across all categories. Danielius and Matas Jakutis were in their mid-20s when they launched their first Kickstarter campaign back in 2015. Filippo Loreti
For the consumer, what this crowdfunding success would ultimately mean is the ability to buy watches for which other brands might charge $1,000 or more between $225 and $315 in most cases. Even their priciest watches currently sells for $609, a bargain in the luxury timepiece category. With quick cash in the coffers, Filippo Loreti could devote less time (and expense, ironically) to raising funds or to establishing partnerships and marketing materials, and could instead get down to the production of chronometers. Unlike other luxury watch brands, the pieces the company makes won't be seen in jewelry store display cases or in the pages of catalog. Every watch Filippo Loreti makes is purchased online and shipped directly to the customer, a direct sales model that cuts out middlemen and greatly reduces overall costs. In fact, according to Filippo Loreti's own website, the markup costs associated with wholesalers, retailers, advertising, and other expenses associated with traditional luxury watch sales result in a customer paying as much as a 4,000% increase in sale price over production costs. With that figure in mind, you can appreciate how a wristwatch can sell for just a few hundred dollars yet can still be called a luxury item. Every watch Filippo Loreti makes is purchased online and shipped directly to the customer, a direct sales model that cuts out middlemen and greatly reduces overall costs. Filippo Loreti
I own and wear three Filippo Loreti watches, so you can consider me something of a lightweight collector, but I'll posit that I'm quite familiar with the brand. What strikes me most about the trio of Filippo Loreti watches in my collection is the fact that, although ostensibly similar, each piece has a look and feel all of its own. My Filippo Loreti watches include the Venice Moonphase Silver , the Venice Moonphase Rose Gold Blue , and the Venice Moonphase Black Gold . Each has a case measuring 40 mm across and nine mm thick, each features a single dial on the right side of the body, and each has a band made of fine Italian leather. On each face you will find three small subdials that track the date, day of the week, and month, and a richly illustrated moonphase set behind a half-moon-shaped cutout. There is an hour hand and a minute hand, though no second hand. The bands are fastened with a simple metal buckle. Even the backs of Filippo Loreti's watches show incredible attention to detail. Filippo Loreti
As noted, for all their similarity, these three watches look strikingly different and work with different outfits for different occasions. I could wear the Moonphase Silver with faded jeans and a T-shirt, while the Moonphase Blue Gold would look just fine sneaking out beneath a French cuff shot forth from a tuxedo jacket. The Black Gold watch would look at home accentuating a business suit or resting on the bar at an upscale, well, bar. While I have not had any of my Filippo Loreti watches long enough to see how they last over the years (and neither has anyone else; this brand is brand new in the scheme of things), I can tell you this:
So far, at well under $300, these watches are more than worth their price.

How a pair of 20-something brothers from Eastern Europe is shaking up the luxury watch scene

You have successfully emailed the post. The most crowdfunded watch company in history just came out with new watches — all under $300
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Filippo Loreti
There are literally hundreds of watch companies on the market that create extremely stylish timepieces. While legacy brands have already established a name and following for themselves, startup brands must be unique to truly set themselves apart — and Filippo Loreti has done just that. Last year, we introduced our readers to the startup as the most crowdfunded watch company ever , and their success has only grown. Founded in 2015 by Danielius and Matas Jakutis, Filippo Loreti looked to change the watch industry by selling luxury watches at affordable prices. They're able to do this eliminating middlemen and retailers that mark up prices exponentially. A watch that would typically go for $1,000 from other brands, Filippo Loreti sells for a fraction of the cost, with many styles priced under $250. The brand draws inspiration from three iconic Italian cities  — Venice, Rome, and Milan — and uses premium craftsmanship in an array of elegant designs to appeal to all kinds of watch lovers. Now, Filippo Loreti is back with the newly updated Venice Moonphase Collection and the quality is even better than before. Priced at $239, the watch is available in six colorways, making it not only an amazing deal, but a great way to add variety to your watch collection. The design isn't too far off from the original Venice watch , but there are a few key difference that collectively make it more elegant. The 40mm case is sleeker, the hour markers are not as large, and there's no second hand. Features like the subdials, which display the month, day, and date, along with a dial that shows the phase of the moon, are all carried over from the original design. Similar to previous versions, the reverse side of the case features an engraved Basilica di San Marco image, this time in more pronounced detail. Filippo Loreti
Realistically, not everyone has thousands of dollars to shell out for a single watch. High retail prices usually force people to sacrifice quality for style and value, but that doesn't have to be the case anymore. If you're looking for a high-end luxury watch for under $250, the new Filippo Loreti Venice Moonphase watch is for you. Filippo Loreti
I first tried Filippo Loreti watches back in August 2017 and was thoroughly impressed with the quality — so much so that I've worn one of their watches almost every day since then. When I first heard about the all-new Venice Moonphase collection, I was expecting the same premium quality, but was pleasantly surprised with an even better made watch. The first thing that stood out to me was the rich textured Italian leather strap. I was very happy with the smooth leather straps found on earlier models, but the tumbled leather used here feels a lot more luxurious. I also really enjoy the updated sleek design of the case. Initially, I thought the removal of the second hand was odd, but knowing the time down to the second isn't that important. It gives the display a clean and simple look that I've come to appreciate. I've tested a lot of watches in this price range and none of them match up to Filippo Loreti. If you're looking for a classy watch that you can wear on a daily basis, the Venice Moonphase is a great choice. Filippo Loreti
I tried the Venice Moonphase Blue Gold. I’ve always liked moonphase watches, but I never had a chance to actually wear one before. While the moonphase feature obviously isn’t as applicable as the date or day of the week, I still loved having it on the watch. It adds a nice bit of character and timelessness. Speaking of the moonphase, that, and the other complications — month, date, and day — are perfectly sized, laid out well, and easy to read. Even with four subdials, the term that kept coming to mind was “minimal.”
In terms of style, what I loved about the watch was that it had a unique look without being tacky or overdone. The blue bezel makes the watch stand out, and even though I was a little skeptical at first, I found that the watch dressed both up and down well. I can wear it with a sweater or shirt to work, or with a suit to a wedding. Filippo Loreti
I have never been much of a fan of wearing watches. My wrist is small and watches with big faces often look to clunky, while smaller faces tend to look too feminine. This was true until I saw the Filippo Loreti watch filling the gap between the two. It is elegant, with a blue face and quality blue leather band all accented with gold hardware details. It’s also the perfect size. The best part of the aesthetic is the fact that it is not overdone. It does not feature diamonds or patent leather where the watch prescribes the situation in which you can wear it. In fact, the simplicity of the watch itself makes it perfect for everyday use at work or home, while the gold punch allows you to "wear it up" with a full suit like I did to a dinner party.

The most crowdfunded watch company in history just came out with new watches — all under $300

The 16 best watches under $500 to give as gifts this holiday season
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Filippo Loreti
A nice watch can greatly improve any man's style, which is why it's the perfect gift for any guy on your holiday shopping list. Whether he's an avid watch collector, or just starting out, the right timepiece is a gift that's both stylish and practical. Startups like Filippo Loreti , MVMT , and Original Grain , and industry staples like Timex , Seiko, and Tissot all have watches he'll love. To help you get your shopping done, we rounded up our favorite watches. From classy analogs to sporty digital watches, you'll find it here. Filippo Loreti
Inspired by the city of Rome, the Filippo Loreti Rome Gold is a great gift for guys with a minimalist style. The watch features a premium brown leather band, gold case, and  white dial with gold hands and hour markers. There are no sub-dials getting in the way of telling the time. MVMT
MVMT's Classic Black Tan is a watch that's both sleek and sporty. It features a blacked out dial, with exceptions for the second hand and MVMT branding, and a tan leather band. If you're looking for a nice casual watch to gift, this is a good place to start. Original Grain
Using a combination of stainless steel and natural wood, Original Grain makes one of the most unique watches you can gift. The Burlwood Silver features a brushed silver stainless steel, exotic burl wood from fir and cedar trees, and a dark grey dial. If you're shopping for a guy with a lot of watches, this is an option he probably doesn't have yet. Timex
Inspired by the company's origins in Waterbury, Connecticut dating back to 1854, the Waterbury Traditional Chronograph has a timeless design that's fit for any occasion. The silver case and bracelet is accented by a dark grey dial, while white hour markers and hands add some contrast. If you want to get him a watch he can wear every day, here it is. Amazon
Daniel Wellington is another great option for fans of minimalism. In a classic design, the Sheffield  has a white dial, silver accents, and  simple black leather strap. If he's one for simplicity, it doesn't get much better than this. Filippo Loreti
The Filippo Loreti Venice Moonphase's  colors give it a classy, yet bold look. The watch features a blue and gold case, a blue dial with gold accents, and an Italian leather blue strap. With four clean sub-dials the watch is useful without being too intricate. Timex
What makes the Timex Weekender Stripe such a great watch is its simplicity and affordability. It features a silver case, white dial, and black hour markers, with easy-to-remove nylon straps so you can change its style. Priced at under $40, this would be a great stocking stuffer or Secret Santa gift. Use the promo code "REINDEER20" to save 20% at checkout. Jomashop
Tissot is known for its Swiss-made luxury watches and the Le Locke Powermatic 80 is a great example of that craftsmanship. The watch features a silver stainless steel case and bracelet, black dial, and Roman numerals on the hour markers. It's automatic, so he'll never need to put a battery in it. Jomashop
The Invicta Grand Diver makes a bold statement with its gold case and bracelet, bright blue bezel and dial. If he loves the ocean, this watch is ideal. It is waterproof up to 1,000 feet and uses an automatic movement with a 38-hour power reserve. Jomashop
Movado's Museum  has a black and silver color combination, giving it a look that's minimalistic and elegant. The only marking on the dial is Movado's signature dot at 12 o'clock. If he typically goes for a clean and simple look, this watch will surely impress him. Jomashop
The Seiko Diver's Automatic features a silver bracelet and case that's contrasted by a two-tone red and blue bezel and blue dial. The dial uses large white hour markers, thick hands, and a day/date display at 3 o'clock. This classic diver's watch is a great addition to any guy's watch collection. MVMT
If you're looking for amazing style and value all in one watch, the MVMT 40 Series a great choice. It features a rose gold case and bracelet with a black dial. Whether he's dressing formally or casual, the 40 Series  has the versatility to stand out in both settings. Original Grain
Finding a watch for beer lovers might seem like an impossible task, but here it is. The Original Grain Alterra Brewmaster Chrono uses reclaimed wood from German oak beer barrels and brushed silver stainless steel. Handmade, this watch is much more than a novelty gift for fans of cold brews. Amazon
An all-gold watch can be boring; but when a gold case is accented by a bold green face like on the Nixon Time Teller, it's a different story. Amazon
This Armitron Sport watch is the perfect blend between analog and digital because it incorporates both displays. The watch features a navy blue resin case and strap, silver fixed bezel, and black dial. If he's more of an outdoors adventurer than a formal businessman, this is the way to go. Jomashop
Made by Casio, G-Shock is one of the most popular digital watches you can buy. The  G7900A-4  has everything he could possibly need in a watch. The dial features several functions, including hours, minutes, seconds, calendar, tide and moon data, world time with 29 time zones, five alarms, countdown timer, stopwatch, 12/24 hour formats, and a backlight. If functionality and durability is important to him, a G-Shock is the perfect gift. If you want to see more from Insider Picks, we're collecting emails for an upcoming newsletter. You'll be the first to hear about the stuff we cover. Click here to sign up . Disclosure: This post is brought to you by Business Insider's Insider Picks team. We aim to highlight products and services you might find interesting, and if you buy them, we get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our commerce partners. We frequently receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising sales team. We welcome your feedback.Have something you think we should know about? Email us at insiderpicks@businessinsider.com. Read the original article on Insider Picks . Copyright 2017. Follow Insider Picks on Twitter . More from Insider Picks:

The 16 best watches under $500 to give as gifts this holiday season

Crowdfunding

Filippo Loreti designs and makes watches for men and women inspired by the culture and history of Italian Renaissance. The watches are made from a composite stainless steel polymer.

Name	Work History	Title	Status
Danielius Jakutis		Founder, Chief Product Officer	Current
Matas Jakutis		Founder	Current

Name	Danielius Jakutis	Matas Jakutis
Work History
Title	Founder, Chief Product Officer	Founder
Status	Current	Current

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