Only in FoCo: Vortic Watch Company

By Visit Fort Collins on Jul. 18, 2024

The saying "they don't make them like they used to" doesn't apply to Vortic Watch Company. Founded by R.T. Custer and business partner Tyler Wolfe in 2013, Vortic Watch Company is dedicated to the highest level of craftsmanship in their work upcycling old American-made pocket watches. By creating the miniscule parts that convert the pocket watch into a wrist watch at their location in Downtown Fort Collins, Vortic Watch Company is creating 100% American-made watches. While their passion is evident through interviews and photos, the best way to learn about what Vortic is doing is to do a free, in-person tour at their headquarters. These tours are offered Monday-Thursday and are a great way to learn more about the watch-making industry and what it takes to make an American-made product. They also recently expanded their offerings by creating a new sub-brand, Colorado Watch Company, a smaller, modern watch with an American-assembled automatic movement.

We spoke with R.T. Custer, CEO of Vortic Watch Company, to learn more about Vortic Watch Company and why he loves Fort Collins.

What do you love about Fort Collins?

It's always sunny here. No matter how warm or cold, people are always outside enjoying the sunshine. I think for that reason people in general are very kind and happy. It's just a fun and wonderful place to spend time, raise a family, and run a business.

What are your top 3 favorite activities to do in Fort Collins?

Explore and discover new restaurants, especially downtown
Play golf at Fort Collins Country Club or Harmony Club
Wander around downtown with my friends and family

RT Working at Vortic Watch Company

What "can't miss" activity/restaurant/place would you tell a first-time visitor to go?

Jessup Farm. It's everything you want in a Friday afternoon. Coffee shop, brewery, restaurant, ice cream shop, and typically other activities and shops. It feels like a "locals only" hidden gem, but at the same time is very welcoming to everyone, especially families.

What makes Vortic Watch Company unique?

We manufacture watches in the United States and make most of the parts here in Fort Collins. Most of the things we do are typically done in Switzerland, so taking a tour of Vortic Watch Company is saving you the trip to Switzerland to see how watches are made.

hampden heritage watch

What is the story behind how Vortic Watch Company got its start?

We wanted to make a watch that was actually Made in the USA. After researching our options, we discovered the history and stories behind the Great American Watch Companies that made pocket watches in America 100 years ago. We decided to upcycle those old pocket watches, turn them into wristwatches, and now we preserve American history one watch at a time!

Vortic Watch Facility Build out

What do you want visitors to experience at Vortic Watch Company?

The joy and passion of our team. We love what we do and we cannot wait to share the watches and stories behind our work with you!
RT Custer giving tour at Vortic Watch Company