Rubicon Watches first started out as Direct Watch Company in 1981. The business was established by Leon Woodward with the assistance of his two young sons, Craig and Gareth. They started selling on markets and events across the country including air shows, festivals and car shows. Weekly markets were the backbone of the business where they traded at Stockport, Leek, Buxton, Skipton and the famous cattle market of Bakewell. Watches and clocks could be found at discounted prices and Leon would always be happy to offer a bargain.