R.T. Custer, co-founder and chief executive of Vortic Watch Company, has experienced a profound personal and professional transformation following a stroke that paralyzed his left side in June 2025. At 34, Custer was at the height of an ambitious growth phase for his Colorado-based watchmaking business when the medical emergency abruptly halted his plans.
Founded in 2013 by Custer and former partner Tyler Wolfe during their time at Pennsylvania State University, Vortic Watch Company specializes in restoring antique American-made pocket watch movements and repurposing them into wristwatches using modern components. The company operates out of Fort Collins, Colorado, producing between 200 and 300 pieces annually, with prices ranging from approximately $4,000 to $15,000 depending on the rarity of the watch’s movement. Among its offerings is a limited 50-piece Military Edition series, featuring adaptations of World War II-era Hamilton pocket watches issued every Veterans Day, with $500 from each sale donated to a veterans’ watchmaker training program.
Prior to his stroke, Custer had been pursuing aggressive expansion, including plans to launch a line of automatic wristwatches under the Colorado Watch Company brand. His efforts included maintaining a 14-person staff and in-house manufacturing with nine computer numerical control (CNC) machines capable of precision cutting watch components. Since the stroke, Vortic has undergone significant downsizing, now operating with roughly half the staff in a 2,200-square-foot facility. The company has sold or is in the process of selling its CNC machines, opting to purchase parts from third-party suppliers, including a former machinist who now operates his own shop in Colorado.
Custer’s recovery has been closely supported by his wife, Lindsay Roselle, who stepped in as acting leader during his rehabilitation despite not having been involved in the company previously. Roselle holds an MBA and a background as a business strategist. The couple also benefited from a crowdfunding campaign that raised $97,000, aiding with personal and company-related expenses during the challenging period. Additionally, Vortic introduced a limited-edition watch using Swiss movements they had previously acquired; the entire run sold out quickly, reflecting continued market interest.
An infusion of investment further stabilized the business recently when an investor purchased Vortic’s assets. The new owner has chosen to remain behind the scenes, leaving day-to-day operations in Custer’s hands. Roselle continues to contribute on a part-time basis, focusing on marketing and operations.
Industry observers note Vortic’s unique niche in reviving historic American watchmaking. The company has overcome legal challenges—including a trademark dispute with the Swiss Hamilton brand owner that ruled in favor of Vortic—solidifying its position in the microbrand watch sector. Vortic’s approach, which highlights the craftsmanship and legacy behind each repurposed timepiece, has been praised for bringing renewed attention to the history of American horology.
Custer has resumed working full-time, attending trade shows and managing the business while adapting his routine to accommodate health considerations. He emphasizes a renewed perspective, balancing his role as an entrepreneur with priorities as a husband and father. “I want to get the most out of this life because God gave me an opportunity to have two lifetimes in the same body,” Custer said, reflecting on his ongoing recovery and future goals.