Serica
- Founded
- 2019
- Based in
- Paris, France
- In our catalog
- 3 watches from $1,200 to $2,510
Serica makes quiet watches. The dials are matte and uncluttered, the cases are compact and the fonts look like they came from a 1950s instrument panel. Nothing is shiny for the sake of it. The brand has been called the maker of "silent dials", and since 2023 every Serica has a chronometer-certified Swiss movement.
History
Serica was founded in Paris by a small group of friends, with its first watches appearing around 2019. It built its reputation with the 4512 field watch and then the 5303 diver, named in tribute to 1953, the year the modern dive watch was born. The 5303's 39 mm case and distinctive bezel won over a lot of people who found most divers too big.
In 2023 Serica upgraded its whole range to COSC-certified movements and has since added the 8315 GMT ("Chronomètre de Voyage") and the 6190 Commando.
Signature models
- 5303-1 Chronometre Plongee: The diver that made Serica's name, with a 39 mm case and a COSC-certified movement.
- 8315-1 Chronometre de Voyage: A GMT for travelers, with a second time zone and the same calm dial design.
- 6190 Commando: A military-inspired field watch, and the most affordable Serica.
What it's known for
Serica watches are designed in Paris and made with Swiss movements, and they look like serious instruments rather than fashion objects. They're popular with collectors who already own the big names and want something less obvious.
Price and positioning
Serica watches mostly cost $1,200 to $2,300. Formex and Christopher Ward offer chronometers in a similar range, and Baltic is the other notable French brand at a lower price.
Serica watches in our library
- Serica 6190 Commando ($1,200 to $1,310)
- Serica 5303-1 Chronometre Plongee ($1,750 to $1,910)
- Serica 8315-1 Chronometre de Voyage ($2,300 to $2,510)