Watchatlas

SERICA

Paris, France · Est. 2016

Founded by Benjamin Schmitt

SERICA is a French independent watch brand founded in 2016 by Benjamin Schmitt, based in Paris. The brand creates modern reinterpretations of mid-20th century French watchmaking with Swiss-made movements, known for elegant dial designs and restrained aesthetics rooted in vintage French horological tradition.

Founded
2016
Headquarters
Paris, France
Group
Independent
Price Segment
Entry
Status
Active

Key Collections

  • 5303 — SERICA’s flagship dive chronometer collection, built around the Ref. 5303 family with professional water resistance, COSC positioning, and a refined tool-watch aesthetic that balances technical capability with the brand’s signature restrained styling. Key references: 5303.
  • 4512 — SERICA 4512 is a chronograph line with a vintage aviation-instrument aesthetic, typically characterized by a clean bi-compax layout and domed crystal, fitting the brand’s compact tool-watch ethos.
  • 8315 — SERICA’s GMT travel chronometer collection, defined by its distinctive 24-hour bezel architecture, lollipop GMT hand, and COSC-certified mechanical execution within the brand’s minimalist, mid-century-inspired design vocabulary. Key references: 8315.

Timeline

  • 2016 — Benjamin Schmitt founds SERICA in Paris, inspired by mid-20th century French military and diving watches.
  • 2018 — Launches the 5303 — the brand's first production watch — which sells out almost immediately and establishes SERICA's cult following.
  • 2021 — Introduces the 4512 chronograph, expanding the collection while maintaining the signature vintage-modern design language.
  • 2023 — Launches the 8315 GMT, the brand's third collection, meeting demand for a travel watch in the SERICA style.
  • 2025 — French microbrand continues strong growth with the 5303, 4512, and 8315 field/dive watches; known for excellent value and clean vintage-inspired design with quick-sellout launches.

Frequently Asked Questions about SERICA

Why are SERICA watches hard to buy?
SERICA produces in small batches and sells direct from its website, with drops that typically sell out within minutes. The brand does not use traditional retail distribution.
What movements does SERICA use?
Swiss-made movements, primarily from Soprod and Sellita, selected for reliability and value. The brand focuses its design investment on case, dial, and bracelet quality.

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