From Speedometers to Wristwear: The Story Behind Audoin Watches

Our Interview with Florian, Founder of Audoin Watches. Florian, the creator of Audoin Watches, didn’t set out to be a watchmaker. A French native now living in Berlin, he simply couldn’t find a timepiece that captured his love of vintage cars and motorcycles—so he built his own. Inspired by 1970s speedometers, his watch features dual horizontal dials and a bold, industrial case that echoes dashboard gauges. “I designed it as if it was a speedometer for a 1970s vehicle but smaller to fit on the wrist,” Florian says. With no formal training in design or watchmaking, he spent 1.5 years teaching himself 3D modeling, prototyping with 3D printers, and eventually CNC milling in stainless steel—all while raising two kids and working full time. One of his favorite features? The recessed crown, tucked neatly inside the case. But more than the technical choices, he’s proud the design isn’t a copy or homage. “If I had started with a single dial NH35 and catalog parts, I wouldn’t have bothered. My goal was to design a watch I enjoy wearing.” Originally intended for car and bike lovers, the watch has unexpectedly resonated with seasoned collectors. “That makes me even happier,” Florian admits. “It means they like the idea and the story behind it.” With just 10 units produced in his debut series and a second model already in the works, Audoin Watches is a small but deeply personal project. And Florian’s dream? That one day, someone sees one of his pieces and simply says, “That’s an Audoin.”