Abordage Horlogerie is a French independent watch brand based in the coastal city of Saint-Malo, Brittany. The brand was founded by two brothers, Xavier and Guillaume, who combined their backgrounds as a watch designer and an entrepreneur to create a project rooted in their family heritage and the maritime history of their hometown. The inspiration for the brand originated from a desire to honor the legacy of their grandfather and the deep historical connection between Saint-Malo and marine chronometry.
The brand’s identity is defined by the “Corsair Spirit,” which emphasizes exploration, functional robustness, and French craftsmanship. Enthusiasts are often drawn to Abordage Horlogerie for its commitment to local production and transparency. The brand ensures its watches are designed and assembled in France, specifically within a 40 km radius of Saint-Malo, to maintain a close link to the community that inspires its designs. Furthermore, the brand prioritizes sustainability and ethical excellence by partnering with environmental initiatives focused on ocean protection.
A key technical feature of Abordage timepieces is the use of mechanical movements from France Ebauches. This partnership is central to the brand’s mission of supporting the revival of the French watchmaking industry. By utilizing calibers produced and assembled in France, Abordage offers a distinct alternative to the common reliance on foreign-made movements, appealing to collectors who value national heritage and authenticity.
The flagship collection of the brand is the 1712 series. This collection is named after the year the Noguette bell was brought to Saint-Malo, a symbol that regulated maritime life in the region. The 1712 watches, such as the 170001 model, feature a 39mm stainless steel case and are designed to embody maritime elegance and exploration. These pieces are built to high technical standards, including water and shock resistance, ensuring they serve as robust tools for modern explorers while maintaining a sophisticated aesthetic. Through these designs, Abordage Horlogerie seeks to create a contemporary link to the history of navigation and the spirit of the great explorers.