Advolat is a non-microbrand watch company founded in 2013 that seamlessly integrates architectural design expertise with engineering precision. Headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, the brand’s mission is to create timepieces that are defined by lasting value and exceptional craftsmanship, adhering to strict Swiss quality standards. Advolat positions itself as a purveyor of true Swiss timepieces, combining reliability with a genuine and distinctive brand personality.
The brand was established by the partnership of architect Kristina C. Franke and engineer Dr. Wolf D. Franke. This dual-founder structure provides Advolat with a unique foundation, ensuring that every watch design is a balanced blend of aesthetic consideration and technical feasibility. Their combined acumen delivers a strong message of quality and authenticity that resonates with a broad demographic of watch enthusiasts and collectors.
Advolat cultivates a brand identity that emphasizes its unique backstory, which includes its distinction as a veteran-owned business. Unlike many new entrants in the market, the company provides substantial and transparent information regarding its history, mission, and dedication to quality. This high level of transparency and focus on a genuine narrative gives the brand a strong, appealing personality that sets it apart from its competitors.
The commitment to quality is formally validated by Advolat’s membership in the Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry FH, signifying adherence to rigorous Swiss law and manufacturing standards. This dedication is also evident in the “Always Sapphire” policy, where every timepiece is fitted with a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal over the dial. This superior material is only rated below white diamond on the Mohs hardness scale, ensuring perfect clarity and durability.
The watch cases are built for resilience, crafted exclusively from 316L marine-grade stainless steel, which is the same high grade used for yacht fittings. This robust material is also used for the high-quality stainless-steel bracelets offered by the brand, ensuring maximum longevity and corrosion resistance. Furthermore, the company ensures its timepieces are able to withstand demanding environments, with models field-tested by individuals in high-stress careers such as police and military personnel.
At the heart of Advolat’s are reliable movements chosen to cater to varied consumer preferences. The collection includes high-precision Swiss-made quartz movements for absolute accuracy, alongside classic automatic mechanical movements based on Miyota calibers for those who appreciate the charm of traditional horology. This variety ensures that superior quality and lasting performance are never sacrificed, regardless of the movement type.
One of Advolat’s key offerings is the Flieger Automatic series, which pays homage to classic pilot’s while maintaining an affordable and accessible profile. For instance, the Flieger Automatic model is housed in a 42mm x 12mm 316L stainless steel case, striking a comfortable and contemporary balance that appeals to many collectors. Each variant of this specific model is often a limited edition, individually numbered out of 888 pieces.
The Flieger model showcases an extremely legible dial, featuring large numeral markers and clearly defined rectangular and triangular indices at the quarter positions, set against a high-contrast background. The double-domed sapphire crystal is treated with an anti-reflective coating, further enhancing readability. Its utility-focused design is completed with a durable brushed-finish case and an oversized, diamond-shaped crown for extreme ease of use.
Another significant line is the BAUHAUS collection, which is defined by minimalist and elegant design principles rooted in the German art movement. The Original BAUHAUS 1 Sapphire Chronograph is a notable piece, often featuring a 44mm case and powered by a reliable quartz chronograph movement. Like the Flieger, this model is typically a limited edition, individually numbered, which adds to the collectible nature of the brand’s offerings.
In summary, Advolat has successfully established itself by providing affordable, high-specification timepieces that adhere to rigorous Swiss standards. The blend of the Franke founders’ design and engineering expertise, the brand’s transparent, veteran-owned philosophy, and a focus on resilience ensures a loyal following. People are drawn to Advolat because they offer well-made, dependable with a genuine story, designed for lasting value and every kind of daily adventure.