The Maker Series

The Speedometer on the Wrist: Florian, Founder of Audoin Watches

A French native living in Berlin, Florian is a self-taught maker who turned his obsession for 1970s automotive design into a unique dual-dial timepiece. With no formal training, he navigated 3D modeling and CNC milling to create something entirely original.

In an interview with Florian, the French native and founder of Audoin Watches now living in Berlin, we discovered he didn’t set out to be a watchmaker. He simply couldn’t find a timepiece that captured his love for vintage cars and motorcycles—so he built his own.

“I designed it as if it was a speedometer for a 1970s vehicle but smaller to fit on the wrist.”

Inspired by 1970s speedometers, his watch features dual horizontal dials and a bold, industrial case that echoes dashboard gauges. 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.

The Design Philosophy

Florian particularly loves the recessed crown, tucked neatly inside the case. More than the technical choices, however, he’s proud that the design isn’t a copy or homage. "If I had started with a single dial NH35 and catalog parts," Florian explains, "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.”

The Future of Audoin

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. Florian’s dream is that one day, someone sees one of his pieces and simply says, “That’s an Audoin.”