Founded in 2018 by engineer Clément Meynier, Depancel is a French watch brand born from a deep-seated passion for the mechanics of both automobiles and timepieces. The name itself is a tribute to the golden age of French automotive manufacturing, a portmanteau of three iconic brands: Delage, Panhard, and Facel Vega. This heritage is the driving force behind Depancel's philosophy, which aims to capture the creative spirit and pleasure of driving embodied by these legendary car makers and translate it into the world of horology. The brand proudly operates from near Besançon, the historic heart of French watchmaking, ensuring that each timepiece is imbued with exceptional craftsmanship and precision.
Depancel's collections are a direct reflection of its automotive inspiration, designed for enthusiasts of motorsport and vintage aesthetics. The brand's universe is a vibrant homage to the timeless elegance and cutting-edge engineering of classic competitions. This is evident in their two main collections, the ALLURE and the Série-R. The ALLURE collection features racing chronographs with round, vintage-inspired cases, designed to be the essential instrument for the modern "gentleman driver," equally at home on the track and in the paddock.
In contrast, the Série-R collection makes a bold statement with its distinctive square case design. This iconic collection is for those who wish to express their unwavering passion for motorsport and individuality. The audacious and spontaneous design of the Série-R is a clear nod to the brand's core identity of daring to be different. Through these collections and its community-driven approach, Depancel seeks to gather, inspire, and equip those who, like its founder, never stop chasing their passions.