The Renaissance of Independent Watchmaking: How Depancel and Amida Are Shaping the Future

From Motor Racing to Mechanical Marvels, Indies Prove That Creativity and Craft Can Thrive Beyond Big Luxury Groups

The world of horology is witnessing a renaissance, and the driving force behind it is independent watchmakers. At Geneva Watch Days 2025, Olivier Romang, Head of Product for two rising independent brands—Depancel and Amida—shared insights on how these niche players are reshaping the watch industry with creativity, craftsmanship, and community. Both brands are part of ADM Watch, a platform dedicated to reviving historic brands and fostering innovative ideas in watchmaking.

Romang, who brings over 25 years of experience from Cartier and Tag Heuer, explained the appeal of the indie scene. “Compared to big groups, indies have more freedom, but of course, the scale and pace of the business are more measurable,” he said. Having worked extensively in both sales and product development, Romang has a full 360-degree view of what it takes to bring an authentic mechanical watch to market.

The journey of Depancel and Amida began with founder Clément Meynier, a former physicist at CERN turned watchmaker. “Depancel belongs to the world of motor racing. It’s French-made, accessible, and high-quality, with prices ranging from 500 to 2,500 EUR,” Romang said. The brand pays homage to French automotive history, with its name derived from a fusion of three legendary car manufacturers—Delage, Panhard, and Facel Vega.

Amida, on the other hand, is a revival of a Swiss brand born in 1925. Its hallmark is the Digitrain, a mechanical “casquette” watch that appears digital but features patented jumping hour and optical solutions to display numbers sideways. Relaunched last year, Amida remains Swiss-crafted yet surprisingly affordable, priced below 5,000 EUR. “It’s beautifully made, offers exceptional value, and keeps the magic of mechanical watches alive,” Romang emphasized.

The goal for both brands goes beyond producing watches—it’s about building communities. “We create niche brands with careful, progressive growth. Amida will continue with limited drops and collaborations, while Depancel aims to become a reference in high-quality racing watches and French horology,” Romang noted.

Romang highlighted the vital role of indie brands in keeping mechanical watchmaking accessible. “Indies appeal to those chasing niche stories, innovative movements, and unique cases, outside the realms of large luxury groups. While Swiss watch sales have declined over thirty years, both big maisons and small players are essential to sustaining the industry.”

In an era dominated by digital clicks and fleeting trends, watches have shifted from functional tools for drivers, sailors, and pilots to objects of style and craft. Yet, Romang believes that the passion for mechanical watches can inspire new generations: “A well-crafted watch can tick forever, connecting people to history, craftsmanship, and stories that transcend time itself.”

With Depancel and Amida, the future of watchmaking is clear—one where independent creators lead the way, blending heritage, innovation, and authenticity in every timepiece.