Top 5 Watches From Herbelin (Independent French Brand)

Here at WatchGecko, we love discovering unique watch brands that deserve more attention. Today, we’re diving into the world of Herbelin—a French independent, family-owned watch brand that has been crafting timepieces for over 77 years. Despite their global presence, there isn’t as much content about them as there should be, so we’re here to change that.

We had the pleasure of welcoming Hervé Minestrel, Herbelin’s Area Sales Manager for the South of the UK, to the office to showcase five standout models from their two flagship collections: Newport and Cap Camarat. Let’s explore what makes these watches special.

The Newport collection, launched in 1988, was inspired by sailing and transatlantic yachts. Designed by the son of Michel Herbelin after a visit to Newport, Rhode Island, it has become a hallmark of the brand’s identity.

For the 35th anniversary of the Newport line in 2023, Herbelin introduced the Newport Carbon Titanium, an innovative timepiece developed in collaboration with sailor Aurélien Ducroz. The watch features a forged carbon and titanium case—DLC-coated titanium for the inner case and a forged carbon outer shell—making it both lightweight and durable.

The dial is adorned with wave patterns inspired by the seabed of Saint-Malo, the starting point of the Route du Rhum race. Powered by the Sellita SW220 movement, it boasts a 41-hour power reserve, a day-date complication, and an exhibition case back. It comes on a robust FKM rubber strap with a 10-year warranty, ensuring longevity and comfort.

One of the newest additions to the Newport collection is the Newport Chronograph Bicompax Automatic, released in Spring 2024. This limited-edition timepiece (only 300 pieces available) takes design cues from vintage 1960s chronographs, blending classic styling with modern reliability.

At its heart is the Sellita SW510 movement, offering an impressive 62-hour power reserve. The watch features a domed sapphire crystal, a polished ceramic bezel, and high-quality finishing throughout. Retailing at £2,600, this bicompax chronograph is an excellent choice for enthusiasts who appreciate vintage aesthetics paired with contemporary performance.

The Cap Camarat Square Automatic is a bold and versatile timepiece inspired by 1970s design. Initially launched in 2018 as a round model, its success led to the introduction of the square variant in 2019.

Housed in a 39mm x 39mm 316L stainless steel case, the watch is powered by the Sellita SW220 movement with a 38-hour power reserve. A patterned dial—evoking the deck of a wooden boat—adds a nautical touch, while the six o’clock date window ensures practicality. With 100m water resistance and a comfortable FKM rubber strap, the Cap Camarat Square is an everyday watch with distinctive style.

In 2023, Herbelin expanded the Cap Camarat range with its first diving watch, drawing inspiration from the super compressor models of the 1970s. Unlike traditional divers with an external bezel, the Cap Camarat Diver features an inner rotating bezel, adjustable via a crown at two o’clock.

The watch is powered by a customized Sellita SW220 movement with a 41-hour power reserve and features an exhibition case back. Its bold design elements, including the boat deck-patterned dial, applied indexes, and a striking orange second hand, make it an eye-catching yet functional dive watch. Priced at £1,080, it offers fantastic value for money.

A departure from the classic dive watch aesthetic, the Newport Diver Automatic retains the Newport collection’s signature design DNA, including the distinctive central lugs and a cushion-shaped case. This model is built for serious underwater exploration, offering 300m water resistance.

It features a brushed and polished stainless steel case, a ceramic bezel, and a domed sapphire crystal. Like other Herbelin divers, it runs on the Sellita SW220 movement, visible through the exhibition case back, with a power reserve of around 40 hours. The ship’s wheel engraving on the crown adds a final maritime touch.

When asked for his personal favourite, Hervé chose the Cap Camarat Diver, highlighting its super compressor-inspired case and value for money at just £1,080. It’s a unique blend of vintage and modern, offering both style and robust functionality.

Herbelin’s commitment to design, craftsmanship, and Swiss movement reliability makes their watches an exciting alternative to mainstream brands. Whether you’re drawn to the innovative Newport Carbon Titanium, the vintage charm of the Newport Chronograph, or the distinctive appeal of the Cap Camarat Diver, there’s something for every watch enthusiast.

Now, we’d love to hear from you! Which of these Herbelin models is your favourite? Let us know in the comments below.