French microbrand Serica have finally added a date complication to their lineup! More than that, they’re taking it on an extreme expedition!
As vast as the microbrand watch world is, one brand that has consistently stood out is Serica. Founded in 2019 by Jérôme Burgert and Gabriel Vachette, it has become synonymous with what the microbrand industry represents: a combination of unique aesthetics and robust, modern horology. they have become a go-to choice for rugged professionals everywhere.
While that might sound like marketing hyperbole, it’s a literal reality. The limited-edition Ref. 5303 PLD, for example, was created for France’s Marine Nationale, specifically for individuals specialising in underwater EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) work.
Serica’s designs have remained consistent over time, sharing one notable feature: the absence of a date window. This year, however, the brand has changed that. Meet the Ref. 5330, a new take on Serica’s dive watch, now equipped with a much-requested date complication.
On paper, not much has changed between the Ref. 5330 and its predecessor. Encased in stainless steel, Serica retains the Goldilocks case dimensions of 39mm wide, 46.5mm long, and 12.2mm thick. The robust frame also offers 300m of water resistance. Suitable for all genders and most wrist sizes, it comes with two options for bracelet length.
The Ref. 5330 comes on Serica’s signature Vesper mesh strap, with two versions available: ‘Short’, for wrists 13.5–17.5cm, and ‘Standard’, for 15.5–21.5cm. With my wrist measuring around 16.3cm, either would fit, though I’d personally choose the shorter length. For those who prefer simplicity, the Ref. 5330 also comes with a complementary white/red NATO fabric strap suitable for anyone.
This release coincides with an important milestone for Serica. Given that its watches are built for adventure, it’s only fitting to put them to the test in extreme conditions. French adventurer Alexandre Gaye will don the Ref. 5330 during his solo crossing of Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier, in Iceland.
Spanning 180 kilometres in sub-zero temperatures, the Serica Isskrími Expedition will test both the explorer and the watch. We wish him and his timepiece all the best as they set off together in April!
Serica has also refined some design elements for the Ref. 5330. Compared with the Ref. 5303, several components have been adjusted for better balance. The 10-minute countdown engravings on the diver/dual-time bezel have been replaced with a simpler ‘50’ for greater symmetry. The minute/second track has been pulled slightly inward, improving readability, while the ‘SERICA / SWISS’ text at six o’clock has been lowered into the periphery. The double rounded lume plots at 12 o’clock have been reduced in size and moved upward. The most significant change, though, is the date window, featuring high-contrast red text on a white background.
In line with the brand’s other watches, the caseback remains minimally decorated. Inside, the movement is capable of handling boardrooms as well as blizzards and beaches. The Ref. 5330 is powered by the Soprod Cal. M100, beating at 4Hz (28,800vph) with a 42-hour power reserve.
The date complication is the only new mechanical addition, but the Cal. M100 remains impressive. Each movement is COSC Chronometer Certified, ensuring an accuracy of -4/+6 seconds per day. COSC tests even include near-zero temperatures, leaving Serica’s craftsmanship to endure Alexandre Gaye’s ambitious expedition.
Final Thoughts
The French microbrand Serica is the gift that keeps on giving. Its uniqueness makes it a challenge to write about, which only makes understanding the brand more rewarding. Having met with Jérôme Burgert and Silene Fry last year, it was a privilege to see firsthand how far the brand has come.
With the release of the Ref. 5330, it’s clear Serica still has a long journey ahead. For Alexandre Gaye, that’s 180km, but the brand’s path in watchmaking is bound to extend even further. While the French brand may not innovate or release watches as rapidly as larger commercial brands, each release impresses. Practical, purpose-built, and visually striking, the Ref. 5330 marks another chapter in Serica’s watchmaking story.
Reference: 5330
Specifications
- Dimensions: 39mm case diameter x 46.5mm lug-to-lug x 12.2mm thickness
- Case Material: Stainless steel with black/grey ceramic bezel
- Dial: Black with white & red accents
- Movement: Automatic SoProd Cal. M100 with date complication & COSC Chronometer certification
- Power Reserve: 42h
- Beat Rate: 4Hz (28,800VpH)
- Water Resistance: 300m (30bar)
- Strap: Steel Vesper mesh bracelet with clasp OR complementary red/white NATO fabric strap with steel pin buckle