French watchmaker Depancel has announced the release of its latest limited edition timepiece, the Série-R01 Black Tangerine. This new chronograph, inspired by classic automobiles, was unveiled on October 16, 2025, and marks yet another milestone for the brand, which has seen significant growth since its inception in 2018. The Série-R01 Black Tangerine is powered by a Peacock SL-4801 automatic movement and is assembled in France, offering a compelling blend of style and functionality at a price of US$1,495.
Depancel’s latest release is the result of a unique collaborative process involving more than 3,000 watch enthusiasts who contributed to its design. This community-driven approach allowed fans to influence key aspects of the watch, including the case, dial, and movement, ensuring a product that resonates deeply with its audience.
Automotive Heritage and Design
The name ‘Depancel’ itself is a nod to the brand’s automotive roots, combining elements from the names of iconic French car manufacturers: Delage, Panhard, and Facel Vega. This heritage is clearly reflected in the Série-R01 Black Tangerine, which draws inspiration from mid-20th-century motorsport. The watch features a Série-R case design reminiscent of the grills of classic sports cars, with a distinctive black color scheme that follows the release of the Série R Tangerine in 2024.
The dimensions of the watch have been thoughtfully adjusted from previous models, with a case size of 40 x 36 mm, a lug-to-lug measurement of 48.5 mm, and a thickness of 12.4 mm, making it a comfortable fit for everyday wear. The watch is paired with a black bull leather perforated rally-style strap, accented with orange stitching and a subtle nod to its French craftsmanship through a tri-color stitch.
Intricate Dial and Movement
The dial of the Série-R01 Black Tangerine is a testament to Depancel’s attention to detail. It features a two-level design with various finishes, including a vertical lined pattern on the outermost portion, reminiscent of vintage race car air vents. The inner dial showcases an outward sunray pattern, while the chronograph registers boast a textured radial finish. The chronograph hands, along with the outer portion of the minutes register, are highlighted in bright orange to enhance readability.
Underneath the faceted sapphire crystal, which includes an anti-reflective coating, lies the Peacock SL-4801 calibre. This Chinese-made automatic column-wheel chronograph movement offers a 55-hour power reserve, 41 jewels, and operates at 28,000 bph. The movement is visible through a sapphire case back, with a rotor signed by Depancel, underscoring the brand’s commitment to quality and innovation.
The Broader Implications
Depancel’s decision to incorporate the Peacock SL-4801 movement in a non-Chinese watch is indicative of a growing trend towards utilizing high-quality Chinese movements in the global watch industry. This move could potentially open new avenues for brands seeking to offer complex timepieces at competitive prices, without compromising on quality.
As Depancel completes assembly in France, concerns about reliability are minimized, providing reassurance to consumers. The brand’s continued use of this calibre suggests confidence in its performance and reliability, which could influence future releases.
Availability and Future Prospects
The Depancel Série-R01 Black Tangerine Limited Edition is restricted to just 100 pieces, with orders opening on October 16, 2025, at 4 pm Paris time. Deliveries are expected to commence by the end of February 2026, and interested buyers can place their orders directly through Depancel’s website.
This release not only highlights Depancel’s innovative approach to watchmaking but also its ability to engage with its community, creating timepieces that resonate with both enthusiasts and collectors. As the brand continues to expand its portfolio, the Série-R01 Black Tangerine stands as a testament to Depancel’s dedication to craftsmanship and its passion for motorsport-inspired design.
