• Autodromo Watches A Celebration of Motorsport History and Horological Excellence
  • Revving through Time a Journey with Autodromo Watches

    A thrilling ride through the heritage, collections, and timeless allure of Autodromo

    Hourstriker Staff
    Words by: Hourstriker Staff
    May 29, 2023
  • Strap yourself in, fellow horology enthusiasts and buckle up for a thrilling journey through the fast-paced world of Autodromo watches. Founded in 2011, Autodromo is a brand that masterfully captures the spirit of vintage motor racing, integrating it into meticulously crafted, automotive-themed timepieces. So, if you're a fan of the screeching tires, roaring engines, and the electrifying adrenaline rush that comes with racing, then you're in for an absolute treat!

    Picture this: A glorious era of motor racing, where daring drivers pushed the boundaries of speed and human courage, where classic automobiles, marked by their distinct aesthetic and engineering excellence, reigned supreme. It's this golden age of motorsports that Autodromo aims to celebrate through its range of timepieces. The brand's motto, "Stradale," literally translates to "road going" in Italian, illustrating the brand's commitment to capturing the spirit of road racing within its collections.

    Courtesy of Autodromo
    Courtesy of Autodromo


    The mastermind steering the Autodromo journey is none other than Bradley Price, an industrial designer with an indomitable passion for vintage cars and chronographs. Price's love for vintage automobiles goes back to his childhood. He was enchanted by the exhilarating world of motor racing, fascinated by the masterful blend of engineering and design in classic cars, and awestruck by the daring audacity of the men who drove them. His passion for automobiles eventually paved the way for his interest in chronographs, resulting in a collection of timepieces that mirror the aesthetics of classic dashboards and the precision of a finely tuned engine.

    The conception of Autodromo came when Price noticed a void in the market. While there were plenty of high-end, automobile-themed watches out there, there were very few that catered to those who desired more accessible, yet still sophisticated and authentic automotive-inspired timepieces. Driven by his fervor for both chronographs and vintage racing, Price decided to seize the opportunity and thus, Autodromo was born.

    Autodromo, despite being a relatively young brand in the world of horology, has made a significant impact in a short span of time, mirroring the high-octane races it derives inspiration from. Over the years, the brand has consistently showcased an ability to create timepieces that perfectly capture the essence of the golden era of motoring. They're not just watches, they're an homage to a bygone era, inviting you to experience the thrill and nostalgia of the classic motorsport era.

    Price's attention to detail is astounding. Each element of every watch is designed to reflect the classic automotive theme. From the design of the dials that mirror the dashboards of vintage cars, to the strap materials that often incorporate car seat upholstery textures, to the watch cases that often resemble the shape of vintage motoring gauges, every tiny detail contributes to the larger narrative of automobile homage.

    Courtesy of Autodromo
    Courtesy of Autodromo


    Despite this concentration on style, Autodromo does not neglect the technical aspects of watchmaking. In fact, it places significant emphasis on ensuring that its timepieces are not just aesthetically pleasing, but also mechanically sound. Autodromo has launched several models with automatic movements, and even ventured into more complex horological territory with their 'Monoposto Chronograph,' a mechanical chronograph that further reinforced the brand's commitment to technical excellence.

    Moreover, Autodromo's limited-edition pieces and collaborations are noteworthy milestones in the brand's history. One of their most acclaimed collaborations is with Ford Motor Company, where they celebrated the iconic Ford GT's triumphant return to Le Mans by launching the Ford GT Owners Edition Chronograph, a customizable timepiece only available to owners of the Ford GT. This collaboration highlights Autodromo’s growing recognition and acceptance in both the watch and automotive industries.

    Now, let's rev our engines and speed deeper into the Autodromo universe, discovering the watch collections that make this brand truly stand out on the horological racetrack!

    Strap on your seat belts as we navigate the thrilling circuit of Autodromo's watch collections. Each of their collections is a testament to the brand's commitment to capturing the spirit of vintage racing, with every detail meticulously crafted to reflect the exhilarating world of motorsports. Let's start with the 'Monoposto' collection, Autodromo's first automatic timepiece and an instant classic among horology enthusiasts.

    The Monoposto, which translates to 'single seat', was initially introduced as a limited-edition model in 2012 and became an instant favorite among watch and automotive fans. This model is a tribute to the simplistic beauty of the old single-seater racing cars. The dial is inspired by a vintage rev counter, with a distinct "redline" scratch on the crystal reminiscent of the tape that mechanics used to put on the rev counters to prevent drivers from over-revving the engine. This subtle detail is a nod to the connection between man and machine, capturing the essence of the golden era of racing. Later, the Monoposto Chronograph was introduced, embracing the same aesthetic but with an added chronograph function, further solidifying the collection's place in the hearts of watch and motorsport aficionados.

    Monoposto
    Monoposto Courtesy of Autodromo


    Moving from the race track to the open road, the 'Stradale' collection pays tribute to the grand touring cars of the mid-century. The Stradale (meaning "road-going") models boast a dial inspired by the dashboard instruments from Italian sports berlinettas of the late '50s and '60s. The domed crystal and case shape bear the elegance and subtlety of the touring cars of this era. Coupled with a beautiful leather strap, the Stradale perfectly captures the essence of a scenic drive along the Italian countryside in a classic Alfa Romeo or Ferrari. The subtlety, charm, and unpretentious elegance of the Stradale line make it an undeniable classic.

    Stradale
    Stradale Courtesy of Autodromo


    Next up is the 'Prototipo' collection, designed to commemorate an epic chapter of motorsports history - the late '60s and early '70s era of racing. Named after the prototype racing cars of this time, the Prototipo models are versatile chronographs that ooze vintage charm. These timepieces feature vibrant colors and bold designs reminiscent of the racing cars of this period. One standout piece from this line is the Prototipo Chronograph - Vic Elford Edition, named after the legendary British race car driver who celebrated numerous victories during the '60s and '70s. This model is a tribute to Elford's remarkable career and the fearless spirit of the era's motorsports.

    Group B Prototipo
    Group B Prototipo Courtesy of Autodromo


    Last but certainly not least, we have the 'Group B' collection, which is a nod to the wild and untamed world of Group B rally racing. Group B rally, often referred to as the "golden era of rallying," was known for its almost unrestricted regulations, leading to some of the fastest, most powerful, and sophisticated rally cars ever built. The Group B models echo this daring and adventurous spirit with a lightweight, automatic timepiece made from titanium and stainless steel. With a bi-metallic case construction, integrated bracelet design, and a dial inspired by the technological aesthetics of the '80s, the Group B models successfully encapsulate the unapologetic boldness of the rally cars they represent.

    Courtesy of Autodromo
    Courtesy of Autodromo


    Through these collections, Autodromo takes us on an exciting ride down memory lane, revisiting the iconic eras of motor racing. Each line, with its own distinctive charm, embodies a facet of automotive history, beautifully blending the past with the present. Autodromo's timepieces are more than just tools of timekeeping – they are chronicles of motorsports history, waiting to be worn and to inspire new stories. And as we journey through the brand's catalogue, we can't help but admire their unwavering dedication to their automotive roots, a dedication that is reflected in every beautifully crafted detail. Now, let's shift gears and move to the conclusion of this exhilarating journey through the world of Autodromo watches.

    As we cruise towards the end of our exciting journey through the world of Autodromo watches, it's impossible not to be swept up by the brand's passion for the golden era of motorsports. This unique brand offers more than just a collection of timepieces - it delivers a thrilling experience, an evocative trip back in time to the captivating age of classic racing. From the open roads of the Stradale collection to the rally stages of Group B, every watch line presents a unique journey that echoes with the roar of engines and the thrill of speed.

    The horological world is often marked by tradition and antiquity, but here we have a brand, a decade into its journey, fearlessly marking its territory in this prestigious universe. Autodromo, with its unique theme, bold aesthetic, and an eye for detail, is a refreshing breeze in the landscape of watchmaking. A decade might seem like a brief moment in the grand scheme of horology, but Autodromo's impact has been profound, shaking up the market and captivating watch enthusiasts and automotive aficionados alike.

    Courtesy of Autodromo
    Courtesy of Autodromo


    Every watch in Autodromo’s collection is an embodiment of the brand’s core values - authenticity, originality, and a genuine passion for the era of motor racing it represents. It's clear that each watch is not just a product but a labor of love, meticulously crafted to pay tribute to the spirit of vintage racing. Whether it's the Monoposto's 'redline' scratch or the Prototipo's vibrant dial, every detail is a testament to the brand's commitment to its automotive roots.

    Autodromo’s commitment to quality and attention to detail goes beyond their timepieces. The brand’s packaging is also carefully curated to enhance the overall experience. Each watch comes in a custom-designed box, often including a signed booklet or a unique collector’s item, further cementing the brand’s dedication to providing a comprehensive thematic experience.

    One cannot discuss Autodromo without mentioning the man behind the wheel, Bradley Price. Price's passion and respect for vintage motorsports are the heart and soul of Autodromo. His vision and creativity have steered the brand on an exciting course through the world of horology, distinguishing Autodromo as a brand that truly captures the romance of classic racing. The fusion of his industrial design prowess with his passion for cars has resulted in timepieces that are as much works of art as they are functional tools.

    Additionally, Autodromo's approach to collaborations deserves applause. Their partnerships, most notably with Ford, are not just marketing strategies but strategic alliances that further reinforce the brand's authenticity and commitment to the world of motorsports. These collaborations bring additional layers of storytelling and exclusivity to the brand, reinforcing its niche in the watchmaking industry.

    Courtesy of Autodromo
    Courtesy of Autodromo


    As we cross the finish line of our Autodromo adventure, it's clear that this is a brand that truly understands and celebrates its inspiration. Autodromo isn’t just selling watches; it's offering a piece of nostalgia, a tangible connection to a beloved era of automotive history. With each tick of an Autodromo watch, we are reminded of the roar of classic racing engines, the daring spirit of vintage race car drivers, and the timeless beauty of classic cars.

    Autodromo's journey is a reminder that in the race of horology, it's not always about how long you've been in the game, but rather the passion, authenticity, and dedication you bring to the table. In just a decade, Autodromo has carved its name in the annals of horological history, and if its journey so far is any indication, the brand is destined for even more remarkable achievements. As watch lovers and racing enthusiasts, we can only tighten our seatbelts and look forward to what Autodromo brings to the track next. Until then, let's appreciate the timeless beauty and spirited essence of Autodromo's creations, which continue to win hearts, one tick at a time.
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