Franc Vila was named after its Valencia-based founder, who began developing watches in 2000. Vila’s first watch was known to have a minute repeater, perpetual calendar, and a moon phrase complication. The Franc Vila brand made its Baselworld debut in 2005, and was later acquired by Syrian businessman Jihad Bakkoura in 2017.
Sergio Pérez
In late 2010, Vila announced his brand’s sponsorship of Sergio Pérez, who would be making his Formula 1 debut with Sauber in the following year. To mark the partnership, the FVa8Ch Bicentenario Sergio Pérez was unveiled as a limited edition of 28 pieces. The chronograph commemorated the bicentennial of Mexico’s independence, and also served as a driver edition piece for Pérez. The tricolor dial features the Mexican driver’s initials “S” and “P”, replacing the 11 and 1.
Sergio Pérez drives the Sauber C30 in 2011. (Photo: Morio, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons)
References
https://www.francvila.ch/about-us
https://en.worldtempus.com/article/franc-vila-official-watch-for-f1-driver-sergio-perez-8946.html
https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/franc-vila
https://watchesworld.com.mx/wp-content/uploads/flipbook/3/book.html#p=37