ReviewLuxe For Less: Introducing Frederique Constant’s Latest Classics Tourbillon Manufacture
Frederique Constant celebrate their 35th anniversary with the release of the Classics Tourbillon Manufacture—a stunning timepiece that combines the brand's signature elegance and accessibility with the technical innovation of a tourbillon movement
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At the forefront of haute horology stands the tourbillon—a mechanical marvel invented to solve the problem of gravity affecting the accuracy of pocket watches. Abraham-Louis Breguet’s ingenious solution, the constantly rotating mechanism, remains the pinnacle of watchmaking prowess and a symbol of a serious watchmaking house’s skill. Yet, for the Geneva-based Frederique Constant—a brand known for their accessible luxury timepieces—the tourbillon represents an opportunity to showcase their capabilities and break the mould of traditional watchmaking. Their latest tourbillon, 2023’s Classics Tourbillon Manufacture presents sophistication and refinement through and through.
Accessible Luxury And The Classics Tourbillon
Founded just 35 years ago, Frederique Constant have already established themselves as a go-to brand for enthusiasts seeking high-end quality at accessible prices. The brand’s focus on traditional Swiss mechanical watchmaking has led to the development of over 30 in-house calibres. And since its inception, the Classics collection has been an integral part of Frederique Constant’s range. This year, as they celebrate their anniversary, they have presented a new version of the Classics Tourbillon Manufacture. Initially released in 2008, the brand’s in-house tourbillon calibre reappears in a luxurious 39mm case, featuring a more modern dial design. The limited-edition Classics Tourbillon Manufacture comprises 150 individual, numbered pieces in gold, and 350 each for the steel variations.
Classics Tourbillon: Stunning In Rose Gold
The 39mm case in 18-karat rose gold of the new Classics Tourbillon is polished to perfection and has a height of 10.99mm, giving it an elegant look. The watch has a contemporary design with minimal information on the sunray-brushed grey dial, which provides a stunning contrast against the warm rose gold case. The applied diamond-cut and rose gold-plated indices and hour and minute hands are hand-polished to perfection, ensuring that all attention is drawn to the large aperture at six o’clock, where the tourbillon takes centre stage. This is a departure from the previous iterations of the tourbillon, which had more elaborate designs with Roman numerals, stamped guilloche-style dials and Breguet-style hands.
The Steely Blue Classics Tourbillon
The steel versions of the Classics Tourbillon Manufacture are just as elegant as their rose gold counterpart. With the same dimensions, they are suitable for any wrist size. The watches have a classic and sophisticated look, fitting for their name, and are polished to a mirror finish, which adds to their refined appearance. The steel casing makes them versatile enough for any setting, whether it’s a formal office setting or a casual evening out, and the sunburst-finished blue and silver dials, combined with the blue leather strap, make them highly adaptable for different wardrobe choices.
The Pièce de Résistance Of The Classics Tourbillon
Fifteen years ahead of its time, Frederique Constant’s calibre FC-980 was a self-winding tourbillon movement that debuted long before accessible tourbillons had hit the market. While it may not be the most luxurious tourbillon movement available, the FC-980 still boasts refined finishing visible through the dial’s aperture, including a curved rose gold bridge, blued screws, and a silicon escapement wheel. The Heart Beat opening displays the one-minute, 80-part tourbillon with its blued screws and seconds hand mounted on top, beating at 28,800vph and providing a 38-hour power reserve. The cage is engraved with the watch’s serial number, while chamfering, circular graining, and mirror polishing add to its high-end appeal. More of the movement is showcased through the caseback, exhibiting exquisite finishing such as blued screws, industrial chamfering, perlage on the mainplate, and striping on the bridges.
What We Think
The Classics Tourbillon Manufacture from Frederique Constant speaks volumes about the brand’s innovative spirit. Their ability to add a tourbillon to a dress watch at this price point is a feat worth celebrating and showcases their unwavering commitment to offering customers the best value. By taking an existing calibre and giving it a fresh twist, they’ve demonstrated their prowess in enhancing original designs. With this watch, the brand celebrate their remarkable 35-year journey as they offer us a glimpse of an even more promising future.
