The Frederique Constant Classics Collection: 2021 Update
The Frederique Constant Classics Collection is one big family under one iconic name. Through this collection, Frederique Constant has given expression to its founding mission: to make luxury timepieces accessible to everyone. For 2021, this iconic collection is reaffirming its timeless charm with a more modern, stronger, contemporary design.
Soft lines and balanced shapes, moderation and solid watchmaking mechanics; the Classics collection sums up the spirit of Frederique Constant. Embracing feminine and masculine, modern and traditional, it has established itself as an all-important pillar of the Geneva-based manufacture.
Whether barrel-shaped, round or rectangular, the Classics share some common hallmarks. Firstly, their fondness for roman numerals. Secondly, their sleek styling. Also, their predominantly guilloché dials. Furthermore, regular everyday complications such as date, day, month and chronograph combine with more unusual features such as moonphase.
Modern and dynamic
The updated 2021 editions now form part of a livelier, more contemporary dynamic, while preserving their timeless and elegant design.
To this end, Frederique Constant has allowed three variations of its Classics to return to centre stage: the Classics Index Automatic, Classics Quartz GMT and Classics Quartz. A total of 11 new versions are now available to revitalise this key collection.
Frederique Constant Classics Index Automatic: sleek and modern
With five new models, the Classics Index Automatic is the most nourished and renewed range within the Classics collection. The overall spirit is more modern, dynamic, understated and contemporary. Plain matt blue, white or black dials replace the two-part guilloché dials. Also, roman numerals have given way to the modernity of applied hour markers, bevelled and tinged with luminescent material. Furthermore, sword-shaped hands replace the slender, tapered hands. This showcases stronger and bolder geometric lines.
Four of the 40mm diameter cases are in steel with the fifth rose gold-plated with blued steel hands. Furthermore, each variation is powered by the automatic FC-303 calibre. This offers a power reserve of 38 hours. Additionally, they are complemented by a leather strap in brown, black, or blue. The “full steel” model, which features a blue dial has a coordinating steel bracelet.
Owing to their very competitive pricing, these creations represent the most affordable access to mechanical watchmaking by Frederique Constant.
Prices:
£850-£995
Frederique Constant Classics Quartz GMT: long-distance traveller
In redesigning its “Classics Quartz GMT” range, Frederique Constant has prioritised the needs of frequent travellers. These functional, easy to read timepieces are attuned to the times and to crossing continents.
The three new models make perfect companion pieces for travel hubs. Firstly, all share a 40mm steel case and a sunray-brushed dial. Secondly, a quartz movement powers three hands for the hours, minutes and central second time zone. Also, there is a date window at 3 o’clock. Furthermore, the luminescent hands are complemented by a central GMT pointer. This has a red arrow tip indicating the second time zone at a glance. Moreover, there is no risk of day or night confusion as it is calibrated immediately over 24 hours.
Similarly, adjustments to the settings are made using the single crown. When the hands are at midnight, the second time zone is adjusted by turning the crown in one direction. Turning it the other way adjusts the date. Simple and intuitive!
The first model, has a grey dial with a brown nubuck-finish calfskin strap. This is followed by a very stylish model featuring a blue dial and matching strap. Finally, a sportier third variation completes the line-up with a black dial on a steel bracelet.
Price: Model Not Available in UK
Frederique Constant Classics Quartz: the essence of time
With its three new “Classics Quartz” models, Frederique Constant is reaffirming its vision for timeless, affordable watches. A 40mm steel case houses a silvered dial in blue, silver or dark grey. The super sleek, understated aesthetic focuses attention on the essence of time measurement: two hands for the hours and minutes. A date indicator is also a useful feature.
In the absence of seconds hands, there is nothing to distinguish this Classics Quartz aesthetically from a mechanical watch. Indeed, there are more subtle similarities, thanks to its high level of finishing: the sunray-brushed dial, polished case and applied hour markers doubled at 12 o’clock. Finally, a topstitched nubuck-finish leather strap or three-link steel bracelet completes the look.
Prices:
Strap Models £550, Bracelet Models £650
Where to Buy
All the Frederique Constant Classics watches in this article are available to buy from an Independent Retailer through watchspecialists.com. With watches from £100-£5,000 we have a beautiful watch for every budget. All watches on our site are supplied by our network of Inspiring Independent Retailers who are all Authorised Retailers of they brands they sell. All watches come with a full warranty and upon request can be sized and gift wrapped free of charge. Shop with confidence and support the great British High Street.
