Frederique Constant is breathing new life into an historically significant model line for the brand. The ‘Highlife’ range was first introduced 20 years ago, and in 2020 at watches and wonders, Frederique Constant took the highlife to new heights. Here is your first look at the Frederique Constant Highlife Perpetual calendar manufacture.
Three different models of the brands new perpetual calendar timepiece are available for purchase. Firstly, a two-tone steel and rose gold plated offering combines a stainless steel outer case with an elegant plated rose gold bezel. The piece features the ranges signature dial decoration, a globular pattern of latitude and longitudinal lines, here stamped into a clean white dial. The dial is adorned with similarly rose gold plated hands and hour markers, further adding to the luxurious feel of the watch. This model will be supplied with a two-tone bracelet and an additional textured black rubber strap, which itself features a rose gold plated buckle.
There are two stainless steel variations of the watch available, the first being a full bracelet offering with a deep blue dial. The second, a silver dial available on a black calf leather strap. Again, both offerings come with a black rubber strap included as part of the purchase package.
The dial of the watches features a fantastic amount of complication without the common dilemma of appearing cluttered and unsightly. With a tri register design, Frederique constant are able to continually display the time, day, date, month and leap year cycle. The dial also cleanly and clearly includes a moon phase indication at 6 o’clock. Discreet controllers placed in the middle of the case make it possible, as with the crown, to adjust all the indications.
In order to achieve this level of complication, the brand uses their manufacture calibre FC-775 automatic movement. The movement itself is moderately decorated with varying levels of Perlage and circular Côtes de Genève, but the draw card here is not the decoration, it’s the functionality.
The perpetual calendar complication is one of the most complex achievements in all of watchmaking. Brand like Patek Phillipe and A Lange and Sohne, stake their reputations on their perpetual calendar watches. This level of complication is renowned for being extremely expensive and notoriously difficult to execute. With the new Highlife perpetual, Frederique Constant are able to offer the complication, in an attractive and modern aesthetic for as little as $13,466AUD.
The watch itself measures 41mm in diameter and is rated up to 50 metres of water resistance. All three models will feature quick change bracelets and straps, allowing a high level of customisation for the wearer.
The all new Frederique Constant Highlife Perpetual calendar is available for purchase now.’
