Freshly unveiled by Frederique Constant, the new Classics Manchette series makes a bold return to the spotlight. The collection revives the spirit of one of the most iconic cuff watches of the 1980s. The brand has previously paid tribute to the era with the original Manchette, first introduced in the mid-2000s. Now, Frederique Constant is expanding the legacy with four new references, each offering a modern reinterpretation of the retro model.
There is one jewel-set dial edition (Ref. FC-200PVD1MC6B), two mineral dial options in malachite (Ref. FC-200MA1MC6B) or onyx (Ref. FC-200ONB1MC6B), and a fourth version featuring a familiar, square-set Art Deco-style dial (Ref. FC-200WR1MC6B). The series joins the Classics collection, a broad range of designs each connected by their use of historical inspirations executed through a modern Frederique Constant lens.
(Ref. FC-200ONB1MC6B)
Glam rock in inspiration and positioning, by its look the design capitalizes upon the rising interest in so-called ‘geezer’ watches, typically described as eccentric, obscure, and often vintage watches. The watches are typically dressier in form but worn in a more versatile way— eschewing practicality in favour of aesthetic subversions, such as wearing a cuff watch on the wrist of a glam rocker. Numerous brands have produced re-editions and inspired models channelling the intrigue, notably Piaget in their Polo 79 in the luxury realm and French tool watch brand Serica in their Parade in the entry-level space.
On the wrist, the new watch measures 25.7mm by 20.0mm in an uncommon cuff design. The look is executed using a two-part construction but appears fluidly integrated, especially in the context of its bracelet, which features a 7-link Clous de Paris design that extends the style seen on the case, proper. A square polished bezel surrounds the dial, with the squares of Clous de Paris throughout featuring polished and chamfered edges with brushed tops. A subtle crown is found on the right side of the case, its polished surface sitting flush against the top side of the case.
The case of the watch is the same for the four different models, with the dial showcasing the variety available in the look. The jewelled edition showcases 158 diamonds (totalling 0.23 carats), each evenly distributed across the square surface and broken up only by some smart use of polishing; the malachite and onyx editions make use of their distinct green and deep black hues, respectively; and the last edition features a simpler matte dial that channels classic Art Deco styling in the use of squared, black Roman numerals and other details. Each of the editions is equipped with a simple set of polished stick hands sans a seconds counter, with straightforward Frederique Constant signage towards the top of the display.
Powering the Classics Manchette series is the Frederique Constant FC-200 calibre, an in-house produced quartz movement capable of a 60-month battery life. The movement is the right choice for the model, with it being driven significantly more by aesthetics than mechanics, letting the watch serve as a grab-and-go wearer for more experimental wear.
The Roman and diamond-accented editions of the Frederique Constant Classics Manchette are available now, with pricing marked at Rs. 1,16,000 (approx.) and Rs. 3,67,000 (approx.), respectively. The stone dial editions will be available in June, with pricing marked at Rs. 1,62,000 (approx.)
This article first appeared in WatchTime.com
Images: Courtesy brands
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