Frederique Constant Updates the Classics Premiere Line with New Dials and a New Bracelet

In some ways, Frederique Constant remains an outlier in a market that thrives on hype. Traditionally, the Swiss brand has built somewhat of a reputation as being a tortoise – slow and steady, releasing classic styles – versus the hares who seemed more concerned about virality than crafting a timeless piece. Because of this, even the smallest changes to their collections can raise the proverbial eyebrow and gain a little attention. Case in point: the newest in their Classics Premiere line-up.

During Geneva Watch Days, it was a series of small adjustments that caught our attention. Most notably, the release of two new colors (blue and salmon – previously only a EU exclusive), the Art Deco-inspired Arabic numerals, and the release of a new steel bracelet. Each of these small components ultimately make an otherwise standard watch within the Frederique Constant line-up feel a little refreshed among its peers.

For those unfamiliar with the Classics Premiere collection, it’s a smaller series, coming in at just 38.5mm (or a “delicate” size, as Frederique Constant’s marketing team puts it – isn’t that cute?). Within that petit (or would it be klein? I never know in Switzerland) stainless steel case houses a FC-301 automatic caliber (base LJPG100), giving the wearer an impressive 68-hour power reserve. 

Regarding the design of this particular pair, the new use of Breguet style numerals complements the overall vintage charm of the Classics Premiere. This is further hammered home by the pomme hands, which float above a railtrack minute circle (a further nod to the Art Deco movement). Most impressive, I find, is the dial itself, which has a grained matte finish on the central section and a circular sunray finish on the surrounding raised hour circle. 

Finally, as mentioned, the bracelet is new as well, bringing a decidedly urban touch with its flexible five-link design. True to Frederique Constant’s attention to detail, two of the links are mirror-polished, nestled seamlessly among the others. Again, we see here an interplay of finishes, playing with the light of the available real estate without it feeling showy.

Both references will be made available this month with a retail price of $2,395. Frederique Constant