The beloved Frederique Constant Worldtimer has just undergone a noteworthy transformation, now sporting a more compact design that aligns with feedback from the watch community.
This updated version omits the date function, offering a fresh take on the original concept.
Collaborative Innovation
First introduced in 2012, the Frederique Constant Classics Worldtimer Manufacture quickly gained traction as a favorite among enthusiasts, thanks to its user-friendly approach to the worldtimer complication.
Over the years, collectors have seen a variety of limited editions in different materials and colors, many of which are now discontinued.
Despite its longstanding appeal, even the most admired designs can benefit from a touch of innovation.
This presented a prime opportunity for Watch Angels, a brand rooted in community and crowdfunding, to elevate this cherished timepiece.
The collaboration has resulted in a sleek new model: the Watch Angels x Frederique Constant Worldtimer Manufacture.
This watch features a slightly smaller case, measuring just 40.5mm in diameter, while the thickness has modestly increased to 13.4mm from the previous 12.15mm.
Crafted from three components of stainless steel and offering water resistance up to 50 meters, it’s topped with a striking convex sapphire crystal.
One look at the engraved, screw-down case back, and you’ll be treated to a view of the elegant FC-718 calibre within.
Design Enhancements
The blend of brushed and polished finishes gives the case a sophisticated look, particularly on the bezel, while the brushed lugs and central section create a beautiful contrast.
The crown at 3 o’clock has been revamped from its traditional onion shape to a more modern flat-top design, prominently displaying the brand’s insignia.
This change not only enhances the watch’s aesthetic but also improves ease of use for winding, setting the time, and adjusting the city display.
In addition to the refined case, the watch boasts a stunning blue dial that enriches its overall readability.
The absence of the date subdial at 6 o’clock has simplified the dial, making it easier to identify key locations on the inclined 24-time-zone disk, which now features vivid red GMT indications.
This disk is elegantly split into day and night sections, each marked by a golden sun and a silver moon motif, enhancing both function and form.
Movement and Exclusivity
At the heart of the dial lies a captivating sunburst finish, surrounded by a circular-grained chapter ring.
Applied rhodium hour markers and a clearly printed minute track strike a lovely balance between visual charm and readability.
The meticulously polished rhodium hands mirror the shapes of the hour markers, creating a sense of unity throughout the design.
Beneath the surface, this timepiece houses the same FC-718 automatic movement found in the higher-end versions of the Frederique Constant Worldtimer.
Operating at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour, this calibre boasts a power reserve of 38 hours and features exquisite decorations like Côtes de Genève and perlage, all of which can be admired through the transparent case back.
The Watch Angels x Frederique Constant Worldtimer Manufacture is finished off with a black, handcrafted calf leather strap, secured by a folding buckle.
With only 718 pieces available, this exclusive timepiece can be secured through a subscription at watchangels.ch, priced at CHF 4,490.
Ultimately, whether you prefer this newly designed Worldtimer over the original Frederique Constant Classics Worldtimer Manufacture comes down to personal taste.
With its streamlined aesthetics, the revamped model may appeal to modern sensibilities, while traditionalists might still lean towards the classic look of its predecessor.
Source: Monochrome-watches.com