Frederique Constant Proves It Still has Its Finger on the Pulse with New Classics Heart Beat Moonphase Date

While Frederique Constant has made quite a name as a true manufacture, its Heart Beat models tell the story of its beginning. A distinct cut-out in its dial shows the balance wheel as a testimony of its mechanical movement. This was an important element when the collection was first launched in 1994. While quartz ruled supreme, a renaissance of mechanical watchmaking was underway. Frederique Constant brilliantly spearheaded this development, launching its first manufacture movement in 2001, with many more to follow. While this greatly influenced the brand, it never lost sight of its heritage, as they prove with the new Classic Heart Beat Moonphase Date.

To me, this is a model in which many good things come together. This starts with the obligatory cut-out at twelve o'clock, showing the balance wheel, the signature of the Heart Beat collection. The brand complements this with a traditional moon phase display at six o'clock and a pointer date. All combined, these charming complications give the watch a lot of character. This is further underscored by the deep blue dial, which features a Clous de Paris, or hobnail pattern, in the center of the dial, as well as in a ring around the Roman numerals. While green might be one of the most trendy colors at the moment, blue hasn't lost any of its attraction either. Combined with the white-coated hands and numerals, it gives the timepiece a contemporary, almost sportive touch.

With a diameter of 40mm is the Classics Heart Beat Moonphase Date well proportioned and oozes a timeless style thanks to its double-stepped bezel. Frederique Constant kept the height at 10mm, allowing it to retain its elegant looks on the wrist. It is fitted with a caseback with a sapphire crystal insert through which caliber FC-335 is visible. This automatic movement is not one of Frederique Constant's manufacture calibers but rather a Sellita SW-200 with a module for the moon phase and pointer date. While some might find this a slight disappointment, it is good to know that Frederique Constant also pays tribute to its heritage, as the first Heart Beat models were powered by third-party movements. It also allows the brand to price the Classics Heart Beat Moonphase Date at $1,895, retaining its competitive character, another historical hallmark of Frederique Constant.

More information on the Classics Heart Beat Moonphase Date can be found on the website of Frederique Constant, here.