Glam and “Geezer:” Meet the Frederique Constant Classics Manchette
Freshly launched from Frederique Constant, the Geneva-based manufacture now introduces the new Classics Manchette series. Positioned as an ode to glam rock, the watch works to recall “one of the defining accessories of the Eighties,” namely the cuff watch. Frederique Constant, which was founded in 1988, was arguably born in this era— or at least at its tail-end— having previously channeled the period in the initial introduction of the original Manchette in the mid-2000s.
The new series encompasses four total watches, including one jewel-set dial edition, two mineral dial options in malachite or onyx, and a fourth version featuring a familiar, square-set Art Deco style dial. 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.
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 way that’s more versatile— eschewing practicality in favor of aesthetic subversion, such as wearing a cuff watch on the wrist of a glam rocker. Numerous brands have produced re-editions and inspired models channeling 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 own 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 jeweled edition showcases 158 diamonds (totaling 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 are 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 caliber, 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 $1,395 and $4,295, respectively. The stone dial editions will be available in June, with pricing marked at $1,895.
To learn more, visit Frederique Constant, here.
