The chronograph joins Frederique Constant’s Highlife collection
An emblematic complication of watchmaking, Frederique Constant’s Highlife collection now includes a chronograph movement. Three models are being introduced globally, one of which will be available in the US. The timepiece comes on a 41mm case with an integrated and interchangeable bracelet, a key feature of the Highlife collection, along with its dial decorated with a globe. Additionally, the new chronograph will be delivered with an additional steel bracelet and rubber strap.
Created in 1999 and relaunched in 2020, the Highlife collection has marked Frederique Constant’s story. It embodies the values which have contributed to the watchmaker’s success: a design faithful to the standards of fine Swiss watchmaking, with high-quality finishes and careful attention for a fair price, making Swiss Made luxury accessible to as many people as possible.
The addition of a chronograph to this flagship collection was highly anticipated. It is a leading complication of watchmaking which, contrary to a widespread idea, is also one of the most technically complex to produce, as well as probably being the most used. Frederique Constant has chosen an automatic version in line with the positioning of its Highlife collection: dynamic, urban and modern.
Pure Highlife DNA
The Highlife Chronograph features the same 41 mm stainless steel case as other styles in the collection. Two push buttons appear at 2 and 4 o’clock for the start / stop of the chronograph and its reset to zero. Their contour has been slightly inclined by a few degrees to fit harmoniously with the contour of the case.
The dial has a compax chronograph, with a small second hand at 9 o’clock, a 30-mn counter at 3 o’clock and a 12-hour counter at 6 o’clock balancing the watchmaker’s “Frédérique Constant, Genève” signature at midday. Three central hand-polished hands complete the timepiece: two fluorescent hands for the hours and minutes and a central chronograph seconds hand. It is also fitted with a second complication, the date, discreetly housed in a dedicated window between 4 and 5 o’clock.
A very intricate chronograph
Many details have been designed to make the Highlife Chronograph Automatic subtle and unique. Its dial still bears the engraving of the Earth in its center, the symbol of its cosmopolitan nature. As regards the chronograph counters, they have an inward curved flange, offering a deeper perspective and more accurate reading of the chronograph indications. The fine gradations of its flange allow for 1/5th second readings.
As for the back, the case is fitted with a sapphire crystal through which one can admire the FC-391 automatic movement and its chronograph module – in particular its column wheel located at 3 o’clock that connoisseurs will spot easily. Developed in collaboration with La Joux-Perret this caliber is not only housed within a remarkable modern construction, but it also boasts a high degree of quality and finishes. It features a rose-gold plated oscillating weight decorated with Côtes de Genève – a favorite of the brand, whose Manufacture is also located in Geneva. This rotor winds the automatic movement, beating at a frequency of 28,800 alt./h and guaranteeing 60 hours of power reserve. Each timepiece is engraved with the words “Highlife Chronograph” and its associated water resistance to 10 ATM, i.e. 100 meters.
Limited to 1888 pieces and with two additional straps, it will thus be possible to alternate between a navy blue calfskin strap in a Nubuck finish, a rubber of the same color, or a three-link bracelet of polished and satin-finish steel. Three different options which will highlight, according to each person’s preference, either the white dial or the blue counters and the flange of this rare collector’s item, of which each timepiece will be individually numbered.
