Founded in 1988, Frederique Constant is celebrating its 35th anniversary this year with a series of elegantly designed timepieces that showcase the brand’s strong suit: a range of complications powered by in-house movements. To mark the occasion, the brand has installed its very own movements in a variety of sporty and classical models, each one dressed luxuriously in gold.

Classics Tourbillon Manufacture

Although Frederique Constant is renowned for its affordable mechanical perpetual calendar wristwatches, the brand’s higher end calibers include the FC-980 automatic tourbillon movement, which debuted in 2008. Therefore, it is fitting that the brand’s anniversary celebrations highlight this movement with the Classics Tourbillon Manufacture.

The Classics Tourbillon stands out not only for its movement but also for its classically beautiful case design. The case incorporates curves throughout, from the domed bezel to the rounded flank, exuding a sense of classicism reminiscent of vintage complicated watches from Patek Philippe. The lugs, with a distinct break from the case, are also an old-school detail uncommon in modern watches.

Despite the elaborate case, the dial features a new, relatively restrained design with only thin hour markers and no minute markings. The large tourbillon cage at six o’clock takes center stage, resulting in a pure expression to showcase the dynamic rotating carriage. Notably, the watch manages to look striking despite its minimalist design, thanks to the anthracite dial that contrasts beautifully with the 18k rose gold case.

The Classics Tourbillon is priced at €25,995, which is higher than its steel counterparts, but the price is justifiable due to the 18k rose gold case and the limited edition of 150 pieces. In its price range, there are relatively few competitors for gold tourbillon watches.

Tech Specs

Classics Tourbillon Manufacture

Movement: FC-980, automatic; 38 hours power reserve
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, and tourbillon
Case: 39 x 10.99 mm; 18k rose gold; water resistant to 30 m
Strap: Leather and rubber straps
Availability: Limited edition of 150 pieces

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Highlife Worldtimer

The next watch in Frederique Constant’s anniversary lineup is the popular Highlife Worldtimer, an integrated bracelet sports watch with a useful complication and an in-house movement.

Previously introduced in steel, the Highlife Worldtimer now comes in a luxurious gold version that immediately catches the eye with its glowing sheen, accentuating the finishing of the tonneau-shaped case. The gold case is a perfect match for the elaborate dial, which exhibits a globe pattern in the middle and a radial guilloche on the date counter at six o’clock, along with the city ring and 24-hour ring for the world time complication.

However, for enthusiasts who prefer a more subtle appearance, the brand has also released a steel version with an attractive palette to compensate for the absence of a gold case. The dial is presented in a two-tone light and dark brown hue for a harmonious contrast, which is not a common combination. Delivered with a steel bracelet, as well as leather and rubber straps — all equipped with a quick-release system for easy changing — the result is a watch that is versatile for many occasions, making it a strong one-watch contender to bring on a trip.

Tech Specs

Highlife Worldtimer

Movement: FC-718 Manufacture, automatic; 38 hours power reserve
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, date, and worldtime
Case: 41 x 12.9 mm; 18k rose gold or steel; water resistant to 50 m
Strap: Leather and rubber straps for both versions; additional bracelet for the steel model
Availability: Limited edition of 35 pieces for the gold model

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Highlife Ladies Automatic Sparkling

Finally, the brand has also introduced a mid-size version of the Highlife, measuring at 34 mm and designed specifically for women. The new Highlife Ladies Automatic Sparkling distinguishes itself from the men’s version with a dial that’s textured and adorned with shiny dots, creating the impression of a starry night sky, particularly with the blue backdrop. Notably, the latest version features a lighter and more vibrant shade of blue than its earlier counterpart, echoing the Highlife’s casual-formal style.

Since the Highlife Ladies is essentially a time-only watch without any fancy complications, it is powered by a tried-and-tested Sellita movement instead of an in-house caliber. However, the brand has added a touch of luxury by dressing up the movement with a gilt rotor.

Tech Specs

Highlife Ladies Automatic Sparkling

Movement: FC-303 (SW200-1), automatic; 38 hours power reserve
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, and date
Case: 34 x 9.8 mm; steel; water resistant to 50 m
Strap: Steel bracelet with an additional white rubber strap
Availability: Limited edition of 888 pieces