INTRODUCING: The Frederique Constant Classic Moonphase Date Manufacture

A struggle for many watch wearers is finding a watch that blends a classic or minimalistic motif with complications and bolder aesthetic statements.  Finding that balance is not easy for watchmakers, as many lean toward simplicity or complexity via complications.  Swiss brand Frederique Constant walks this line impressively with its newest timepiece release.  Introducing the Classic Moonphase Date Manufacture.

THE BASICS:

BRAND: Frederique Constant

Model: Classic Moonphase Date Manufacture

Case Material: Stainless Steel, Polished 18k White Gold, or Polished 18k Rose Gold depending on model selected

Case Size: 40mm

Water Resistance: 30m

Movement: FC-716 in-house caliber, Automatic

Movement Specs: Moonphase complication; power reserve of 72 hours; 26 jewels

Strap Options: Alligator leather strap with tone-on-tone stitching

THE JUICE:

We always love sunray or sunburst dials but we especially love the effect on a minimalistic dress watch.  The effect pops and adds dimension to a timepiece, whenever the light or the sun hits it just right.  Such is the case for Frederique Constant's Classic Moonphase Date Manufacture.  Available in a silver, green, or blue colorway, each dial has just the right amount of flair to give it depth without being cluttered.  In addition to the sunburst reflection, the thin circle grid surrounding the silver, diamond-cut indices (or rose gold on the S3H9 model) are subtle ways to map out the dial without overcrowding it.  Perhaps the unsung hero of the dial is the moonphase complication.  It proudly displays the moonphase in a moderate-sized subdial in the same color as the dial itself.  Surrounding the moonphase is a small date indicator around the perimeter of the moonphase.

To accommodate as many budgets and desired looks as possible, Frederique Constant is releasing the new Classic Moonphase in a neutral 40mm size.  The base model utilizes polished stainless steel, culminating in a simple rounded bezel around the dial.  Upgraded models include a polished 18k rose gold case and a polished 18k white gold case.  All timepieces feature an exhibition case back and are water-resistant to 30m-50m depending on the model selected. 

Powering the Classic Moonphase Date Manufacture is the in-house caliber FC-716.  The movement is decorated with Perlage & fan-shaped Côtes de Genève designs to look as powerful as it truly is.  The movement features a 72-hour power reserve and is based on the brand's tried-and-true FC-715 movement.

Walking the line between minimalism and complexity is a challenge for many watch brands.  With Frederique Constant's Classic Moon Phase Date Manufacture, the brand found a happy medium.  The design adds a layer of complexity without taking up valuable real estate on the dial.  As a result, this is the perfect dress watch or could even function as an everyday wear.

So how much is the new Classic Moonphase Date Manufacture?

Price for the Classic Moonphase Date Manufacture starts at $4,095 USD in steel.

Read more about the watch on the brands website here.