Introducing the Norqain Independence Skeleton Chronograph 42mm
NORQAIN isn’t exactly what you’d call a legacy brand. They’re young, independent, and not afraid to shake things up which is a refreshing approach in a space that can sometimes feel a little… predictable or constrained. So when they launched their first in-house flyback chronograph movement last year, we paid attention. And now, they're doubling down with two new color-forward takes on their Independence Skeleton Chrono 42mm — one in an unapologetic purple, and another in a rich jade green.
This isn’t just a new dial slapped onto an existing case. The Independence Skeleton Chrono is all about energy — bold design, serious mechanics, and a whole lot of personality. These new editions crank that up even further, and I’ve got to say, they might be the most fun yet.
The Basics
Case: Grade 5 Titanium (DLC-coated on Jade); 41.8mm diameter; 13.9mm thick; 49.8mm lug-to-lug; 22mm lug width
Crystal: Double AR-coated flat sapphire (front and back)
Movement: Automatic Manufacture Calibre; COSC-certified; Column-wheel flyback chronograph; 62-hour power reserve
Water Resistance: 100m
Strap Options: Animal-cruelty-free rubber straps in matching colors (Purple or Jade Green)
Price: $6,890 (Purple) / $6,990 (Jade, Limited to 500 pieces)
The Juice
Let’s start with the engine. Both the Purple and Jade Skeleton Chronos are powered by NORQAIN’s in-house 8K Manufacture Calibre. This is a flyback chronograph movement developed with Manufacture AMT, under the guidance of none other than Jean-Claude Biver (former CEO of TAG Heuer). It’s COSC-certified, has a 62-hour power reserve, and offers instant reset and restart functionality with the flyback feature.
But this movement isn’t just about performance: it’s got some serious visual appeal. The skeletonized layout exposes cutaway bridges shaped like mountain peaks (a nod to NORQAIN’s alpine roots), and the oscillating weight carries a stylized “double-N” logo motif that adds texture without being gimmicky. It’s one of those rare movements that is actually interesting to showcase through a sapphire caseback.
On the outside, the watches are built with Grade 5 titanium, which helps keep the weight down to just 94 grams, which is very impressive for a 42mm chrono. The Purple version is satin-finished with a sleek, raw titanium tone, while the Jade gets a stealthy DLC coating and a “LIMITED EDITION ONE of 500” engraving on the caseback. Both watches come with color-matched rubber straps that are animal-free and genuinely comfortable — not an afterthought, like you sometimes get with OEM rubber.
Design-wise, these are not shy watches — and that’s kind of the point. The Purple has this futuristic vibe, with a satin purple outer ring, skeletonized dial, and black chrono registers at 6 and 12. The Jade goes for a more moody, earthy aesthetic, but still with a contemporary edge. Rhodium-plated or gunmetal hands (depending on the model), filled with X1 Super-LumiNova, make sure legibility isn’t sacrificed for the sake of style.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been looking for a modern skeletonized chronograph with some real technical chops and a little color, these Independence Skeleton Chrono 42mm models are definitely for you. These aren’t homage pieces. They are distinct and independent, not trying to blend in. They’re purpose-built, aggressively styled, and unapologetically bold, just like the brand behind them.
At just under seven grand, these aren’t a purchase you should make lightly. But they are compelling value when you factor in the in-house flyback chrono, the titanium construction, COSC certification, and the fresh design language that feels like it was made for people who actually wear their watches. So whether you’re a seasoned collector or just looking to add something different to the mix, NORQAIN’s new drops are proof that young brands can still make serious waves in the deep end of the watch world.
Find out more about this watch here.
