INTRODUCING: The Frederique Constant Highlife Tourbillion Perpetual Calendar Manufacture

Based in Geneva, Frederique Constant have been designing and manufacturing their fantastic watches for 35 years. Over this time, they have made a name for themselves as they provide excellent quality and have an offering for every price point. This really sets them apart from the rest. Launched in 1999, their Highlife collection is an exhibition of this manufacture’s innovative, dynamic, and skillful mastery of watchmaking. Fiercely proud of their independence as a watchmaker, Frederique Constant have been leading the way for smaller brands.

The Basics:

Brand: Frederique Constant

Model: Highlife Tourbillion Perpetual Calendar Manufacture

Case Material: 18kt Rose Gold

Case Size: 41mm

Water Resistance: 30m

Movement: FC-975

Movement Specs: Hours, Minutes, Date, Day, Month, Leap Year, 60-second Tourbillion, 38-hour power-reserve and automatic winding

Strap Options: Blue alligator leather and navy rubber straps.


The Juice:

The Highlife collection from Frederique Constant is their signature do-it all platform. Ranging from capable sports watches and certified chronometers to ultra-complicated luxury pieces it can do it all. The Tourbillion Perpetual Calendar is a first for this family. Limited to a run of 35 pieces, this piece has so much to offer, so let’s get straight into it…

By far the most striking element of this piece is the dial. The balance and symmetry are just mesmerising. The deep blue hue gives off a regal feel to it, which pairs beautifully with the sharp and modern indices that punctuate it. The sub-dials are incredibly legible and clear, something that is often overlooked by many perpetual calendar designs. The Tourbillion is nestled comfortably at the 6 o’clock position, showing off the complex assembly behind the dial.

The 18kt Rose gold case is perfectly proportioned. The different finishes show just how well Frederique Constant manufacture their pieces as well as how much consideration goes into their design. The sapphire case-back allows us to get a proper look at the beautiful FC-975 tourbillion movement. The lines of the case streamline into the integrated straps beautifully, which is to be expected from a watch of this calibre, but nonetheless very much appreciated.

The options are limited to either a blue alligator leather strap or a navy-blue rubber strap. Both compliment the piece, contrasting nicely with the rose gold, and offer a bit versatility for the wearer: it can easily be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Some people might grumble about the restrained choice, but this piece is about more than just the straps.

The FC-975 Tourbillion Perpetual Calendar movement is another one of Frederique Constant’s fabulous manufacture calibres. Part of a collection of 31 different designs that they have been pioneering since 1988, these movements are getting more and more impressive technically and visually.

All in all, the Frederique Constant Highlife Tourbillion Perpetual Calendar is splendid display of horological engineering, craftsmanship, and passion. This watch feels like the amalgamation of 35 years of experience and innovation, and it simply fantastic.

how much does the Frederique Constant Highlife Tourbillion Perpetual Calendar Manufacture cost?

If owning one of the 35 Frédérique Constant Highlife Tourbillion Perpetual Calendar takes your fancy, you will have to set aside $48,995.