Frederique Constant Manufacture Moonphase Watch For Fratello
As the very first model to grace the new Fratello store, the Frederique Constant Manufacture Moonphase hits the market as a standard-bearer of things to come. Utilizing an in-house movement with an attractive moonphase function, it debuts as an affordable option for those seeking extra complications in a wearable watch.
Being the first is never easy. The temptation to create noise through superfluous additions and a ground-shaking aesthetic is ever-present. But restraint — especially when it comes to limited editions — is wise. By choosing a tried and true model and making tasteful tweaks, the designers have bolstered this model’s long-term appeal.
Case
It is harder than it should be to find well-designed, mechanically interesting movements in stainless steel cases. The 42mm case of the Frederique Constant Manufacture Moonphase is classically styled and presented in modern proportions. Its polished finish gives the watch a dressy vibe, while its thick bezel and curved case flanks boost its casual credentials. The watch features sapphire crystals on the front and back. A water resistance rating of 50 meters suits the style of a watch that is unlikely to see much pool time.
Dial
The Frederique Constant Manufacture Moonphase watch is ordinarily available with either a black or a blue visage. Here, we see a distinctive gray dial. Subtlety is the name of the game, with the gray dial providing a clean a clear base for the moonphase complication to come to the fore. It marries well with the polished steel case, creating a crisp congruity from edge-to-edge. The balanced dial features two sub-dials along its horizontal axis and elongated Roman numerals. The hands are a delicate leaf shape. Minimal dial printing allows the sub-dials adequate space to breathe.
Movement
Turning over the watch reveals the in-house caliber. The FC-712 caliber is based on the brand’s FC-700 engine and decorated with perlée and circular waves. The balance wheel is held in place by a bridge sandwiched between the top bridge and mainplate. Being recessed and centralized around the 6 o’clock position gives the movement a pleasing vertical symmetry. The rose gold-plated rotor weight plays its part in the engaging case back visual thanks to a skeletonized aperture that ensures the balance is always, at least in part, visible. Additionally, blued screws and sharp, gilded engravings complete the package.
Strap
Dark blue crocodile leather establishes a chromatic link between the moonphase complication and the strap. A fold-over buckle based on the brand’s logo fastens the strap. Contrasting white stitching softens the overall appearance on the wrist. Import laws vary around the world regarding the shipping of leather, so contact the team at [email protected] for more information.
The Frederique Constant Manufacture Moonphase is limited to just 29 pieces. Each piece is individually numbered (XX/29), and it is available exclusively on the Fratello shop. It is a versatile and timeless watch, priced at €2,595 (including VAT and including insured shipping). To learn more about Frederique Constant, visit the brand’s official page here. And to see the watch in the Fratello shop, please follow this link.
