Maybe so, but then again the Frederique Constant brand is one that struggles in the UK, even more so since becoming part of Citizen’s empire. Yes, FC has the Swiss factor, but like Davosa, Alpina, Montblanc, Ball and many others, it doesn’t have the same fanbase looking to pick up beautiful examples pre-owned at strong money. Look I don’t make the rules, the market does…

Anyway a new chronograph has joined the Highlife range and there’s a gold plated version if you want to really splash out. We like the blue dial version in steel though, just works better visually.

Here’s the word from FC;

Frederique Constant’s Highlife collection Three models are already fitted with it. Two of steel, including a limited series of 1888 pieces, and the third in two tones of steel and pink gold gilt. Each timepiece will come with a 41 mm case with an integrated and interchangeable strap, a marker of the Highlife collection, in the same way as its dial decorated with an engraving representing a globe. As required by the collection, each watch will be delivered with an additional steel or rubber strap.

The addition of a chronograph to this flagship collection was highly anticipated. It is a leading complication of watchmaking which, contrary to a widespread idea, is also one of the most technically complex to produce, as well as probably being the most used. Frederique Constant has chosen an automatic version in line with the positioning of its Highlife: dynamic, urban and modern.

Many details have been designed to make the Highlife Chronograph Automatic subtle and particular. Its dial still bears the engraving of the Earth in its centre, the symbol of its cosmopolitan nature. As regards the chronograph counters, they have an inward curved flange, offering a deeper perspective and more accurate reading of the chronograph indications. The fine gradations of its flange allow for 1/5th second readings.

As for the back, the case is fitted with a sapphire crystal through which one can admire the FC-391 automatic movement and its chronograph module – in particular its column wheel located at 3 o’clock that fans in the know will spot easily. Developed in collaboration with La Joux-Perret this calibre is not only housed within a remarkable modern construction, but it also boasts a high degree of quality and finishes. Moreover, for each of these new models, Frederique Constant has designed an oscillating weight decorated with Côtes de Genève pink gold gilt – a decoration which is a favourite of Frederique Constant, whose Manufacture is also located in Geneva.

SPEC DETAILS

Worth noting it has 100m of depth resistance, 60 hours of reserve and all three models feature a quick release strap mechanism. The movement is a La Joux Perret collab, with column wheel actuation. That’s a decent spec in movement terms, which is why the FC chrono will retail in the UK around £3300, might be 3K for the black dial version.

More info at the FC site here.