~The next generation of an iconic timepiece~
Frederique Constant launched the first models in the Highlife collection over 22 years ago. Their unique design was characterised by the special strap built into the case. For 2022, the Brand has updated the ingenious concept and reinvigorated the collection by adding the Highlife Automatic COSC. All still feature the system which makes it possible to switch between a leather, crococalf suede or rubber strap, alternating from classic to sporty on a whim!
Frederique Constant launched the first models in the Highlife collection with the Triple Time series. One year later, the collection was supplemented by a tourbillon and the Brand’s emblematic Heart Beat aperture. On proving a huge hit, the collection was quickly expanded and diversified, notably by integrating a perpetual calendar, a chronograph and Manufacture movement, as well as designs for women.
Thanks to its wide range of qualities, its exclusive design would appeal to men and women of all ages. Consisting of a steel case allowing for a steel bracelet or a leather strap to be added, it represented a real aesthetic and practical breakthrough. An ingenious idea from an entirely independent manufacture that would help the Highlife collection stand out on account of its versatility.
The return of an original must-have design
Bolstered by these advances, the Highlife collection is now making its comeback. Two years of development were needed to give birth to the Highlife Automatic COSC. Faithful to the original collection from 1999 and still designed according to Frederique Constant’s same key values, the new Highlife collection shares certain fundamental characteristics in being finely crafted, Swiss Made, affordable and engineered for everyday use.
They have the same 41 mm case. True to the Brand’s DNA, they present a modern yet elegant, or sport chic appearance, and have been designed for the next generation of collectors eager to embrace luxury Swiss Made timepieces.
A new case with an integrated interchangeable bracelet
Like the original inspiration, the Highlife 2022 collection has an integrated bracelet. The lack of horns allows for greater flexibility and helps the watch sit naturally on the wrist. The integrated design is infinitely more complicated to conceive than any strap with horns. The process requires perfect continuity between the lines of the case and the links, a smooth, regular but gradual transition to the clasp and natural fluidity that should be almost imperceptible.
Not only has Frederique Constant managed to achieve this natural continuity, but the integrated system allows the wearer to change the bracelet with ease. With no need for any tools or accessories, you can change the look of your watch just by pressing. From a leather, crococalf suede or rubber strap, the Highlife can be restyled in seconds.
To switch between a sporty, urban, or stylish look, all you need to do is press on the two push-pins at the end of the bracelet or the strap to disconnect it from the case and, just as easily, click a new one into place. Frederique Constant supplies the new Highlife model with one alternatives at no additional cost. A leather strap is fitted as standard and accompanied by a second rubber strap. A set of three additional crococalf suede straps in brown, blue and black can also be purchased separately.
The symbol of the Earth, a meaningful and unifying decoration
All the new models in the Highlife collection have a decorated dial. In the interests of unifying the collection, each one features the same globe motif. Symbolising the Earth, the harmony, the perfection of the circle, it is also the icon of a new generation that shares the same ideal for saving the planet, sustainable and sensible living. An ethic in perfect harmony with that of Frederique Constant, which has always championed quality, reliable watches that are both transferable and accessible to as many people as possible. So as to capture this life with all its subtleties, the sapphire crystals on the dial side in the new Highlife collection benefit from an anti-reflective treatment on both sides.
Highlife Automatic COSC
For chronometric purists
Rarely are watches certified by the COSC (Official Swiss Chronometer Testing Institute). This certificate is only issued to pieces that can guarantee perfect isochronism over a given time and at given positions – in effect, their ability to tell the time correctly, consistently and precisely, within the strict limits enforced by an ISO standard. The COSC is an independent Swiss organisation that only issues its chronometer certificates to these pieces after the watches have undergone numerous tests over several days.
COSC certified pieces form an elite, a class of their own, intended for collectors for whom “Swiss precision” is an everyday necessity. The Highlife Automatic COSC was developed especially for them.
This first COSC-certified watch from Frederique Constant was inspired by the original collection from 1999. Its movements already contained the highest quality components, meeting all the precision criteria for official Swiss chronometer certification. Now it is a fact.
The new Highlife Automatic COSC range brings together the best of the two other models with the three sleek hands of the Heart Beat and the date from the Perpetual Calendar Manufacture. This timepiece has been designed for everyday use and comes in two-tone, steel/blue dial and black leather/white dial versions. A fourth original creation complements this trio: a variation with a rose gold-plated case and a black dial mounted on a brown leather strap, complete with a rubber strap in the same shade. This model contrasts a traditional rose gold-plated case on a leather strap against a modern and bold monochrome dial, on which you can make out the globe decoration signature for the new Highlife collection.
The Highlife Automatic COSC is powered by the FC-310 caliber, which vibrates at 28,800 vph. Housed within 41 mm diameter casing, it can be admired through the sapphire crystal caseback.
A new chapter
The new Highlife collection sees Frederique Constant continue its primary mission. One that remains unchanged: bringing quality, reliable timepieces accessible to as many people as possible. With its completely redesigned case, the Highlife collection is modern and dynamic. Protected by a sapphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment on both sides, the globe decoration on each model reflects the desire of new collectors for responsible and sustainable watchmaking. Interchangeable straps make it exceptionally versatile, allowing each new Highlife to be urban, stylish or sporty. Valuable assets that open the doors of the 21st century.
