Frederique Constant has introduced the Classics Moneta Handwinding, the first mechanical watch in its Classics Moneta collection. The limited edition of 999 pieces pairs a hand-wound movement with a vintage-inspired design and is priced at under €2,000.
A collection named after a coin
Since its launch in 2024, the Classics Moneta has become one of the brand’s most recognisable designs. Its signature is the inner rehaut, the ring between the dial and the crystal, which is fluted like the edge of a coin. That detail gives the collection its name and brings a traditional watchmaking flourish to an unexpected part of the case.
The movement
The new 38.5 mm watch is powered by a hand-wound calibre made by La Joux-Perret in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, and customised for Frederique Constant. Both companies belong to the Citizen Group. The movement beats at 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz) and offers a 63-hour power reserve.
Through the sapphire case back, the movement shows Côtes de Genève decoration and the coat of arms the brand has used since 1988. Choosing a hand-wound calibre means there is no rotor to hide the finishing, and it also keeps the case slim, in keeping with the watch’s 1950s character.
The dial and strap
The dial moves from a smoked salmon centre to deep black at the edges, which makes the polished, applied hour markers easy to read. Two dauphine hands and a small seconds display at 6 o’clock follow the design codes of mid-century watchmaking. The watch is fitted with a black alligator leather strap with a small-scale pattern for a softer, patinated look.
Frederique Constant has also brought solar power to the collection with the Classics Moneta Solarmetre.
Disclaimer: The image used in this article has been provided to The Daily Brunch by Frederique Constant.
