Frederique Constant and Time+Tide Unveil the Highlife Moonphase Manufacture Onyx Moon

Frederique Constant, a brand known for making luxury accessible, has joined forces with Time+Tide to launch a distinctive new timepiece, the Highlife Moonphase Manufacture Onyx Moon. This collaboration marks a significant evolution for the Highlife collection, integrating a moon phase complication and a unique design that emphasizes sleek minimalism. The watch's deep black onyx dial, devoid of traditional indices and the Highlife's signature globe motif, creates a profound and enigmatic visual appeal, setting it apart from previous models. This limited edition piece not only showcases a refined aesthetic but also houses an upgraded in-house movement, reinforcing Frederique Constant's commitment to quality and innovation at an attractive price point.

The partnership with Time+Tide, an influential global media platform and retailer, underscores the watch's contemporary relevance and broad appeal. The Highlife Moonphase Manufacture Onyx Moon is a testament to both brands' dedication to crafting timepieces that combine sophisticated mechanics with compelling design, making luxury horology more attainable for enthusiasts worldwide. Its meticulous construction, from the integrated Jubilee-style bracelet to the enhanced power reserve of the FC-716 calibre, positions it as a noteworthy release in the competitive luxury sports watch segment.

Introducing the Highlife Moonphase Manufacture Onyx Moon

Frederique Constant and Time+Tide have unveiled their latest collaboration, the Highlife Moonphase Manufacture Onyx Moon, a limited edition watch that introduces a fresh, minimalist aesthetic to the acclaimed Highlife collection. This timepiece distinguishes itself with an inky-black onyx dial, a departure from the collection's usual globe motif, and the absence of applied indices, creating a profoundly clean and mysterious appearance. The watch integrates a moon phase complication, a first for the Highlife series, powered by the refined FC-716 automatic manufacture calibre, now offering an impressive 72-hour power reserve. Its 41mm stainless steel case is paired with an integrated Jubilee-style bracelet, enhancing its luxurious yet sporty appeal. The collaboration highlights Frederique Constant's philosophy of accessible luxury, delivering high-quality craftsmanship and innovative design at a competitive price.

This exclusive release features an elegant black star-studded sky on its moon phase aperture and realistic pockmarks on the moon, contributing to the watch's dark and sophisticated mood. The meticulous attention to detail extends to the hands, which are faceted, brushed, and polished, devoid of luminescence to maintain the dial's stark beauty. The watch's construction also includes a convex sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating, a sapphire case back revealing the decorated movement, and 100-meter water resistance, ensuring durability and functionality. Furthermore, the quick-release strap system allows for versatile styling with an additional black nubuck-style leather strap and a black textured rubber strap. Limited to just 100 pieces globally, this collaboration embodies a unique blend of elegance, mystery, and horological excellence, catering to discerning watch collectors.

Technical Refinements and Exclusive Features

The Highlife Moonphase Manufacture Onyx Moon by Frederique Constant and Time+Tide showcases significant technical advancements, particularly in its movement and design elements. At its core is the automatic manufacture calibre FC-716, an enhanced in-house movement boasting a three-day (72-hour) power reserve, a substantial improvement in autonomy. This redesigned movement features a larger barrel and bridges adorned with fan-shaped Côtes de Genève, visible through an openworked rotor, highlighting the intricate mechanical artistry. The 41mm stainless steel case, with a 12.5mm thickness and 45mm lug-to-lug, is robust yet refined, offering 100-meter water resistance. A key aesthetic feature is the integrated Jubilee-style five-link steel bracelet, combining brushed and polished finishes, complemented by Frederique Constant's convenient quick-release system for easy strap changes.

Beyond its mechanical prowess, the watch's exclusive design elements contribute to its distinct character. The inky-black onyx dial is a striking canvas, deliberately simplified by removing hour markers and the brand's customary globe motif, allowing the moon phase display at 6 o'clock to stand out. This moon phase aperture features a black star-studded sky and a moon with realistic textures, alongside white date numerals with a red highlight on the 31st, adding a subtle touch of color. The minimalist approach extends to the hands, which are finished without luminescence, preserving the dial's pure and elegant appeal. This limited edition of 100 pieces, evenly distributed between Frederique Constant and Time+Tide for retail, offers a unique blend of sophisticated horology, innovative design, and exclusive collectibility, reinforcing the brands' commitment to exceptional watchmaking.