Frederique Constant Classic Tourbillon Meteorite Manufacture – Celebrating 35 Years

This Frederique Constant Classic Tourbillon Meteorite Manufacture is a testament to the craftsmanship and dedication of the brand. A duo of skilled watchmakers from the Manufacture were given the job of ensuring every single piece of this timepiece was meticulously hand-finished. The intricacies of the Classic Tourbillon Meteorite Manufacture don’t end there. The Manufacture tourbillon is revealed through a cut-out at 6 o’clock, a creation Frederique Constant introduced back in 2008. With a platinum casing and meteorite dial, this is among the few of its kind available today.

Delving deeper into the mechanics, the watch’s movement stands out for its aesthetic and the sheer craftsmanship involved. All the components of the movement have been hand-finished, a first for Frederique Constant. Traditional tools were employed, with weeks spent perfecting each piece, be it bevelling with a buff file, a punch for hand-punching, a 9-micron sandpaper for charbonnage of the bridge and the base of the tourbillon cage, reproducing the aspect of the meteorite dial. Even the screws underwent a specialized black-polishing technique, giving them a unique sheen. Every component is scrutinized under the most stringent quality criteria, adhering to Haute Horlogerie standards. The in-house movement is given a rare ruthenium finish to complement the meteorite dial’s hue. Thanks to a rhodium plating, every engraving stands out, while the oscillating weight, made of brass and tungsten, ensures efficient winding due to its higher density than 18-carat gold. This attention to detail places Frederique Constant alongside renowned independent workshops, marking a significant evolution for the brand.

The meteorite dial, sourced from a rare celestial fragment found in Gibeon, Namibia, epitomizes the marriage of horology and astronomy. Crafting such a dial requires unparalleled skill due to the meteorite’s tendency to break. Yet, the outcome is worth the effort. As nature dictates, no two dials are the same, making each of the 35 watches distinct.

The 39 mm case of the Classic Tourbillon Meteorite Manufacture is platinum. Coupled with the meteorite dial, it marks the first such combination in Frederique Constant’s history. The Manufacture FC-980 tourbillon movement, a product of 2008, is visible from the back, boasting a 38-hour power reserve. A tourbillon is a testament to a watchmaker’s prowess, and Frederique Constant’s is no exception. With this 35-year celebration timepiece, Frederique Constant has brought together its rich history, innovation, and unparalleled craftsmanship.

Price & Availability:

The Frederique Constant Classic Tourbillon Meteorite Manufacture, limited to 35 pieces, is available at select Frederique Constant retailers and on the Frederique Constant e-shop.

• Price Classic Tourbillon Meteorite Manufacture: 42,995 EUR

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