Frédérique Constant Updates the Slimline Moonphase Manufacture with New Display and Case

As we already established in several previous articles, Frédérique Constant watches have several impressive qualities. In fact, they allow collectors with a smaller budget access to a luxurious and elegant design, classical complications and even manufacture movements (as we showed you in our video report). This is what the brand calls “accessible luxury”, and with this in mind, Frédérique Constant has decided to update one of its best-sellers, the discreet and elegant Slimline Moonphase Manufacture, with a new display – all of that being available in a relatively small case.

Prior to this 2017 update, the Frédérique Constant Slimline Moonphase Manufacture was this watch – see our hands-on review here. A nice watch, with elegant design, relatively thin case, classical codes, and a display of the moon-phase positioned at 6 on the dial and circled by an indication of the date. This proposition was very much in the “Geneva codes” (as seen in various prestigious Maisons), and as balanced as it was, it was probably not the most effective solution in terms of legibility. In order to offer something slightly different than the masses and to have an improved readability of both indications, Frédérique Constant has decided to update the Slimline Moonphase Manufacture for 2017.

On the newest version of the Slimline Moonphase Manufacture, the choice has been made to split the moon-phase and date into two individual counters, one giving echo to the other. The date is positioned at 9 and the moon, in a classically shaped semi-circular window, sits at 3. Both displays are slightly recessed and have a concentric pattern to separate them from the rest of the dial. The new display also means new technical solutions, and the new Slimline Moonphase Manufacture features an update of the in-house calibre, here reference FC-702.

In short, the base movement is shared with most of the watches under the “Manufacture” range, meaning you get a 4Hz automatic calibre with central rotor, 42-hour power reserve and overall a nice decoration (with circular Geneva stripes, perlage, chamfering and blued screws). There’s also an added benefit, as all the indications can be adjusted via the crown (including the date and the age of the moon), meaning that there are no recessed pushers to be seen on the case.

The Frédérique Constant Slimline Moonphase Manufacture 2017 version is, as of now, available in a case measuring 38.8mm – while the one we reviewed was 42mm in diameter. While some prefer watches with a stronger presence, we believe here that such an elegant display and a classically designed case will benefit from a slightly smaller case. Three versions will be available: silver dial with steel case, silver dial with pink gold-plated case and black dial with pink gold-plated case. On all of them, the leaf-shaped hands and applied indexes match the colour of the case, and the elegant design is complemented by a dark brown or black alligator strap.

The Frédérique Constant Slimline Moonphase Manufacture 2017 version will be priced at 2,695 CHF/Euro (steel version) or 2,995 CHF/Euro (pink gold-plated versions). More details on frederiqueconstant.com.

Technical Specifications – Frédérique Constant Slimline Moonphase Manufacture

• Case: 38.8mm diameter – stainless steel 3-parts case (gold-plated for some versions) – sapphire crystal on both faces – 30m water resistant
• Movement: FC-702 Manufacture calibre – automatic – 26 jewels – 42 hours power reserve – 28,800 alt/h – Hours, minutes, date, moon phase
• Strap: Dark brown or black alligator strap – folding clasp
• Reference: FC-702S3S6 (Steel, silver dial) – FC-702G3S4 (Rose gold plated, black dial) – FC-702V3S4 (rose gold plated, silver dial)
• Price: 2,695 CHF/Euro (steel) or 2,995 CHF/Euro (pink gold-plated)