Skip to main content

Frederique Constant unveils a sleek new Worldtimer Manufacture

New WorldTimer Manufacture has a smaller and compact casing

Frederique Constant x Watch Angels WorldTimer Manufacture
Frederique Constant x Watch Angels WorldTimer Manufacture Watch Angels / Watch Angels

Frederique Constant gave the Worldtimer Manufacture a beautiful makeover. The Frederique Constant x Watch Angels WorldTimer Manufacture is a limited-edition collaboration with Watch Angels, taking everything enthusiasts love about the Classic Worldtimer Manufacture and giving it a new size and identity.

The new model has been downscaled into a smaller casing, so the measurements are smaller. It was rolled out with a 40mm casing compared to the original 42mm model—something that can comfortably fit different wrist sizes.

Recommended Videos

And thanks to the polished finish, this case looks quite stunning and reflects light in an interesting manner. The metallic luster accentuates the blue dial, which comes with white denotations.

The previous model, from 2012, had a date window, but Frederique Constant got rid of that feature. The brand went for a minimalistic look. While the original version was rolled out with a silver world map, the new watch has a less-detailed dial that is quite simple.

Speaking of which, each section has a different type of finish. For instance, the center of the dial is highlighted by a sunburst finish that adds to the whole look.

Designed to take the horological performance to the next level, the 2025 edition runs on the Caliber FC-718, which is composed of 139 components. It’s a movement that delivers a 38-hour power reserve—enough energy to last for two days. It also offers insight into 24 time zones.

Only 718 pieces of the Frederique Constant x Watch Angels WorldTimer Manufacture will be launched into the market, and each will retail at $5,000.

Nathan S.R
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Nathan has devoted his life to collecting watches, studying horology, reviewing watches, and writing about timepieces. As a…
Topics
Norqain makes Independence Skeleton smaller and smarter
Swiss watchmaker Norqain refines skeleton collection with transparent mainplate design
Norqain new slimmed skeleton promo

Norqain has added two new 40mm models to its Independence Skeleton collection, offering slimmer, more refined options than the earlier 42mm watches. The updated timepieces feature a transparent mainplate design that enhances visual depth while showcasing the brand's commitment to innovative skeleton watchmaking.
The first model features a classic stainless steel case with brushed, polished, and sandblasted surfaces, accented by subtle turquoise details. The second adopts a bolder aesthetic with a black DLC-coated case, khaki rubber strap, and vibrant orange accents, creating a stealthier and sportier appearance.
Both versions are powered by the Norqain Caliber NB08S, a mechanical automatic skeleton movement that has earned COSC chronometer certification. This high-performance movement features 26 rubies and a personalized oscillating weight bearing the brand's logo. It offers a 41-hour power reserve, with the balance frequency operating at 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz), ensuring precise timekeeping.
The standout feature of these new models is the transparent mainplate positioned above the anthracite openworked dial. This innovative design element adds visual depth while housing Norqain's logo, marking a significant improvement from the previous 42mm versions where the logo was printed on the sapphire crystal.
The dials incorporate faceted black-plated indexes and diamond-cut hands filled with white X1 Super-LumiNova for optimal visibility in low-light conditions. The second hand's tip comes in turquoise on the steel version and orange on the DLC model, providing distinctive color coordination.
Measuring 40mm in diameter and 12.05mm thick, both models offer 100-meter water resistance and feature double anti-reflective, scratch-proof sapphire crystals on the front and back. The reduced case size makes these watches more wearable while maintaining the collection's bold skeleton aesthetic.
The steel version is priced at $4,490 on a rubber strap, with the matching steel bracelet option increasing the price to $4,790. The DLC-coated model comes with a choice of black or khaki rubber strap, both priced at $4,690.
These new Independence Skeleton models represent Norqain's evolution in skeleton watch design, combining traditional Swiss watchmaking excellence with contemporary aesthetics. The transparent mainplate innovation demonstrates the brand's commitment to advancing skeleton watch construction while preserving the visual drama that defines the collection.

Read more
The art of timeless design: Why Urban Jürgensen is one to watch
How Urban Jürgensen redefined haute horlogerie with its remarkable comeback
Urban Jurgensen has returned to the forefront of horology

The revival of historic watchmaker brand Urban Jürgensen has been a marvel to witness as it once teetered on the brink of obscurity. Today, UJ has re-emerged as a benchmark in the industry, working under the direction of a visionary new leader. Founded in 1773, the brand faced the possibility of extinction in the late 20th century before being revitalized by a group of watchmaking purists. Currently, Urban Jürgensen is getting rave reviews for blending centuries of craftsmanship with modern innovation — proving that true luxury is timeless.

Tradition meets state-of-the-art innovation

Read more
Tiffany & Co. revives legendary Atlas watch collection
Tiffany & Co. has officially relaunched its iconic Atlas® watches
the Atlas watches feature graphic Roman numerals and streamlined silhouettes

To the surprise of absolutely no one, Tiffany & Co. has resuscitated its storied Atlas collection, reimagining the legendary Roman numeral motif for today's discerning watch collectors. Released originally in the 1990s and inspired by the iconic Atlas clock at Tiffany's Fifth Avenue flagship, these timepieces bring together timeless elegance and contemporary sophistication.

Precision craftsmanship, unmistakable style

Read more