Skip to main content

Norqain makes Independence Skeleton smaller and smarter

Swiss watchmaker Norqain refines skeleton collection with transparent mainplate design

Norqain new slimmed skeleton promo
Norqain

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.

Recommended Videos

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.

Andrew McGrotty
Andrew is a full-time freelance writer with expertise in the luxury sector. His content is informative and always on trend.
Topics
A$AP Rocky x Ray-Ban drops a statement-making Wayfarer remix
A$AP Rocky remixes the Ray-Ban Wayfarer sunglasses
a$ap rocky wearing ray-ban sunglasses

Considered the ultimate sunglass brand, Ray-Ban isn’t afraid of innovating itself. Known for their Aviator and Wayfarer models, the sunglass brand is a household favorite, partly because its silhouettes are classics that have remained timeless throughout various generations. No matter the look or situation, you can always count on a classic pair of Ray-Bans to elevate your style and make it even cooler and chic. No stranger to style, rapper A$AP Rocky is another force that welcomes innovation at every turn. Whether it’s in his music or wardrobe, the rapper is nothing less than a trendsetter. Now, with his flair for style, A$AP Rocky has taken his distinct touch to Ray-Ban for a new iteration of the classic Wayfarer glasses. Blending the world of hip-hop and classic design, this collaboration goes beyond just another pair of sunglasses.

A$AP Rocky brings his artistic touch to Ray-Ban’s Wayfarer sunglasses

Read more
Marathon unveils special edition Canadian flag timepiece
Marathon Watch Unveils Limited-Edition ADANAC Red Maple in Honor of Canadian Flag’s 60th Anniversary
LIMITED EDITION 41MM SSNAV-D AUTO TYPE II - PILOT'S AUTOMATIC

In a grand celebration of Canadian heritage, Marathon Watch Company recently released the ADANAC Red Maple Stainless Steel Navigator Pilot’s Automatic — a limited edition timepiece paying homage to the 60th anniversary of the Canadian flag. Limited to just 500 pieces worldwide, this exclusive combines military-grade precision with patriotic design, making it an essential for collectors and proud Canadians alike.

A striking homage to Canadian pride

Read more
Killer tribute: Seiko’s Jaws Turtle honors Spielberg’s masterpiece
Seiko celebrates cinema's greatest shark with commemorative Turtle diver watch
Seiko jaws watch promopic

Seiko has unveiled a special tribute to one of cinema's most influential films with the Prospex Jaws 50th Anniversary Limited Edition, marking half a century since Steven Spielberg's masterpiece revolutionized Hollywood and invented the summer blockbuster.
The collaboration with Universal Pictures transforms Seiko's beloved "Turtle" diver into a sophisticated homage to the 1975 film that terrified audiences and changed the movie industry forever. Limited to 5,000 pieces, the commemorative timepiece (ref. SRPL81) will be available in July 2025 for $795.
First introduced in 1976 as reference 6306, just one year after Jaws terrorized audiences, Seiko's "Turtle" earned its nickname from the distinctive cushion case that resembled a turtle shell. The watch established Seiko's reputation in the dive watch space during the brand's golden era of the 1970s.
This commemorative interpretation maintains the Turtle's fundamental DNA while incorporating subtle dial graphics to honor the film. The 45mm stainless steel case features a 47.7mm lug-to-lug measurement and 13.2mm thickness, staying true to the modern Turtle's proportions.
Within its ceramic bezel insert, the dial showcases bold graphics with a gradient effect that transitions from silver to blue, representing the ocean's surface. An embossed shark silhouette lurks beneath, visible at certain angles but not immediately obvious. Like Spielberg's approach, the diver suggests the threat rather than showing it outright.
The blood-red Jaws logo at 6 o'clock, matching the red second hand tip, provides the only direct movie reference on the dial face. Positioned where it won't interfere with legibility, it maintains the watch's status as a functional tool. Chunky indices and hands coated in LumiBrite ensure visibility underwater, while the day-date display at 3 o'clock features Seiko's signature cyclops lens magnification.
Powering this commemorative piece is Seiko's 4R36 caliber, an automatic movement with hand-winding capability that's become a fan favorite in the enthusiast community. With 24 jewels, 41-hour power reserve, and hacking seconds function, it represents solid middle-tier Japanese engineering.
The real treat appears on the caseback, where a laser-engraved image of Quint's boat, the Orca, pays homage to one of cinema's most memorable characters, portrayed by Robert Shaw. Each watch features its specific edition number out of 5,000 pieces engraved on the caseback.
The watch arrives on a dark blue silicone strap and comes in a commemorative collector's box featuring the movie's iconic poster. The 200-meter water resistance and screw-down crown ensure this tribute piece can handle real diving duties.
The Seiko Prospex Jaws 50th Anniversary Limited Edition will be available through authorized Seiko dealers starting July 2025.

Read more