Frederique Constant Classics Index

When you are looking for an accessible luxury timepiece, Frederique Constant has a wide range of models to consider. Frederique Constant is a Swiss watch company headquartered in Genève, Switzerland. The company, as it currently exists, was established in 1988, but has roots dating back to 1904 through Frederique Schreiner and Constant Stas. Since 1994, the company progressed in watch design and manufacturing. In fact, they have made so many advances, that they now offer their own in-house movements, including their Tourbillon movement, first produced in 2008. Even with these advances, providing luxurious and affordable timepieces remain one of their priorities. The Classics Index series demonstrates their dedication toward producing luxurious, yet affordable timepieces.

Basic Specifications of the Classics Index:

FC-303BN5B6B:

FC-303 Automatic Movement

316L Stainless Steel Case 40mm

Convex Sapphire Crystal

Stainless Steel Bracelet

Water-resistant to 5 ATM

Swiss Made

$1250USD

The packaging is exactly what many of us have come to expect from Frederique Constant – big and bold. While the Classics packaging is less extreme than some of the other watch series, it is still very nice. No automobile or plane models are included with this particular watch. The package includes an outer cardboard shell and then an interior jewelry style box. Unfortunately, the packaging has no functionality like a roll or travel case, but theelegance matches that of the watch very well.

The watchcase is composed of 316L stainless steel with a high polished finish throughout the entire case and bracelet, immediately screaming “luxurious timepiece”. The reflective nature of the case and bracelet make photography quite difficult, so bare with me. The case measures 40mm and just under 43mm including the crown. The case is a slim 10mm in thickness and only 46mm lug to lug. The lugs have an ever so slight curvature, so combining all of the case specifications, along with a lightweight of 130 grams; the watch will feel quite comfortable on a wide range of wrist sizes. I would classify the case as a simple design overall, while maintaining a certain degree of elegance, which sometimes is a result of such a simple design.