Frederique Constant Manufacture Classic Perpetual Calendar automatic blue dial leather strap 40 mm

An exceptional complication made accessible

The perpetual calendar is one of the most prestigious complications in haute horlogerie. A true technical challenge, it must be able to correctly indicate the day, date, and month, accounting for months of 30 and 31 days as well as leap years, and doing so until the year 2100 without any manual adjustment. Long reserved for a select group of manufactures and offered at prices inaccessible to most, this complication has become, thanks to Frédérique Constant, a symbol of thoughtful accessibility.

In 2016, the Geneva-based maison unveiled its first Manufacture perpetual calendar, immediately hailed as the most affordable on the watchmaking market. This was a major milestone for the independent brand founded in 1988, which has always claimed its mission: “Let more people enjoy luxury timepieces.” This model met with great success among seasoned collectors as well as curious enthusiasts, drawn by the combination of mechanical prestige and controlled pricing.

A timeless design with a contemporary touch

Nearly ten years later, Frédérique Constant has evolved its icon with a new 40 mm “Classic” case, featuring more fluid and elegant lines. Reference FC-776N3H6 adopts this contemporary aesthetic: a polished stainless steel case, just 12.1 mm thick, refined lugs for greater comfort, and an onion-shaped crown that recalls traditional watchmaking. Slightly domed sapphire crystals on both the front and back add depth and luminosity, while highlighting the dress-watch character of the piece.

The dial here is presented in a rich, deep sunray blue, giving the watch a more modern and captivating character. Its layout remains faithful to the balanced architecture of the perpetual calendar:

• Day at 9 o’clock,
• Date at 3 o’clock,
• Month and leap year at 12 o’clock,
• Moon phase at 6 o’clock.

This organization, both rigorous and poetic, ensures intuitive readability of all the information. The applied silver indices and hand-polished dauphine hands create a striking contrast against the blue background, enhancing both legibility and elegance. The ensemble is completed by a perfectly matched navy blue alligator strap, closed with a folding clasp.

The Manufacture calibre FC-776: technique and modernity

Beneath this harmonious dial beats the Manufacture FC-776 calibre, a major technical evolution of the brand’s first perpetual calendar movement, the FC-775. Drawing inspiration from innovations developed across the FC-706 to FC-716 families, it now offers a doubled power reserve, extended to 72 hours from the previous 38. This three-day autonomy brings greater convenience, especially for those who alternate between different watches.

Beating at 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz) and adjusted in six positions, the FC-776 guarantees outstanding accuracy under all conditions. The various calendar indications can be set using discreet correctors integrated into the caseband, allowing for simple and intuitive operation, far removed from the intimidating reputation often associated with such high complications.

Through its transparent caseback, the movement reveals meticulous finishing: delicate perlage, fan-shaped Côtes de Genève, and a partially openworked rotor. These refined details, visible beneath the convex sapphire crystal, underscore Frédérique Constant’s commitment to aesthetic quality as much as mechanical performance.

A timepiece that embodies the brand’s mission

The Classic Perpetual Calendar Manufacture is not only a technical demonstration, it is also a manifesto. It expresses Frédérique Constant’s determination to democratize fine watchmaking, offering pieces of rare sophistication at a price that remains impressively competitive.

Priced at €9,995, this stainless steel version with a sunray blue dial represents a unique proposition on the market: a Swiss Made perpetual calendar, equipped with a modern Manufacture calibre and presented in a revisited classic design. It will appeal both to experienced collectors and to enthusiasts eager to take the next step in their horological journey.