›ONLY WATCH‹ FOR A GOOD CAUSE

Last year, Frederique Constant introduced the Slimline Monolithic Manufacture, a silicon oscillating weight that beats at an unprecedented speed of 288,000 vibrations per hour or 40 Hz. The Slimline Monolithic Manufacture redefines the principles of mechanical watch regulation, ticking ten times faster than most mechanical movements. Thanks to its innovative design and small size, this revolutionary high-frequency silicon oscillator fits into a conventional movement configuration and offers an average daily accuracy of -4/+6 seconds.

The oscillating weight is made of monocrystalline silicone, a material that eliminates the major weaknesses of conventional balance springs. The monocrystalline silicone is 100% anti-magnetic, insensitive to temperature- fluctuations, less sensitive to gravity and four times lighter than the conventional range. The absence of a mechanical coupling results in less friction and wear on the parts. Consequently, less energy is required to drive the escapement wheel and the oscillating system. Finally, and importantly, silicon does not need to be oiled, which increases the long-term reliability of the escapement.

Until now, the Monolithic cantilever chair has only been offered in the Slimline Manufacture line. With the Highlife Monolithic Manufacture, the brand is presenting this concept for the first time in its Highlife collection. In the centre are the two rose gold-plated hands printed with luminous material that are characteristic of the Highlife collection. Like all Frederique Constant Manufacture creations, the Highlife Monolithic Manufacture is equipped with a glass back – a way of revealing the angular and circular movement.