
Frederique Constant, the Classics Moneta Handwinding Watch.
Frederique Constant is giving the Classics Moneta a mechanical makeover. First introduced in 2024, the collection has entered a new phase with the arrival of the Classics Moneta Handwinding — its first model to feature a mechanical movement. The time-only release pairs a 38.5 mm case with a hand-wound calibre developed by La Joux-Perret and customised exclusively for the Geneva-based Maison.
Produced in a limited run of just 999 pieces, the watch has also secured a shortlist spot in the Challenge category at the 2026 Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG), alongside the Classic Worldtimer Manufacture, which has been selected for the Petite Aiguille category.
The new FC-435 movement is visible through a sapphire caseback, where Côtes de Genève decoration and Frederique Constant’s crest provide a considered finish. Beating at a frequency of 4 Hz, the calibre delivers a 63-hour power reserve. Its manual-wind configuration dispenses with an oscillating weight, helping preserve the Moneta’s relatively slim profile while reinforcing its vintage-inspired character.
That neo-retro aesthetic is most apparent on the dial, which features a smoked salmon gradient that deepens to black around the edges. Mirror-polished applied hour markers sit alongside central dauphine hands and a small-seconds display at 6 o’clock, drawing directly on the visual language of 1950s watchmaking. The composition is completed by a black small-scale alligator leather strap, chosen for its supple feel and lightly patinated appearance.

Frederique Constant, the Classics Moneta Handwinding Watch.

Frederique Constant, the Classics Moneta Handwinding Watch.
The defining detail of the Moneta, meanwhile, remains tucked inside the case. Its inner rehaut is subtly sculpted with fine fluting inspired by the ridged edge of a coin — the feature that gives the collection its name and distinguishes its otherwise classical proportions.
Meanwhile, the Classic Worldtimer Manufacture represents a different side of the Maison’s mechanical offering, combining a 40 mm case with the in-house FC-719 calibre. The automatic movement extends the power reserve to 72 hours and drives a Worldtimer complication displaying all 24 reference time zones simultaneously, with a two-tone disc distinguishing day from night across the world map dial.
For Frederique Constant, the two nominations underline the breadth of its current approach. The Moneta brings a finely finished mechanical calibre to an accessible point within the Challenge category, while the Worldtimer showcases the Manufacture’s capacity to develop and assemble its own calibre and complications. The winners of the 2026 GPHG will be announced at the official awards ceremony on 7 November.
The new Classics Moneta Handwinding is now available globally online and in boutiques. Discover more here.
photography. courtesy of Frederique Constant
words. Gennaro Costanzo






































































































































































































































































































