The Moneta line from Frederique Constant has received high praise from the watch community.
The formal design with its characteristic inner fluted ring has appealed to many enthusiasts, including myself. Today, I had the opportunity to explore the latest model - the solar-powered Frederique Constant Moneta Solarmetre. The question arises: could this be the ideal standout wristwatch for the collection if you're not a fan of classic models?
Dial Options and Package
The Solarmetre is available in three dial variations - red, blue, and white. Each version comes with a leather strap and a Milanese stainless steel bracelet. I had the chance to test the blue and white versions. Regardless of your choice, the price is €1,150. Let's see how the watch performed in practice.
Case and Strap Specifications of Frederique Constant Moneta Solarmetre
The Frederique Constant Moneta Solarmetre is equipped with a stainless steel case with a diameter of 39 mm, a lug-to-lug distance of 44 mm, and a thickness of 8.52 mm. The top is protected by sapphire glass. The lug width is 19 mm, which may not please everyone, but that's the size provided. The package includes two straps - a 'crococalf' leather (calfskin with crocodile embossing) and a Milanese steel bracelet. Quick release spring bars with bayonet attachment ensure easy strap changes.
The case has a water resistance of 5 ATM (50 meters), suitable for daily use. This level of protection ensures resistance to splashes and brief immersion.
FC-120 Solar Charging Movement
Inside is the FC-120 caliber - a solar quartz movement developed by the La Joux-Perret manufacture, which, like Frederique Constant, is part of the Citizen group. The movement is equipped with solar cells hidden under the dial that charge the battery from light. One minute of light is enough for the watch to run for a day. Fully charged, the watch can operate for up to 10 months in the dark. To restart after a prolonged absence of light, only 10 seconds of exposure is needed.
The white dial comes with a brown crococalf strap, the icy blue with a dark blue one, and the burgundy with a black one. All dials have a granular texture, diamond-cut appliqués, and a date window at the '3 o'clock' position. The display is minimalist: hours, minutes, and date.
Design Details and Dial Layout
The Moneta Solarmetre preserves the recognizable design of previous Moneta models. A characteristic feature is the bowl-shaped case and inner fluted ring. In some reviews, it is called a bezel or rehaut, but technically it is a decorative metal ring with fluting, visually reminiscent of a bezel, creating an interesting effect.
Frederique Constant made this ring the main accent, leaving the rest of the dial classic and restrained. The hour markers are coffin-shaped, the hands are in the 'dauphine'/dagger style, and the bezel is narrow and smooth. This design provides visual hierarchy and a classic aesthetic. Practically, the fluted ring is protected by sapphire glass, eliminating problems with cleaning and maintaining appearance.
The lower dial layer is semi-transparent with a granular texture, while the upper is completely transparent. This creates a light 'floating' effect of the appliqués and print above the surface, casting a barely noticeable shadow. This technique is reminiscent of vintage watches with thick layers of transparent lacquer or enamel. The only slight remark is that the hands seem a bit short for the dial.
Comfort and Wear of Frederique Constant Moneta Solarmetre
When trying on the Moneta Solarmetre, they feel slightly different compared to the original models with the moon phase. The latter seemed perfectly fitting for an 18 cm wrist, while the new ones are slightly larger and more noticeable. The increase in case diameter from 37 to 39 mm is felt, affecting the perception of classic elegance.
For owners of larger wrists or those not tied to vintage sizes, the watches will be comfortable and appropriate. In my opinion, the 39 mm size is more universal and commercially appealing for Frederique Constant.
In general, the Moneta Solarmetre makes an impression of high-quality and well-thought-out watches in the price segment of around €1,000. They are comfortable for daily wear despite their strict and formal appearance. I especially liked the bracelet - it is of sufficiently high quality and complements the look well.
Are These the Perfect Standout Classic Watches?
For comparison, one might bring up a musical analogy: the Frederique Constant Moneta Solarmetre is like a quality recording of 20 classic pieces performed by an experienced orchestra. If you're a fan of rock, hip-hop, or blues, such compositions will be an interesting departure and a chance to get acquainted with the classics. However, if you're a true connoisseur of classical music, you'll likely prefer deeper and more original interpretations.
Thus, the Moneta Solarmetre is not designed for 'hardcore' fans of classic watches. Rather, it's a choice for those who prefer sports or other styles but want to have one classic watch for formal occasions in their collection.
The watches visually refer to historically significant models without being direct copies. The quality of execution meets the requirements of even discerning collectors. The solar movement simplifies operation, especially if the watch is often exposed to light. The price makes them accessible without guilt when choosing less formal models for everyday wear.
Previously, the ideal standout classic quartz option was considered the solar Cartier Tank, but their price has increased. The Frederique Constant Solarmetre claims this niche and does so quite successfully.
Conclusion
Yes, the Frederique Constant Moneta Solarmetre is a stylish watch with quality assembly and thoughtful design. They are suitable for those looking for formal watches with a modern mechanism and ease of operation. Personally, I'm already looking at the calendar in anticipation of the next official event to wear them again.
What do you think of the new Frederique Constant Moneta Solarmetre? Do you agree that they are the perfect standout classic watches? Share your opinion in the comments!