On the eve of the Cannes Yachting Festival, where Frédérique Constant is sponsoring the Concours d’Elégance for motor launches, Aletta and Peter Stas chose the Nice Observatory as the venue for the launch of the Slimline Moonphase Manufacture Stars. This was not just a nod to the stars that twinkle from the moon phase indicator and dial of this new ladies’ watch. The Observatoire de la Côte d’Azur is renowned throughout Europe for its historic importance and natural beauty, as well as for its scientific heritage. The media representatives present for the event had the twofold privilege of discovering an exceptional location as well as an enchanting evening watch, a perfect match for the Mediterranean skies.
Grace and style
For almost 30 years, Frédérique Constant has carved itself a niche based on value for money and an elegant and classical approach to watchmaking – particularly where women’s watches are concerned. Talking about the Slimline Moonphase Manufacture Stars, which was designed entirely in the company’s Geneva manufacture, Aletta Stas had this to say to future clients: “It is an elegant fusion of femininity and artisanship resulting in a graceful lady’s timepiece wrapped around your wrist. The combination of curves, mystery and brilliant white diamonds illuminate a woman’s wrist, defining true grace and style.” Harmony is a watchword of this model, available in plain steel or gold-plated steel versions, which succeeds in marrying a subtle blend of intricate finishes. Eight diamonds encircle the sunbrushed dial, interspersed with baton markers at the cardinal points. The eye is drawn to the slender, tapering hands that float above a scattering of silver or rose gold-coloured printed stars. The moon phase disc at 12 o’clock finds a visual echo in the generously proportioned knurled crown, which is easily manipulated to adjust the time and wind the new manufacture self-winding calibre FC-701, whose traditional perlage and Geneva striping are visible through the sapphire caseback.
More than just a watch
The harmonious effect is magnified by the 60 diamonds set around the bezel (totalling 0.5 carats), further evidence, if any were needed, that the watch is intended for women. The case diameter is also slightly smaller than the majority of men might prefer; but at 38.8 mm, it’s neither too big, nor too small. In conclusion, the Slimline Moonphase Manufacture Stars is aptly named. And, for those who want to offer their loved one not only a watch for romantic evenings, but also a poetic daytime experience, the Nice Observatory is open to the public. The building’s domed roof, designed by Gustave Eiffel, is perhaps another reminder of the crown of the Slimline Moonphase Manufacture Stars!
