Frederique Constant Enters The Solar Era With The Classics Moneta Solarmetre

Frederique Constant introduces a new chapter for its Classics Moneta collection with the Classics Moneta Solarmetre, the first Frederique Constant Manufacture reference to be equipped with the solar-powered FC-120 calibre, developed in partnership with the La Joux-Perret Manufacture. First launched in 2024, the Classics Moneta was conceived as a pure exercise in style, defined by its distinctive fluted flange inspired by the ridged edge of a coin a detail that gives the collection its name. With the new Solarmetre, however, technology becomes almost invisible. The solar mechanism disappears beneath the dial, leaving the watch’s refined aesthetic intact while transforming light into an effectively perpetual source of energy.

A New Era of Autonomy

For five centuries, watchmaking has pursued the idea of perpetual motion. Mechanical watchmaking has continually pushed the boundaries of power reserve, but even the most sophisticated movements ultimately require winding or a source of energy. The Solarmetre takes a different approach. As long as there is light, the watch can continue to run. Even in complete darkness, the FC-120 provides up to 10 months of autonomy. Once exposed to light again, the movement requires just 10 seconds to restart, while one minute of light provides enough energy for an entire day of operation.

Solar technology itself is not new to watchmaking, but its adoption has historically been constrained by two significant challenges: the additional bulk associated with photovoltaic systems and the difficulty of integrating solar technology without compromising the appearance of the watch. Frederique Constant Manufacture, working with La Joux-Perret Manufacture, has addressed both concerns. The result is a slim solar movement combined with translucent technology that remains virtually undetectable beneath the dial.

Three Levels of Invisible Technology

The three new Classics Moneta Solarmetre references reveal just how discreet this technology can be. The dial may appear opaque at first glance, but it is actually translucent, allowing light to pass through and reach the photovoltaic cells positioned beneath it. Beneath this sits the FC-120 calibre itself, creating a carefully engineered three-level construction.

At the deepest level, the rechargeable battery stores the electrical energy generated by the photovoltaic cells. An integrated circuit controls the movement of that energy, directing a portion towards immediate operation while sending the remainder to the battery for storage. This sophisticated energy-management system is what allows the watch to continue running for as long as 10 months without exposure to light. Crucially, none of this technology disrupts the visual character of the timepiece: the dial retains its delicate grained surface while concealing the mechanism that powers it.

A Collection of Firsts

The Solarmetre marks a series of firsts for Frederique Constant and the Classics Moneta collection. It represents the first Frederique Constant watch to feature solar technology, while also introducing the first 39 mm case size to the Classics Moneta family. It is also the first reference in the collection to feature a grained-effect dial, offered in three colours: ice blue, burgundy and cloud white.

The new models also introduce greater versatility to the collection with a dual-strap configuration. Each watch is delivered with both a leather strap featuring an alligator pattern and an elegant Milanese mesh bracelet, allowing the wearer to shift easily between a more traditional and a more contemporary expression of the watch.

Classic Design, Modern Energy

Despite its technological breakthrough, the Classics Moneta Solarmetre remains faithful to the retro-modern design language that has made the collection distinctive. Its slim case is framed by the signature fluted flange, while two dauphine hands and faceted applied indexes lend the dial a crisp, refined character. A discreet date window completes the display without interrupting the textured surface of the dial.

This restraint is central to the Solarmetre’s appeal. There are no visible photovoltaic panels, no overt technological cues and nothing to distract from the watch’s elegant proportions. Instead, the innovation is layered beneath the surface, allowing the design to take centre stage while light quietly provides the energy required to keep the watch running.

With the Classics Moneta Solarmetre, Frederique Constant Manufacture once again explores the intersection of accessibility, design and technical innovation. The collection’s fluted flange has already established itself as one of the brand’s most recognisable signatures; now, solar technology gives that familiar aesthetic an entirely new dimension. By combining meticulous finishing and Swiss Made watchmaking with an energy source that can continually replenish itself through exposure to light, the Solarmetre opens a new horizon for collectors seeking both refinement and innovation.

Price: Rs 1,32,300 approx

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is the Frederique Constant Classics Moneta Solarmetre solar-powered?
Yes. The Classics Moneta Solarmetre is Frederique Constant’s first watch equipped with solar technology. It is powered by the solar-powered FC-120 calibre, developed in partnership with La Joux-Perret Manufacture.

2. How long does the Frederique Constant Classics Moneta Solarmetre run without light?
The FC-120 calibre offers up to 10 months of autonomy in complete darkness. Just one minute of exposure to light provides enough energy for approximately one full day of operation.

3. How does the solar technology work in the Frederique Constant Classics Moneta Solarmetre?
The watch uses a translucent dial that allows light to pass through to photovoltaic cells positioned underneath. These cells convert light into electricity, which is either used to power the watch immediately or stored in a rechargeable battery.

4. What is the FC-120 calibre in the Frederique Constant Classics Moneta Solarmetre?
The FC-120 is a solar-powered calibre developed in partnership with La Joux-Perret Manufacture. It manages the energy generated by the photovoltaic cells and stores surplus energy in a rechargeable battery, providing up to 10 months of autonomy without light.

5. What is the price of the Frederique Constant Classics Moneta Solarmetre in India?
The Frederique Constant Classics Moneta Solarmetre is priced at approximately ₹1,32,300 in India. Each model comes with both a leather strap with an alligator pattern and a Milanese mesh bracelet.