In June 2022, Frederique Constant and the French DJ and producer The Avener started collaborating on releases for the Highlife collection. In 2020, the brand relaunched the integrated bracelet Highlife collection, bringing it back into the spotlight after its original 1999 launch. Now, we have the Frederique Constant X The Avener, presenting two new Limited-Edition Highlife watches: one in stainless steel with the traditional integrated bracelet, and the other featuring a black DLC case. Limited to just 432 units each, they will be exclusively available from March 2024 at Frederique Constant’s new flagship store in New York City. Every detail of these watches holds significance to The Avener, showcasing meticulous design considerations, from the color choices and sound wave patterns on the dial to the inscriptions and limited number available.
The new Limited-Edition Frederique Constant X The Avener offers two distinct cases. The first, based on the traditional Highlife, features a polished and brushed stainless steel case (ref. FC-303TA3NH6B), measuring 39mm in diameter and 10.34mm in height. It comes with a similarly brushed and polished 3-link integrated bracelet and boasts a water resistance of 10ATM. Additionally, this reference includes an extra black rubber strap. The second one (ref. FC-303TA3DNH6) comes with a sandblasted stainless steel black DLC case, carrying the same dimensions and water resistance. Instead of a bracelet, this version comes with a black rubber strap and a second black leather nubuck strap. Both the bracelet and all straps feature an integrated quick-release system for effortless interchangeability. Both models are limited to 432 units, a number chosen for its association with the perfect frequency of 432hz.
The dials of these new releases distinguish themselves from the rest of the Highlife collection with music-inspired designs. Gone is the traditional globe pattern often seen on the Highlife. The Avener aimed to encapsulate his music and career within these timepieces. The stainless steel finished Frederique Constant X The Avener showcases a matte-black dial with a dark blue sonic wave pattern traversing the dial, reminiscent of the shade of blue from The Avener’s first album. Conversely, the DLC finished model features a matte-black dial with a gray sonic wave in a circular pattern around the dial. Both models boast applied indexes and polished hands filled with black luminous material. Above the six o’clock date window on both models, you’ll find the inscription “a tempo,” signifying a return to the original speed.
Powering both Highlife Models is the popular FC-303 caliber automatic movement. Operating at a frequency of 28,800vph (4 Hz) and equipped with 26 jewels, this caliber is visible through the sapphire caseback on both models, showcasing Frederique Constant’s engraving on the rotor. Encircling the caseback’s edge is the limited-edition number of 432.
While this collaboration marks the first between Frederique Constant and The Avener, drawing new audiences to the brand, the exclusivity to the NYC Flagship store might pose a challenge for fans of the French DJ and of the watches looking to purchase. Nonetheless, the inclusion of the sound wave dial adds a unique touch. The Frederique Constant X The Avener Limited-Edition Highlife will be available starting March 2024, retailing at $2,295 USD for the stainless steel model and $2,495 USD for the black DLC-finished model, both limited to just 432 pieces. For further details, please visit the brand’s website.
