At the end of summer during the annual Geneva Watch Days tradeshow in the heart of Switzerland, Frederique Constant unveiled a trio of new additions to its Classics Carrée collection. Initially launched more than 20 years ago back in 2003, the Classics Carrée line offers a distinctly Art Deco look and feel with rectangular cases and an overall aesthetic that fully embodies the spirit of the roaring 1920s—a pivotal period in watchmaking marked by a notable shift from the traditional round case shape to more inventive and angular forms. Even a century later, this design language continues to resonate, exemplifying its timelessness.

In the two decades since its initial debut, we’ve seen Frederique Constant iterate on the foundation of the design in a number of permutations. The brand has created various size options, including an XL version. It’s explored an array of dial variants, from applied indexes to Roman numerals and sunray finishing to more feminine mother of pearl. In addition, the Maison has played with various technical elements, with some models including the addition of a date aperture and others featuring the brand’s iconic “Heart Beat” escapement opening. 

With the newest models to join the Classics Carrée collection, Frederique Constant has seamlessly incorporated a small independent seconds hand at six o’clock without disrupting the balance or readability of the dial. This small seconds register is offset from the main dial by a slight recess. To accommodate the petite subdial, you have a slight modification to the number six Roman numeral as well as the track of the dial inlay that frames the hands and brand’s logo at twelve o’clock. 

The Maison’s unique interpretation of a “sector dial” minute track is another signature of the line whether in the form of a rectangle mirroring the case shape or a circle, providing contrast. This feature further contributes to the collection’s vintage appeal as this was a typical design element of watches during the Interwar Years. The same is true of the onion crown, which pays homage to the pocket watches of the era. 

At Geneva Watch Days, Frederique Constant presented three versions of the new Classics Carrée Small Seconds. Each features a 36mm x 25.2mm polished stainless steel three-part case as the base, housing the FC-235 caliber quartz movement offering over two years of battery life. However, each of the three iterations showcases some unique style elements. 

You have two versions rendered simply in stainless steel — one sportier with a complementary polished stainless steel seven-link bracelet and one dressier with a black calf leather strap complete with crocodile pattern embossing and tone-on-tone stitching. Alternatively, the brand offers an even more elevated version with the black calf leather strap and a pave case set with 158 diamonds (1.185 carats).

However, in addition to these three variants, Frederique Constant also quietly launched a fourth version exclusively for the U.S. market. This iteration is the most sophisticated within the new lineup of pieces featuring the small seconds indicator. It combines the pave case set with 158 diamonds (1.185 carats) with the seven-link stainless steel bracelet for the sleekest and chicest style combination within the quartet.

I had the pleasure of spending a couple weeks with this U.S. exclusive and absolutely fell in love — at the end of my stint with the model, I wasn’t ready to give it back. I’m typically a fan of more complicated sport and tool watches, and I’ve been known to be a bit rebellious against more traditionally designed ladies’ watches with feminine styling and gem setting. If you’d asked me to choose one of the four models, I likely would have gone for the bracelet version without the diamond pave, but this particular blinged-out watch made me reconsider my perspective on classic women’s designs. 

Whether rocking a simple white button down, black pants, and loafers to a work event or a basic tee shirt, jeans, and boots to coffee with friends, the moment I put on the U.S. exclusive, I instantly felt my look became more refined and decidedly more girly. It taught me that you don’t need florals, pinks, or lace to feel feminine — just a little splash of sparkle on your wrist is all it takes to embrace a bit more of that feminine side. 

In addition to uncovering a new appreciation for the aesthetics of a more traditional ladies’ timepiece, this watch is just a pleasure to wear. When it comes to more accessibly priced brands like Frederique Constant, I often judge the wearability and quality by the design of the bracelet. This U.S. exclusive couldn’t be more comfortable and well-constructed — it’s effortless while maintaining a nice weight as it hugs the wrist thanks to the suppleness of that seven-link design of the bracelet. 

This particular model is the priciest of the bunch at US$4,395 and will be available for purchase online by visiting Frederique Constant’s website as well as at the Citizen Flagship Store in New York City on 5th Avenue beginning in January 2025. 

Tech Specs: Classics Carrée Small Seconds Reference FC-235S2CD6B U.S. Exclusive

Movement: Quartz FC-235 caliber; 25-month battery life
Functions: Hours and minutes; small seconds
Case: 36mm × 25.2mm; polished stainless steel set with 158 diamonds (1.185 carats)
Dial: Silver dial with matte finishing
Strap: Polished stainless steel 7-link bracelet with folding buckle
Price: US$4,395

Tech Specs: Classics Carrée Small Seconds

Movement: Quartz FC-235 caliber; 25-month battery life
Functions: Hours and minutes; small seconds
Case: 36mm × 25.2mm; polished stainless steel or polished stainless steel set with 158 diamonds (1.185 carats)
Dial: Silver dial with matte finishing
Strap: Polished stainless steel bracelet with folding buckle or black calf leather with crocodile pattern embossing and tone-on-tone stitching with pin buckle
Price: US$1,095 / US$4,195 / US$995