Frederique Constant is bringing solar technology into its Manufacture collection for the first time with the new Classics Moneta Solarmetre, combining the traditional aesthetics of the Moneta with a movement designed to keep running as long as it has access to light.
Available with Ice Blue, Burgundy or Cloud White dials, the new model is powered by the solar FC-120 calibre, developed by La Joux-Perret Manufacture.
More importantly, there are no obvious solar panels to disrupt the watch’s classical appearance — the technology is effectively hidden beneath the dial.
Solar Power, Without the Solar Look
Introduced in 2024, the Classics Moneta takes its name from its distinctive flange, whose fluted detailing is inspired by the edge of a coin.
That retro-modern design remains central to the new Solarmetre. Frederique Constant has retained details including the slim case, fluted flange, two dauphine hands and faceted applied indexes, complemented by a discreet date window.
The biggest difference is something you cannot immediately see.
Although the grained-effect dial appears opaque, it is actually translucent, allowing light to travel through its surface to photovoltaic cells positioned underneath.
These cells convert light into electricity to power the FC-120 calibre and charge its internal rechargeable battery.
Up to 10 Months in the Dark
The benefits become apparent when it comes to autonomy.
As long as the Classics Moneta Solarmetre receives light, it can continue operating. Once fully charged, it can also run for up to 10 months in complete darkness.
Should the battery eventually run down, Frederique Constant says just 10 seconds of exposure to light is sufficient to restart the watch. A minute of exposure can generate enough energy for a full day of operation.
An integrated circuit manages how that harvested energy is used, directing some of it towards immediate operation while storing the remainder in the rechargeable battery.
The result offers the convenience associated with quartz timekeeping while dramatically reducing the need to think about battery replacement or regularly winding the watch.
Several Firsts for the Classics Moneta
Solar power isn’t the only change.
The Solarmetre introduces a new 39mm case size, making these the first Classics Moneta references offered in this diameter. They are also the first models in the collection to receive a grained-effect dial.
Each of the three colours gives the otherwise traditional design a slightly different character. Ice Blue offers a cooler contemporary appearance, Burgundy adds warmth and richness, while Cloud White provides the most understated interpretation.
Frederique Constant is also supplying each watch with two interchangeable options for the first time in the collection: an alligator-pattern leather strap and Milanese mesh bracelet.
Owners can therefore shift the watch from a more traditional leather-strapped look to the dressier metallic appearance of the mesh bracelet.
Tradition Meets Everyday Convenience
Rather than making solar power the dominant design feature, Frederique Constant has deliberately pushed it into the background.
From the outside, the watch retains the restrained proportions and classical details associated with the Moneta. Underneath, however, sits a modern energy system capable of months of autonomy.
The Frederique Constant Classics Moneta Solarmetre is available in Ice Blue, Burgundy and Cloud White, with each version retailing for S$2,010 in Singapore.
