The novelHybrid 3.0 by Frederique Constantgives a new twist to what has been a constant in the brand: being one step ahead of its competitors. If in 2015 it presented the first “horological” smartwatch with analogue indications (that is, with needles instead of digits on a screen), this time it surprises with a hybrid that brings together the best of two worlds that are in principle irreconcilable: a mechanical manufacturing caliber with an advanced electronic module capable of collecting user data and communicating with a smartphone, all in an elegant classic-cut case.
By now we have heard many times that the smartwatch is going to put an end to mechanical watchmaking because the new generations are not interested in tradition and are much more oriented towards the practical side, so it is much easier for them to check the time on their phone or - in the case of using a watch - where they obtain additional information. Peter Stas already said it at the presentation of the Horological Smartwatch: our goal is not Apple but quartz watches that only tell the time. And by faith it has achieved it: according to general director Niels Eggerding, more than 100,000 (one hundred thousand) units have already been sold since its launch.
What makes the pioneerHybrid 3.0 by Frederique Constantis that to the usual functionalities of a smartwatch (sleep monitor, step counter, dynamic trainer, data storage in the cloud...) a mechanical caliber analyzer is added (what we have been calling a chronocomparator) that will tell us if its performance is within usability parameters or needs to be adjusted. Specifically, the frequency, amplitude and possible running error are measured. The results, like all the previous ones, will be displayed on the screen of the Smartphone to which it is connected. If the analysis determines that the mechanical gauge has a problem, the user is informed through the application itself and through the cloud. Every day, at 4 am and without user intervention, the watch performs an automated analysis.
And speaking of connecting, another novelty of theHybrid 3.0 by Frederique Constantis that the smart module's battery lasts up to seven days or more, thanks to the non-permanent connection between watch and phone. This connection will occur at the user's discretion by pressing the button located between 9 and 10 o'clock, which avoids permanent connection and, therefore, excessive (and useless, in that case) consumption. This module, developed by MMT in Switzerland, has been designed with compatibility with a mechanical caliber in mind, which has made it necessary to isolate it magnetically to avoid interference with it (... which would be reflected in the built-in chronocomparator).
Both calibers are charged through a box-case with a rotor that not only rotates to charge the mechanical one but also has a micro USB to charge the electronic one. The price is €3,390 (€3,690 if the steel is gold-plated) and there is a limited series of 888 pieces with an alligator strap for €3,490.
www.frederiqueconstant.com
