Horological Revolution! FREDERIQUE CONSTANT Slimline Monolithic Manufacture - 40 Hz

#FrederiqueConstant #compliantmechanisms ‪@frederiqueconstant‬
Compliant or flexible mechanisms ( en.wikipedia.o... ) are the next big thing in watchmaking and open a new realm of possibilities. Given the elastic properties of certain materials like silicon, it is possible to create compact, precise monolithic single-piece components to replace some of the assembled mechanical parts. Frederique Constant now uses these flexible, jointless structures in the design of its revolutionary oscillator. A groundbreaking concept and a breakthrough in the field of precision mechanical timekeeping, the Slimline Monolithic Manufacture is equipped with a movement ticking at an astounding 288,000 vibrations per hour, ten times faster than most mechanical watches! In a regular mechanical movement beating at 28,800 vibrations per hour, the seconds hand makes eight moves to complete one second. With the FC-810 Monolithic Manufacture calibre, the seconds hand performs 80 moves per second. It delivers the smoothest possible motion of a seconds hand as it ticks faster than the eye can see!
Frederique Constant replaces the 26 components of its standard assortment with a single component fitted with two regulation weights. Made of monocrystalline silicon, the Monolithic oscillator also integrates the escapement anchor in its flexible structure.
Three novel innovations distinguish the oscillator:
A revolutionary small-size one-piece oscillator. Thanks to the geometry of flexures and masses, it is possible to produce for the first time a flexible pivot oscillator in the footprint of a traditional balance wheel.
An ultrathin oscillator with a new anchor system. The escapement anchor is incorporated into the oscillator and, for the first time, its function is integrated into the flexures allowing a substantial reduction in size while keeping all the functions in one thin silicon layer.
Adjustment weights to regulate the flexure oscillator just like those used on a traditional free-sprung balance. Watchmakers can easily fine-tune the frequency and precision by simply turning two weights.
Thanks to the engineering of the oscillator's flexures and geometry, Frederique Constant’s team reduced its dimensions to the size of a conventional regulator and increased its frequency for enhanced accuracy. While many traditional mechanical movements operate at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (= 4 Hz), the Monolithic Manufacture represents the first Swiss-made mechanical watch oscillating ten times faster at an astonishing 288,000 vibrations per hour, or 40 Hz. Despite this high-speed frequency, the efficiency of the mechanism delivers a substantial 80-hour power reserve.
The new topology of the flexures and masses has permitted the creation of an unprecedented compact size for a flexure pivot oscillator (9.8 mm in diameter and 0.3 mm in thickness). For the very first time, the anchor has been integrated within the flexure. The revolutionary design combines high-frequency (40 Hz) with low amplitude (6° versus ~300° for a regular balance wheel).
The choice of material for the oscillator eliminates key weaknesses of traditional sprung balances. Monocrystalline silicon is 100% anti-magnetic, resilient to oscillations in temperature, less sensitive to gravity and four times lighter than a regular assortment. The absence of mechanical coupling means a lower generation of friction and wear on the parts. Consequently, less power is needed to drive the escapement wheel and the oscillating system. This results in reduced force between the components: 2.5 times less torque/couple is generated. In particular, the energy waste related to the stop and go motion of the Swiss lever escapement are eliminated. Finally, yet importantly, silicon does not require lubrication. This enhances the long-term reliability of the escapement and avoids the oiling demands generated by high frequency.
The rate regulation is performed using adjustment weights, just like the system used in a traditional free-sprung balance. The setting system is extremely precise, dividing time intervals in hundredths of a second versus tenths of a second for regular mechanical movements running at a 4 Hz frequency.
Given the innovative design of the escapement, the traditional devices to measure the rate of the movement (which rely on the ticking sound of the movement) are inoperative. To calculate the average rate in seconds per day, laser cameras taking 250,000 images per second were used.
Discover even more details in the video ...
Slimline Monolithic Manufacture in stainless-steel: 4’795 CHF incl. 7,7 % VAT
Slimline Monolithic Manufacture in 18 carat rose-gold: 15’995 CHF incl. 7,7 % VAT

[@vaughanatkinson8421]

FC has always been such an under rated brand. Great pieces at an accessible price....and this development is really ground breaking! As always a great presentation Alexander.

[@WatchAdvisor]

Compliant mechanisms ... absolutely interesting - yes! Zenith tried something similar but it didn't work... The oscillator was too big and therefore to fragile... Frederique Constant approach makes much more sense...

[@jonathanwelke]

do my eyes deceive me? spring drive sweep in a mechanical movement! how very cool!

[@WatchAdvisor]

Complaint mechanism ... en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Compliant_mechanism

[@sonnymorgan4680]

Frederique Constant is still very underrated. I hope this helps them break the barrier.

[@WatchAdvisor]

This will help for sure! But as you wrote the brand still is very much underestimated, yet sometimes seen as cheap & junky ... what a shame!

[@Clearsky1945]

The sweep-second hand reminds me of Seiko's Spring Drive, which glides smoothly through time. The Frederique Constant comes pretty close due to the fast, minuscule steps. Fascinating to see that Christiaan Huygens' invention has been reinvented by Nima Tolou, who already applied it in 2017 in the 'Zenith Defy Lab.'

[@WatchAdvisor]

Zenith had to stop its project though ... The oscillator was far too big and it didn't regulate the way Zenith wanted ...

[@guillaumeperret7828]

The second smooth movement looks like electrical watch from the 70s, with an oscillating diapason (Accutron)

[@atmosrepair]

Exactly what I see too, second hand is still "stepping" but it is very fast and isn't exaggerated pause. I pulled out my Bulova automatic and shook it up to watch second hand also steps, but not much either. Kinda the way the mechanical watch with traditional escapement works, each tooth on escape wheel, or each action of pallet fork is reflected as a "step" on second hand.

[@siamsttr]

FC deserves more recognition! They just don't branch out for brand recognition much..yet. Hopefully they do. They certainly deserve the praise and and recognition.

[@WatchAdvisor]

FC stands for value for money and not for showing off and behaving "loud" ...

[@siamsttr]

@@WatchAdvisor yes they certainly do, and that's why I like them. But if people don't even know they exist, it's hard to stand for that. I didn't know about them for years, until I was bored one day and googled how these Frederique constant watches I see on Amazon are. Otherwise I wouldn't even know. At first I assumed they were just like any other new cool sounding name brand. And I saw no publicity or ads to say otherwise. That's all.

[@YeCannyDaeThat]

Smooth seconds hand sweep from a completely mechanical movement. I mean this is the holy grail. This has been sought after for 200 years. Can't belive it. If PAtek had done this first they would be charging 6 figures and the industry would be going mad for the news. Well done FC! I have an alpina and I would love to see this in a startimer.

[@WatchAdvisor]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts and passion with us! You will see this calibre throughout the entire collection of FC in the near future…

[@YeCannyDaeThat]

@@WatchAdvisor only thing is the disc isn't that attractive to look at. If it were maybe gold and somehow better looking? Just looks a bit random. But hey it's great.

[@WatchAdvisor]

What disc do you mean?

[@jak137bima]

@@YeCannyDaeThat its made out of silicium, thats why the colour is fixed

[@EsVee650]

@@YeCannyDaeThat Definitely polarizing for sure, but I don't mind it. Looks similar to blued steel to me.

[@8eecf0d2]

I only recently started my interest in mechanical watches and found the FC brand very interesting, I feel so lucky to be able to witness such an innovation take place. As a software developer I find the use of silicon quite ingenious and can appreciate their staged approach to development as it's a very difficult and expensive material to manufacture. I hope to own an FC as my first mechanical watch and perhaps one day a monolithic manufacture. Thank you for sharing this video Alexander, such great information and delivery!

[@WatchAdvisor]

You are very welcome! I love your comment, thanks for sharing! In case you have any questions, please let me know...

[@jhb072]

Thanks Alexander. This is true innovation. It has a similar sweep to Grand Seiko spring drive without the need of quartz crystal. Very nice marine Breguet inspired design. 80 hours is very impressive as well. Thanks for being us to Geneva. Well done.

[@WatchAdvisor]

You are welcome! I am happy to read that you liked the video...

[@DavidDatura]

Fascinating tech! With potential accuracy on par with Spring Drive, but fully rather than semi-mechanical instead. It even seems to have that smooth seconds hand sweep too.

[@WatchAdvisor]

Different approach ! en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Compliant_mechanism

[@sadaka201]

Great content, Alexander! FC delivers excellent products for a very good pricetag. Can't be overlooked.

[@WatchAdvisor]

Interesting and courageous ... FC dares and delivers ... at least so far they never messed something up ...

[@johnacteson5503]

My joyful excitement watching this was only matched by my wife's total lack of interest as I tried to explain to her.

[@WatchAdvisor]

I hear you, he he!! If you want to top your explanations ... complaint mechanism ... en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Compliant_mechanism

[@koochie88]

ha ha ha dont even go there! Somethings are best left alone - Agree to Disagree - the perfect ratio for most Marriages!

[@edwintschopp1493]

Wow. Compliments to FC.

[@WatchAdvisor]

Frederique Constant did a great job here and the Geneva based brand will again deliver a functioning watch to the markets ...

[@donjuan150]

Please more content like this.....less of the same mainstream brands. Great presentation as always.

[@WatchAdvisor]

We are working on that issue ... It is not at easy as you might think though ...

[@MarPabl]

This is indeed a revolution. Let me show you the facts: 1️⃣ The Omega coaxial was put to shame 😁 and now that Metas can be achieved. 2️⃣ The Rolex Superlative Chronometer is no longer as impressive. 3️⃣ The Bulova Precisionist and the Seiko Springdrive have no longer the most fluid seconds 🖐🏻 and moreover this was done with a purely mechanical movement. 4️⃣ The Powermatic 8️⃣0️⃣ was proved wrong with the assumption that you need to lower the A/H to get a better Power Reserve. 4️⃣ Zenith and Seiko are no longer the unique hi beat movement with a workable power reserve. And I say workable because I endure longer in the 🛏😈 than the Zenith Defy counting 💯th of seconds.

[@WatchAdvisor]

Well there is some truth in what you write, but only time will tell if you were right or not… The new oscillator now must prove it works and is sold for millions of times…

[@koochie88]

am getting excited. I have a SS version on White Dial reserved. Look forward to getting the call from the AD shortly! Well done FC on this groundbreaking development.

[@WatchAdvisor]

Bravo! Congratulations! Please share some feedback with us once you have your watch ...

[@danielhoffmann521]

Hey, what is your daily precision on this watch.

[@oatmongen4263]

I wasn’t a fan of the brand until I saw this. Its amazing that compliant mechanisms are finally being brought to watch making.

[@WatchAdvisor]

Did you have the chance to see the watch in real yet?

[@oatmongen4263]

@@WatchAdvisor No, unfortunately not.

[@WatchAdvisor]

You should! Please share some thoughts with us thereafter...

[@HuangGavin99]

Thank you for providing such a great video, it answered lots of my questions. I pre-ordered the white stainless steel one. This watch is so beautiful that I cannot resist. Now the only conern I have is that if FC stops developing the silicon oscillators in the future, my watch will have problem with servicing/repairing!

[@WatchAdvisor]

This will NOT happen! Frederique Constant always delivers... and they will guarantee you the service for many years ...

[@Nickos1b]

Amazing! Why everyone in the watch enthusiast circles is not talking about this 24/7 is beyond me.

[@WatchAdvisor]

Good question! Thanks for sharing our passion!

[@PoltergeistWorks]

Because it's not ROLEX who did this, but Frederique Constant :P Meanwhile Rolex moves the crown from the right side of the watch to the left :P

[@DCTag]

I’m truly excited about this movement.

[@WatchAdvisor]

This is just the beginning as Niels explains in the video ... there is more to come...

[@quiterioalbertobaezbenitez5739]

Thank you very much Alexander for bringing to us this outstanding advance in micro-mechanics applied to horology. Future is made of dreams one song said, but at the same time it is remarkable that this amazing achievement is been made by a young company. What I can say is that I admire it, considering their philosophy as heroical too. Long life to Frederique Constant!! Saludos!!

[@WatchAdvisor]

This is just the beginning ... once the processes for a larger scale production are set up Frederique Constant will for sure implement this oscillator in many other models ...

[@atmosrepair]

So cool that he took the time to disassemble the movement for us!

[@WatchAdvisor]

Thanks for sharing our passion!

[@b.2221]

Thank you for this uplifting video on this amazing company Sir.

[@WatchAdvisor]

You are very welcome!

[@andreizamfira]

I always liked this brand. And agree, it is such an underrated brand, has so much more things than the other higher ranked brands

[@WatchAdvisor]

It takes time until a brand gets it full recognition... especially in the watch industry some 30 years are almost nothing ... but this does not change anything, since those who know Frederique Constant well know to appreciate the brand...

[@linxianer12]

FC is ultimate tier in develop in-house movement I very respect FC hope they become popular like rock star this time !!! Our Grand Seiko friend might be shock for this time ;)

[@WatchAdvisor]

Frederique Constant does not announce and not deliver ... this is something I very much like...

[@69elchupacabra69]

That movement and oscillator is interesting. Reminds me of Zenith Defy minified

[@WatchAdvisor]

Zenith had to stop the project though ... The oscillator was far too big and therefore pretty sensitive to shocks and it didn't regulate the way Zenith wanted ...

[@sosin]

Very nice technology.

[@WatchAdvisor]

Yep! Frederique Constant never disappoints and always delivers ...

[@tarquesh]

I am a happy owner of a blue. One year ago i discover the presentation of Flexous and FC, and i start follow FC. The pointer date almost forgot to mention it is more elegant than a date window lost on a dial. When the technology travel to more models, more watch enthusiasts can taste the high quality FC have to offer. Louis Breguet and the tourbillon, George Daniels and co-axial, FC and the monolithic oscillator.

[@ahmadbukhari7947]

Can you please share your experience with accuracy of the watch? I mean in terms of +/- spd. Thanks.

[@doomslayer3294]

That sweep is so smooth! Great horology

[@WatchAdvisor]

Have you seen it in real yet?

[@doomslayer3294]

@@WatchAdvisor ok yeah

[@RolexTimex]

I want to get a Frederique Constant. Saw a beautiful subdial moonphase and date manufucture i can't get off my mind. I think i respect this brand now.

[@springinfialta106]

I have a steel FC with a moon phase. I like the pointer date as well. My only suggestions would be that the pointer for the date be blue to match the strap rather than black, and that it have a crescent moon at the end to surround the date. Then it would be perfect. I think of it as a "poor man's Blancpain".

[@mkyhou1160]

Amazing technology. Love to see a steel sports full mechanical with quartz like accuracy.

[@WatchAdvisor]

This will be reality in the foreseeable future ...

[@vintagedigital108]

Now build a chronograph measuring 1/1000th of a second!

[@WatchAdvisor]

Could be an idea... 😉

[@antonvanschalkwyk5684]

That is what I was thinking. Amazing opportunity for a highly precise chronograph

[@chrisk105]

Looks great! A watch to watch out for.

[@WatchAdvisor]

The new oscillator will also find its way in other Frederique Constant models ....

[@martin4374]

Gawd, that is absolutely insane!

[@WatchAdvisor]

Frederique Constant dared!

[@carlexplores8709]

What a brilliant watch! I love the new technology!

[@WatchAdvisor]

That's just the beginning! In a short period other models will feature this innovation ...

[@N7Sound]

Congratulations to FC. Selling luxury is easy nowadays, some companies make average products, put high prices and sell. They don't even care about innovation. I'm glad brands like FC still care about horology and trying to innovate. This movement looks amazing. Isn't the Zenith Defy Inventor using the same technology?

[@WatchAdvisor]

Zenith stopped the project… it’s oscillator was too big and therefore very sensitive concerning shock, plus it didn’t regulate as expected…

[@koochie88]

Collecting my own Monolithic tomorrow morning - nice end of year present to Myself!! Cannot Wait to see and wear the future of Watchmaking..........

[@WatchAdvisor]

Bravo! Congratulations! Please share some personal thoughts with us once you have it…

[@oatmongen4263]

Which one are you getting? Steel gold or steel and blue?

[@jimlittle5769]

I've been talking this watch up for months. Great watch.

[@WatchAdvisor]

Would you want one?

[@jimlittle5769]

@@WatchAdvisor its on my list, just not in the top five of my remaining desired watches.

[@GailitisPrintmaking]

It would have made a lot more noise if it was made by some other major watch company. But such a great piece! Truly fascinating. It could revolutionize watchmaking!

[@WatchAdvisor]

Others would have made much more "noise" of course ... but this is not the style of FC!

[@mickaelmartinez2236]

Actually Zenith did present the same kind of technology in 2017 in the defy lab.

[@GailitisPrintmaking]

Yes, it was also an oscillator, but in my opinion, they are two rather different "beasts", size and execution wise.

[@WatchAdvisor]

Zenith had to stop the project. Their oscillator was far too big and therefore sensitive to shocks, plus Zenith had an issue regulating the oscillator...

[@GailitisPrintmaking]

@@WatchAdvisor

[@lupodisol]

Perhaps this is the most interesting watcheAdvisor topic I’ve seen,

[@WatchAdvisor]

Frederique Constant would in fact deserve much more attention for its invention…

[@Wildcatjames1]

Fascinating stuff! I really hope they make a success of this as they make some lovely looking watches. I’ll certainly be keeping an eye on them

[@WatchAdvisor]

Your definitely should! So far Frederique Constant never disappointed and always delivered ...

[@Wonky_ties]

Great video! Enjoyed this one

[@WatchAdvisor]

I am happy to read this! Thanks for sharing our passion!

[@adrianobanak2824]

Frederique Constant is IMHO, together with NOMOS best bang for buck in watch industry, hands down.

[@WatchAdvisor]

Very true, if we add Swatch Group brands as Certina, Hamilton, Longines, Mido and Tissot ...

[@adrianobanak2824]

@@WatchAdvisor well, those are great brands indeed, but they dont have in-house calibers like FC or NOMOS.

[@WatchAdvisor]

This only partly true! Since a while ETA, the Swatch Group movement manufacturer, delivers to the brands tailor-made and exclusive calibres ... They come from the same legitimate source but they are not the same ...

[@luispadilla2212]

Even before I see the video I give it a like . I just know it is going to be good. Thank you.

[@WatchAdvisor]

So what are your thoughts after watching the video?

[@luispadilla2212]

@@WatchAdvisor great work,beautiful watches, unfortunately I save for a new watch every 2 years and this year I bought an Omega Seamaster white dial for my son who just got his Bachelor's degree.

[@leestrada1]

Very impressive!

[@WatchAdvisor]

Yesssss!

[@hovvy786]

Very interesting video. Thanks

[@WatchAdvisor]

I am happy to read this! Thanks for sharing our passion ...

[@tiberiuvincze8288]

Hello, Nice video, It's hard to imagine now the impact on the watchmaking! but will be an little earth quake, I saw their live presentation some months ago, and know their first watch with this innovation! Nice and quick! Thanks!

[@WatchAdvisor]

Thanks for your feedback and sharing our passion!

[@jcc1889]

They should really put such high tech escapement in their sporty models and Alpina

[@WatchAdvisor]

They will do this! Niels explains in the video why it was launched in this case and design ...

[@jonnytesillo1142]

HEYO !! How have you been ?) Honestly it fascinates me !!! It seems that I have found a new piece of my liking (possible purchase) the engineering in this watch is very well achieved, the high frequency is simply mesmerizing.

[@WatchAdvisor]

I am fine, thank you! I am happy to read this... let me know if you have any questions...

[@wpm68]

i have a High life in rose gold and leather strap black dial i cannot wait for it ! very nice watches from this maker!

[@WatchAdvisor]

Keep us posted once you have it please…

[@markw951]

Very impressive development. Bravo FC 👏 Looking forward to see this being implemented in your new watches. But please keep the watches in the 38-40mm range.

[@WatchAdvisor]

This is "only" the beginning ... other models will follow soon ... I also expect Alpine to be equipped with this innovation ...

[@mohdgaith2939]

Oh my god. Revolutionary indeed

[@WatchAdvisor]

Would you buy the watch or wait for a more modern, technical and contemporary design?

[@mohdgaith2939]

I would buy it. I love their classic dress style designs

[@WatchAdvisor]

Thanks for sharing

[@violin-schwerin]

what a glorious watch, I cannot wait to get a simpler model down the line. I feel reminded of the last great development, the spring drive

[@WatchAdvisor]

FC wants to expand this technology also to other collections...

[@jch7807]

Such a calming voice

[@WatchAdvisor]

Yep!

[@stebesplace]

It’ll be good to see this in a large range of models, sports, divers, etc. Broaden the portfolio, or even provide for other brands.

[@WatchAdvisor]

This will happen ... just wait a while ...

[@lesgillard1508]

Wow. What an interesting technology Alexander. Your question about the possible weakness of the mechanism was impressive, the answer very interesting. I look forward to seeing how this technology evolves...Who knows? Another Watch brand I have to check out after the COVID.

[@WatchAdvisor]

I keep my fingers crossed that you may discover all these watches ver, very soon... The situation you are in is CRAZY!

[@lesgillard1508]

@@WatchAdvisor Thanks mate. It would be nice to be able to go to Sydney (not Melbourne....earthquake ) and spend a week or 3 looking at watches(if there are any available). No worries, just keep your vids coming :-) Take care. :-)

[@ytdavidkwei]

I personally like the FC very very much. Very elegant and stylish. However I feel I am in the minority. Majority likes bulky and sport style. But I have noticed the style has changed. It is more about uniqueness and movement.

[@WatchAdvisor]

Tastes are different! There will always be buyers for both type of watches… FC will later on also offer this mechanism in other type of designs….

[@jonase5457]

Thrilling technology! I do wonder how they regulate those movements?

[@stevewilliams5428]

It's in the description.. weights.. the same as a traditional balance.

[@WatchAdvisor]

Thanks for highlighting!

[@anthonystevens8683]

Many thanks for sharing Alexander. I find this new escapement very interesting indeed. It got my mechanical watch movement nerd mode fully engaged. Could this be the new big leap in escapement since the late George Daniels co-axial escapement? With modern materials available to be cut at very high tolerances with variable position weights to regulate I am seriously interested in finding out more. Thanks to you and FC for giving us the heads up and comfort in knowing that development and innovation continues in mechanical movements.

[@WatchAdvisor]

That's what I call: progress through technology ...

[@brendan5539]

Gorgeous!

[@WatchAdvisor]

Go and see it in real if you can. You will like what you see!

[@atmosrepair]

This watch is still spring driven, that is what is in the barrel. What is revolutionary here is the escapement, no more balance wheel.

[@japd7897]

I find the movement too thick. Why don´t we see more peripheral rotors?, Are they less efficient?, More expensive to produce?,... So cool this innovation, I hope we can see it in the near future in sportier models. I would also show the oscillator on the back and would cover the dial, the oscillation is too fast and makes me a little nervous, same as the Zenith Inventor skeleton.

[@WatchAdvisor]

This is "only" the beginning ... Frederique Constant will for sure implement this oscillator in many other calibres/models ...

[@simonrano8072]

you have to cut it from a much large piece of Silicone which is more expensive as they said. They also want to keep there design style : retro breguet style with guillochets, Roman letters... Yeah it is too thick so far

[@WatchAdvisor]

The design will change ... soon there will be other models coming with the new oscillator ... I also expect to see it in an Alpina soon ...

[@dharam2016]

Beautiful watch and the new tech is nice. It would have been more informative if u had shown collectively those 26 parts which is replaced by jst this one part. Still amazing video with detailed information these brands do so much more everytime they come with new watch. ❤ cheers to thsi model, am sure it will be a Hit.

[@stevewilliams5428]

Pallet forks, pallet pivot, pallet jewels 2 +2 pallet pivot jewels, pallet bridge, pallet bridge screw(s). Impulse jewel, impulse jewel holder, balance, balance screws(several where fitted). Balance pivot. Hairspring, hairspring collet. Hairspring stud, Hairspring stud fixing pin. Balance bridge, balance bridge screw(s), top balance jewel usually 2 piece plus shock spring. Lower balance jewel usually 2 piece plus shock spring. Regulator... usually one piece but can be more. Indexing pins(2) on regulator. Stud screw to secure hairspring stud to balance bridge. Some of the above.. but not all will be deleted by the new silicone balance assembly.

[@WatchAdvisor]

This is a nice video showing you the Swiss lever escapement in action ... kzbin.info/www/bejne/h6jKe4R5gMmWZ9E

[@burakgu1]

Great innovation, can’t wait to see the monolithic movement in the Highlife collection. I’m curious about servicing a watch with such a movement. I assume it will be much easier and affordable to service this movement, because the oscillator is replacing 26 components. Am i wrong about this?

[@WatchAdvisor]

Once this new watch is sold over the world the FC service centers will be able to do whatnot necessary … Will it be easier? Not sure 🤔 The oscillator is delicate and must be regulated… Only time will tell though…

[@jonandresen1483]

Awesome video introduction to a very interesting development! Thanks so much!

[@WatchAdvisor]

You are welcome! I am happy you liked the video ...

[@bennyraichu]

I love a smooth sweep! This is better than Spring Drive IMO, since it's purely mechanical.

[@WatchAdvisor]

Bravo! Yes!!! Thanks for sharing!

[@andrewroos6035]

Congratulations to Frederique Constant on what is perhaps the first structural (as opposed to materials) innovation in purely mechanical movements since George Daniels invented the coaxial escapement in 1976. This should make the horology world sit up and take notice of this young brand. How is the monolithic oscillator regulated? Since the effective length of the springs cannot be adjusted as for a conventional balance spring, I imagine it would have to be by altering the mass of the regulator - for example by etching it to be slightly slow, and then removing material to raise the frequency. Either that, or it may be possible to manufacture them with sufficient tolerance that regulation is not required.

[@WatchAdvisor]

Zenith presented a similar but much bigger oscillator some years ago, but abandoned the project meanwhile. There are adjustment weights to regulate the flexure oscillator (you clearly see them in the video) just like those used on a traditional free-sprung balance. Watchmakers can easily fine-tune the frequency and precision by simply turning two weights.

[@andrewroos6035]

@@WatchAdvisor Thank you for your reply, and your videos which are always interesting and informative!

[@WatchAdvisor]

@@andrewroos6035 You are welcome!

[@PV-Anish]

I think the success will ultimately depend on how many other brands will recognise this innovation and try to implement in their watches. The original Swiss escapement is famous because every brand implemented it. Curious to see if other brands try to implement it in their watches.

[@WatchAdvisor]

Compliant mechanisms aren't new but have not been successfully integrated in watch so far. Zenith had a similar, but much bigger oscillator and had to give up the project again. Since this oscillator is smaller it is not as sensible to shocks ... It is already/only a version 2.0 though...

[@inakimilton5460]

Great video and a very interesting innovation. Lets see what brings the future releases. FC always a brand that offers a lot for the money. Not my cup of tea, but always bringing interesting stuff

[@WatchAdvisor]

The oscillator will in a short time also make its way in other cases/models ... maybe then you will like it more ... who knows ...

[@johnr1350]

Amazing advancement

[@WatchAdvisor]

Thanks for sharing our passion!!!

[@ductritran8637]

By the time I watch this video , no chance in Australia I could buy one . All are sold as number so limited .

[@WatchAdvisor]

Are you still interested? I can forward your interest directly to Niels if you wish… just send me an email…

[@ductritran8637]

@WatchAdvisor sorry its too late , this is one month ago , I bought a grand seiko . And the reply is only 5 minutes ago . Thanks any way

[@WatchAdvisor]

@@ductritran8637 I posted my reply one month ago, just after you wrote yours… and offered you to put you in contact with the CEO…

[@jaredj.9180]

@@WatchAdvisor Hi Alexander, thanks so much for the video - it was truly fascinating. A really amazing development.. I had to show my wife! I realise its a long shot, but do you know whether there are any pieces still available for order? Thanks so much!

[@MCMTL]

This is Citizen's response (through Frédérique Constant) to Grand Seiko's Spring Drive.

[@WatchAdvisor]

It is great development!

[@MCMTL]

@WatchAdvisor Indeed, this is revolutionary, pun intended. I'm new to the world of horology and innovative designs seem to attract me most.

[@cosmalas7742]

Ticks so fast you cannot measure the speed with sound. Amazing!

[@WatchAdvisor]

A laser does the job! The data collected and processed to regulate a watch is impressive...

[@pukenanginang]

This is a real threath to other brands to innovate and up their game. Even though zenith built this type of mechanism, respect to FC for improving it and bringing it to the mass consumers.

[@WatchAdvisor]

Zenith in fact stopped the project… their oscillator was far too big and therefore fragile … plus they had an issue with regulating it … it is now up to FC to show that this approach with a compliant mechanism works… so far FC always delivered so I have no doubt that they will turn it into a success…

[@wd99999]

Why do certain brands insist on mounting the straps backwards? It looks and feels terrible! Nice watch btw

[@WatchAdvisor]

Well, a good question... I don't know the answer!

[@duncanidaho2130]

Look at my Avatar. I own a Frederique Constant Slimline Quartz... and feel that I have something very special.

[@WatchAdvisor]

Bravo! Congratulations! May your FC always show you happy seconds, minutes and hours…

[@duncanidaho2130]

@@WatchAdvisor Thank you. It is my most prized piece.

[@naturalherbaloil2796]

Lovely

[@WatchAdvisor]

Thanks for sharing our passion!

[@sefard777]

Are the two metalic prongs mounted to the balance used for adjustments? Since the amplitude is lower, will this lower the wear on the wheels? Are there different lubricants used on the fourth wheel and escapement because of the higher number of "stops"?

[@WatchAdvisor]

Yes, the prongs shown in the video serve for regulating the oscillator ... Different oils with a different viscosity are used to lubricate

[@antonvanschalkwyk5684]

If you put it up to your ear can you hear the buzz?

[@WatchAdvisor]

Yes!

[@sonvu9756]

This new technology/movement reminds me of Bulova tuning fork movement which also runs at high frequency (360Hz), means the second hand ticks 360 times per second, even smoother than this even though the human eyes cant see the different. Tuning fork movement also has higher accuracy than mechanical movement, guaranty less than 1 minute a month. But in the end, it is harder to service, and it still lost to quartz movement cause they are cheaper and easier to maintain. Now mechanical movements can be service by any competent watchmaker, parts are quite accesible but the same cant be said about this new mechanical movement. To regulate this, timegrapher won't work and we need a laser machine made specifically for the job. Not to mention new technology needs time to really be proven reliable. Eta C07 used to have synthetic escape wheel and pallet but then they have to go back to metal ones in newer version. In my opinion, unless there is a solid reason for this new technology to replace the tradition swiss level escapement, I don't think this can get popular, probably it will only belong to one brand used in their high-end watches like Seiko spring drive.

[@WatchAdvisor]

Once there is enough interest for this invention it will evaluate quickly and make its way. FC service centers around the world will then be able to regulate the oscillator if necessary...

[@tadejkokalj5170]

Regarding popularity and tradition, coaxial sends his best

[@beardymcbeardface69]

This innovation was not by FC though, it was by Flexous Mechanisms, who have so far partnered with FC and Zenith. So I would say watch this space for more watch companies taking on this innovation from Flexous.

[@BassplayerTCL]

Just wanted to ask this again. Do you happen to know if it has hacking seconds? I do wonder how they're able to stop the mechanism because it isn't like a traditional escape wheel.

[@WatchAdvisor]

Apologies for not answering earlier! No hacking seconds in this new calibre...

[@HuangGavin99]

Hi Alexander, since this watch is quite unique, do you know how often does it need to be serviced? And I think to service it, it will need to be sent back to FC in Switzerland? Thanks!

[@WatchAdvisor]

Service intervals will be the same as with “normal” watches and all certified service centers should be able to handle this…

[@Zeeraha]

I am happy for the FC's remarkable achievement, but wasn't the Zenith the first one commercially introducing the monolithic oscillator on its Defy Inventor model, back in 2017? Defy Inventor is running at 18 Hz.

[@WatchAdvisor]

Yes! But Zenith meanwhile had to give up the project! Their oscillator didn't regulate and was too sensitive to shocks ...

[@Zeeraha]

@@WatchAdvisor Indeed, I hope FC will have better success, watch industry deserves some true inovation at accessible price. Nevertheless, I hope seeing Zenith come back with monolithic oscillator some day, some how :)

[@WatchAdvisor]

@@Zeeraha 🤞🏻

[@Albyilmago]

Alex, I think FC-810 is as much revolutionary as the GS Spring Drive! You mentioned precision many times, do you remember exactly what is the average per day? Is it +-5 sec per day? Thanks, Alberto

[@Albyilmago]

I will answer myself lol. Did I read correctly 1,59 sec per day?

[@topgmentality4104]

It's obvious that the movement is capable of indicating power in the barrel, which is why I'm a bit upset they didn't shove in there on the first watch with the new FC-810 movement. It's the dial between the time and date.. Very small 🙄

[@WatchAdvisor]

Why being upset? Wait what will come next ...

[@handsandcogs3171]

Who would have thought that FC would in 1 swoop just reinvented the mechanical watch . Watch this space for future precision!!

[@WatchAdvisor]

You need to dare! You need to realize! You need to industrialize! You need to communicate! You need to sell! ... Yes, it can be done!

[@atmosrepair]

They reinvented the mechanical watch escapement

[@fynn2247]

Is it comparabel to a Spring Drive Movement?

[@WatchAdvisor]

No! Check here to better understand the technology: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Compliant_mechanism

[@atmosrepair]

This watch is still spring driven, that is what is in the barrel. What is revolutionary here is the escapement (release of power), no more balance wheel.

[@beardymcbeardface69]

@@atmosrepair Spring Drive is a trademark. Asking if this is comparable to Spring Drive, is not an assertion that this movement is not driven by a spring.

[@TruongNguyen-kv4ox]

What about maintenance? Can it be done at any watch shop or dealer?

[@WatchAdvisor]

No! The watch must be maintained by Frederique Constant and/or one of its subsidiaries…

[@japd7897]

About shock resistance, Can I wear the watch riding a bicycle In the city on cobble streets?, that is how I go to work. Thank you.

[@WatchAdvisor]

Yes! Since this oscillator is not as big as the one from Zenith the approach/solution of Frederique Constant is much more stable and less affected by shocks... Zenith had to give up the project since its oscillator was to fragile and they couldn't regulate it correctly ...

[@japd7897]

@@WatchAdvisor I save a lot of money every month since I use my bike to go to work and my legs and heart are fitter 👍😄.

[@WatchAdvisor]

@@japd7897 Bravo! Mens sana in corpore sano

[@TheBlindSkwerl]

I've been thinking about this watch since it was announced. Watched and read everything I can find about it. Does it have hacking for the second hand?

[@WatchAdvisor]

No hacking seconds…

[@parmoddhankhar973]

Please makes watch leather strap with hand saddle stitchs instead of ordinary sewing machine stitches 😊😊

[@WatchAdvisor]

That will also affect the price of the watch… Would you pay more?

[@RickyRicon2023]

Hi, great video Alexander !! a question about the precision of the watch ? 1.59 second per day por week por month? i lost it in this part

[@WatchAdvisor]

What you see in the video on the screen is per day... the precision FC wants to chive is less than one second per day...

[@RickyRicon2023]

@@WatchAdvisor great, thank you very much for bring us this masterpiece!

[@guillaumeperret7828]

Has any mechanical watch this type of precision?

[@WatchAdvisor]

@@guillaumeperret7828 Yes, a perfectly regulated Tourbillon does…

[@RickyRicon2023]

@@guillaumeperret7828 1-2 seconds a day of precision can be achierve by Omega - Rolex and i think others luxury brands, this FC has 1.59 sec a day in this moment.

[@dr-gb3tq]

why it is a very thick watch? i hoped for a slimmest design..

[@WatchAdvisor]

I can’t tell you why - Sorry!

[@tshegopicerna3815]

☺️🙌 nice

[@WatchAdvisor]

A different and smart approach !!

[@user-do8ef4np7q]

Just wow

[@WatchAdvisor]

Thanks for sharing our passion!

[@ganybaba9377]

Hi.. do you think this will be a sought after collector's item in future? I was in swiss last week and got introduced to this brand at Grindlwald but this model wasnt shown or i would have bought it. Can i order this from singapore?

[@WatchAdvisor]

You definitely should! In the moment though demand seems to be very high and FC can’t keep up with the production…

[@samietran7159]

The only thing I dislike about this brand is the sizing for their dress watches, 40 - 42 mm are way too big and should be down sizing to 36 - 40 mm. I sold their in house 42mm slimline version but keep the Carree with SW200 movement due to the sizing factor …

[@WatchAdvisor]

Tastes are different!

[@antonvanschalkwyk5684]

Thanks for the amazing video, how does this differ in principle from the extremely expensive zenith defy oscillator from a few years back? Thanks.

[@WatchAdvisor]

This one works… Zenith though stopped the project…

[@BassplayerTCL]

Does it have a stop seconds/hacking function?

[@gianpakasa]

Such a movement deserve a launch in a steel Sport watch as the market wants, not in a grandfather watch...Where is Citizen???

[@WatchAdvisor]

Yes! Absolutely true, but this is how Frederique Constant ticks ... Niels says it in the video ...

[@sefard777]

Imagine Rolex launching a new technology in a pilots watch on a NATO strap... 😂

[@gianpakasa]

@@WatchAdvisor it's such a nonsense move, that make me think that Citizen did give the final kick to this movement, let FC put it in first for some models of watches, that no one wants, and then, maybe in a year or two, we'll see a "cheap" version of that movement in a Sporty Citizen (maybe 5k?) that will sell 100 times more than FC

[@WatchAdvisor]

No that's not the reason! Listen to Niels in the video ... he explains why they launched it as you see it ...

[@gianpakasa]

@@WatchAdvisor the problem is that we know what he said but we don't know what Citizen wants... Think about, in Japan domestic market, this movement its the punch in the face to Seiko Spring Drive...

[@elihernandez330]

I wonder what the power reserve would be if they were to halve it 20 beats per second or even by an 8th down to just 5bps like how the old watches were.

[@WatchAdvisor]

Difficult to answer! I think you cant calculate the power reserve wit a compliant mechanism ... you will only know once you assembled the entire first prototype... that's a complete new field of horology...

[@EsVee650]

I may be wrong, but I think reducing the frequency would require a redesign of the oscillator to increase mass. Doing that would make it larger and also require more power to maintain amplitude(?), thus also reducing efficiency. In the video, they mention the objective of reducing size and the lightness of the material, both contributing to the efficiency.