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Quick Summary
Frederique Constant just launched the Manchette.
That's a retro cuff watch which you shouldn't discount unnecessarily.
I saw a lot of brilliant pieces at Watches and Wonders 2025. The annual show is home to some of the most impressive bits of horological excellence and stunning jewellery, meaning there's something awe-inspiring at every turn.
But there was one piece which really caught my eye that I wasn't able to talk about – until now. On the Frederique Constant booth was a dainty cuff watch called the Manchette. Still under strict embargo at the time, it took secret handshakes and knowing winks before we were able to pilfer one and get it on the wrist.
Truthfully, I wasn't expecting all that much. Gendered watches have almost entirely been eradicated these days, but this very definitely lies in the 'feminine' category. It's slim and dainty and looks more like a bangle than a watch from most angles.
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Don't be fooled though – on the right wrist, this thing is a knockout. Don't let any dated feelings around masculinity keep it from you – the Manchette is perfectly styled and neatly arranged to offer something you certainly won't already have in the collection.
There are four dial options to choose from. The base model features a simple white dial with Roman numerals, while there are two stone dials and a diamond-encrusted backdrop sans-markers on offer too.
Personally, my favourite was actually the white. Maybe that just showcases how dull I'm getting, but the simplicity stood out, and made for a really classy piece. There are most certainly others who'll do the fancier dials justice, though.
Inside, you'll find a quartz movement powering each of these. That's rated for five years of battery life, and sits within a stainless steel case.
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Prices vary from model to model, with a full price chart attached below:
| Row 0 - Cell 0 | White dial | Black Onyx dial | Green Malachite dial | Diamond dial |
GBP | approx. £1,090 | approx. £1,595 | approx. £1,595 | approx. £3,600 |
EUR | €1,295 | €1,895 | €1,895 | €4,295 |
USD | approx. $1,500 | approx. $2,150 | approx. $2,150 | approx. $4,850 |
AUD | approx. $2,275 | approx. $3,325 | approx. $3,325 | approx. $7,500 |
Those precious models will like be a slightly tougher sell, but I maintain that the white model offers remarkably good value in the context of the modern watch market.
If you're looking for something you don't already have, chances are this might be it. Go on, be brave – you might surprise yourself!

Sam Cross is an award-winning journalist, with nine years of experience in the media industry. His work can be found in publications as diverse as Oracle Time, Metro and Last Word on Sports.
Here at T3, Sam is best known as the brand’s go-to guy for all things luxurious – from exquisite watches to fine fragrances; the latest performance vehicles to intricate audio equipment, and more.
He’s often found travelling around the world to test new launches, complete with high-end backpacks and suitcases in tow. And when he’s not adding to his air miles, Sam can be found in front of a video camera, bringing his distinctive brand of storytelling to T3’s social media channels.
Sam also loves all things analogue including listening to music on vinyl or cassette, and photography on vintage film cameras.
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