This exclusive Time+Tide and Frederique Constant collaboration introduces a refined version of the Highlife luxury sports watch, limited to only 100 units. It boasts a sophisticated black onyx dial and a new in-house movement, distinguishing it from other models. The watch's design, blending timeless elegance with modern aesthetics, makes it a notable piece in the world of horology, appealing to both enthusiasts and collectors.
Detailed Exploration of the Time+Tide x Frederique Constant Highlife Moonphase Date Manufacture Onyx Moon
In a compelling partnership between Time+Tide and Frederique Constant, a remarkable timepiece, the Highlife Moonphase Date Manufacture Onyx Moon, has emerged. This special edition, limited to merely 100 units globally, presents a captivating aesthetic with its profound black onyx dial, setting it apart in the luxury sports watch arena. Released in January 2026, this collaboration redefines the Highlife series, first introduced in 2020.
The watch features a compact 39mm diameter case, a reduction from the standard 41mm, providing a more refined and contemporary fit. At its core lies the in-house caliber FC-716, a movement previously exclusive to Frederique Constant's traditional Manufacture collections. This choice of movement endows the Highlife Moonphase Date Manufacture Onyx Moon with a unique technical prestige, elevating its status beyond typical Highlife iterations.
A striking element of this timepiece is its unadorned black onyx dial, which eschews traditional hour markers, creating a bold and confident visual statement. This minimalist design is complemented by a moonphase indicator, imbuing the watch with a sense of enduring tradition. The hands, crafted from faceted, brushed, and polished metal, ensure clarity against the deep black background without the need for luminescent materials. Subtle red accents, such as the word “Genève” and the “31” on the date scale, offer a discrete touch of color, harmonizing with the black, star-studded sky of the moonphase display.
The automatic FC-716 caliber, an improved version introduced last year, boasts an impressive 72-hour power reserve, nearly double that of previous Frederique Constant movements. This enhanced power efficiency necessitated a redesign of the bridges, which, along with the large balance wheel, are visible through the sapphire case back. The movement's fan-shaped Côtes de Genève decoration and blued screws highlight Frederique Constant's commitment to exquisite craftsmanship.
Designed for comfort and style, the 39mm case, with a length of 45mm and a thickness of 12.79mm, offers an effortless wearing experience. It comes paired with an integrated Jubilee-style five-row steel bracelet, featuring a sophisticated blend of brushed and polished finishes. For those seeking versatility, the watch includes a quick-release system, allowing for easy interchangeability with an additional black nubuck-style leather strap and a black textured rubber strap.
The Highlife Moonphase Date Manufacture Onyx Moon is available for purchase at €4,895, £4,350, or US$5,695, with 50 pieces distributed by Frederique Constant and the remaining 50 by Time+Tide, making it a highly sought-after collectible.
This limited-edition timepiece serves as a testament to the power of collaborative design and meticulous craftsmanship. Its fusion of a modern luxury sports watch aesthetic with a classic moonphase complication offers a fresh perspective on horology. The enigmatic onyx dial, coupled with a technically advanced in-house movement, challenges conventional design norms while honoring watchmaking heritage. For collectors and enthusiasts, it's a reminder that true innovation often lies in thoughtful refinement and the courage to simplify, creating a piece that is not just a timekeeper but a conversation starter and a future classic.