Latest Review
Good things are worth the wait, according to Frederique Constant. Every two years, the Geneva-based watchmaker releases a new collector’s piece in their sought-after Classics Runabout collection, which represents, according to the brand, the combination of Genevan craftsmanship and Italian nautical influence. The 2026 model has been, of course, highly-anticipated; the Classics Runabout Automatic GMT represents a new chapter in Frederique Constant’s celebrated line.
The new GMT model, presented in collaboration with the Riva Historical Society, brings a 42mm footprint and two colorways: deep blue and teak-brown. Both models and their aesthetics are inspired by boats restored by the Riva Historical Society, and come with a miniature replica of said boat. The polished stainless steel case features three-part construction, and a midrange thickness of 12.85mm, giving it a decently chunky presence on the wrist. Still, the larger size is deceptive, given the bezel-less design; the GMT instead features an outer 60-second track, and a center 24-hour disk, giving it a filled-out look that slims the watch down visually. Arabic numerals appear at 12, 3, and 9 o’clock, and hand-applied indexes fill in the remainder of the hour markers, with a date window nestled at 6 o’clock. What results is a balanced dial that feels both busy and calm, given the limited color pallet, with blue and brown dial options both rounded out by beige-gold numerals and text details. All hands and indexes are coated in beige old radium luminous treatment for extra visibility, as are the hour numerals.
At the center of the dial, a vertical line pattern is printed, echoing the foredeck design of the boats from which the GMT draws inspiration. It’s a simple detail that overwhelmingly signals the nautical themes, a clever nod that makes the watch a subtle nod rather than a screaming broadcast. Vertical satin finishing on the main dial gives the watch a further luxurious look, and the overall dressy aesthetic is a nice break from other oceanic-themed timepieces, which tend to lean in heavily to either dive or sport watch conventions.
Inside the GMT is an FC-350 caliber automatic movement, which powers hour, minute, seconds, date, and GMT functions, and operates on a 38-hour power reserve when fully wound. With 26 jewels, and vertical Côtes de Genève finishing on the bridges, the movement is visible through the smoked sapphire exhibition caseback, which also bears a sailing flag motif, and “LIMITED EDITION ONE OF 888” text. Indeed, the GMT is limited to 888, and each comes with the replica boat mentioned above, along with a rather luxurious display box. Each GMT comes on a black rubber strap with tone-on-tone stitching and a pin buckle, though press photos also show the brown model on a leather strap.
With luxury touches, an eminently useful GMT function, and subtle nods to the Riva Historical Society’s beautiful boats, the Frederique Constant Classic Runabout Automatic GMT should please collectors who have waited two years for the latest Classic Runabout release. 88 pieces will be available, with each retailing for $2,695. Frederique Constant
