Since its inception in 2018, Norqain has rapidly established itself as a prominent player in the world of sporty luxury watches. Known for its attention to detail, sophisticated aesthetics, and accessible pricing, Norqain continues to impress with its latest releases. Today, we turn our attention to the Norqain Independence Skeleton Chrono 42mm, which features a groundbreaking in-house chronograph movement.
A Fresh Perspective in Watchmaking
While the influx of new watch brands has slowed since the peak of the COVID pandemic, Norqain stands out for its unique approach. Emerging as a family-owned Swiss brand, Norqain has benefited from ties with industry veterans like Jean-Claude Biver and leveraged multi-generational expertise in watchmaking. Utilizing movements from Sellita and Kenissi, as well as developing their own in-house designs, Norqain offers a range of stylish timepieces at various price points. The Independence Skeleton Chrono models exemplify this approach, presenting a compelling alternative to high-end competitors.
Design and Specifications
The Independence Skeleton Chrono comes in two distinct materials: titanium and stainless steel. Both variants share several features but differ in their execution. Measuring 41.8mm in diameter, 49.8mm in length, and 13.9mm in thickness, these watches are bold but not excessively large for their design. They boast a 100-meter water resistance rating, suitable for most activities, and are designed with robustness and lightweight characteristics in mind, as evidenced by Norqain’s promotional imagery showcasing active lifestyles.
A notable design element is the side badge, which Norqain continues to use across its models. While some find this feature outdated, the brand promotes its customization potential, which may appeal to certain customers.
Introducing the Norqain Caliber 8K Movement
One of the standout features of the Independence Skeleton Chrono is the new Norqain Caliber 8K movement. This automatic, in-house-designed caliber, crafted by Sellita’s AMT group, includes a flyback function, a 62-hour power reserve, and chronometer certification. The movement is visible through a screw-in display back, showcasing a column wheel and an Alps-themed black-coated rotor. Besides the flyback function, the 8K movement drives a 30-minute chronograph register and a running seconds sub-dial. While the 30-minute counter is adequate for many users, some may prefer additional functionality.
Model Variants
Titanium Model: The titanium version features a DLC-coated Grade 5 titanium case and is limited to 300 pieces. It is exclusively available on a purple rubber strap and is priced at €6,450. The open dial combines black and purple satin-finished elements with Super-LumiNova on the hands and indices. The regulator-style layout ensures a clean, cohesive design, and the absence of a date complication contributes to a less cluttered appearance.
Steel Model: The 316L stainless steel variant comes with either a matching bracelet or a black rubber strap. This model mirrors the titanium version’s design but replaces the purple with satin-finished black elements. Gold-plated hands and indices with Super-LumiNova provide contrast. The steel model is priced at €5,950 with the bracelet and €5,700 with the rubber strap. The steel version offers a versatile design but lacks the striking contrast of the titanium model.
Market Position and Competition
In the current market, the Norqain Independence Skeleton Chrono presents a competitive option. For comparison, the TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Extreme Sport, which costs nearly €2,000 more, features a 44mm Grade 2 titanium case and additional functionalities like a date and 12-hour counter. While brands like Zenith and Hublot offer more exotic materials and advanced movements, they often come with significantly higher price tags.
Final Thoughts
The Norqain Independence Skeleton Chrono models provide an intriguing choice for those seeking a sporty, futuristic watch with impressive specifications and attractive pricing. The introduction of the Caliber 8K movement represents a significant development in Norqain’s watchmaking journey, promising further innovation in future models.
