In 2012, Frederique Constant introduces the ‘Venice Editions’ of the Runabout, consisting of a Chronograph version and a Three-hand Automatic with date. Both timepieces feature a stainless steel case and a silvered dial with applied, rose gold plated Arabic indexes. A light brown strap with off-white stitching accentuates the rose gold plated indexes on the dial. Our Italian clientele defined this sophisticated combination of design elements. This year Frederique Constant hosts the Runabout Challenge in Venice, Italy, so it was only logical to design the Runabout Venice Edition, based on the input from the Italian market. The outcome is a beautiful collection! But then again, it’s not for nothing that Italy has always been famous for its sense of style…
The new models are available in a limited editions of 1’888 pieces per version. Featuring a case diameter of 43mm and presented in stainless steel, the new Runabout Venice Editions offer finely decorated silvered dials. With a delicate guilloche decoration at the centre, hand-applied Arabic indexes, and perfectly positioned Chronograph counters, these watches exude an uncluttered elegance, just like the Runabout yachts by which they were inspired. Through the sapphire case-back, the decorated automatic movement can be admired. Traditionally, each Runabout timepiece comes with its own luxurious, handmade wooden case that echoes the passionate craftsmanship of the yachts. Alongside the watch, a miniature reproduction of a classic Runabout boat can be found inside the unique gift box.
Runabout
A Runabout is a gentlemen’s motorboat holding between four and eight people, well suited to moving about on the water. The first runabouts date back to the 1920s and were originally small, fast, powerful varnished wooden boats created to take advantage of the power of a V8 inboard engine. In order to gain speed, the hull shape had to be designed to take advantage of hydroplaning; a hydrofoil-like design would allow the boat to skim atop the water’s surface at high speed instead of needing to push aside large quantities of water to move forward. A classic Runabout boat is a design icon, a moving sculpture in wood, chrome and glass that commands attention wherever it goes. Add to this a long list of famous owners and an association with exotic Mediterranean locations such as Monaco and San Tropez, and it is no wonder that the Runabout has, over time, become a legend. The iconic style of Runabouts frequently features in advertisements and editorials.
Runabout Automatic, Venice Limited Edition:
Reference: FC-303RV6B6
Limited edition of 1888 pieces, delivered in a special gift box with a Runabout boat miniature
Movement: FC-303 Automatic winding caliber with date, 28’800 Bph, 26 jewels, Côte de Genève and perlage decoration, 38h power reserve
Case: Polished stainless steel, diameter of 43 mm
Convex sapphire crystal, See-through caseback secured
by 6 screws
Water-resistant to 10 ATM
Caseback with special engraving of Venice and the Rialto bridge
Dial: Silvered dial with central “Pavé de Paris guilloché” decoration
Hand polished Shiny Rose gold plated Arabic applied indexes
Hand polished Shiny Rose gold plated Hands, white luminous
Date at 3 o’clock
Strap: Light brown Croco Calf strap with off-white stiching, folding buckle
Runabout Chronograph, Venice Limited Edition
Reference: FC-392RV6B6
Limited edition of 1888 pieces, delivered in a special gift box with a Runabout boat miniature
Movement: FC-392 Chronograph Automatic winding caliber with date, 28’800 Bph, 25 jewels, Côte de Genève and perlage decoration, 46h power reserve
Case: Polished stainless steel case, diameter of 43 mm
Convex sapphire crystal, See-through caseback secured
by 6 screws
Water-resistant to 10 ATM
Caseback with special engraving of Venice and the Rialto bridge
Dial: Silvered dial with central “Pavé de Paris guilloché” decoration
Hand polished Shiny Rose gold plated Arabic applied indexes
Hand polished Shiny Rose gold plated Hands, white luminous
Date at 6 o’clock
Strap: Light brown Croco Calf strap with off-white stiching, folding buckle
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