Introducing: The Norqain Independence Skeleton 40mm
When Norqain launched in 2018, larger watches were still the norm for many consumers. Fast-forward seven years, and buyers now enjoy the option of a moderately sized timepiece. Additionally, brands are now offering watches that may appeal to women. Norqain isn’t ignoring the shift to smaller watches. This March, a 39mm Wild One, the biggest seller in the catalog, debuted to great reviews. Now there’s a new Independence Skeleton 40mm, which offers a downsized option compared to the 42mm version.
As a vintage-watch nut, it has taken me years to warm up to the idea of an openworked dial. I’m not sure why, though, because I love mechanical items. Regardless of my past concerns, I understand the interest in these visually and technically complex pieces. Several brands compete in this market, but Norqain has nailed the concept. Why is that? Compared to others, the company has a friendlier approach and, despite not being inexpensive, the watches are more affordable. Today’s new Independence Skeleton 40mm models are shining examples.
The Independence Skeleton 40mm
As the name implies, the latest Independence models have a 40mm diameter. With a 46.3mm length and a 12.05mm thickness, inclusive of the flat sapphire crystal, the watch fits within the universal sweet-spot range of wearability. Norqain is offering two case variants in this initial roll-out. A regular 316L stainless steel model joins a black DLC-coated variant. The depth rating is reasonable at 100 meters.
Both pieces are available on a variety of strap or bracelet options. The standard stainless model can be paired with an anthracite rubber strap complete with a folding micro-adjustable clasp. There’s also a three-row stainless steel bracelet on offer with a similar folding clasp. Understandably, the black DLC version is only available with rubber straps. Khaki or black options suit the dark case well and feature a Milanese pattern.
A familiar case design
The Independence Skeleton 40mm has a sculpted case with various features. Unlike the Wild One, it’s not a composite or multi-material case, but polished, brushed, and blasted surfaces raise the level of complexity. However, the styling makes it recognizable as a Norqain watch. This includes a hollowed-out section on the lugs, protruding crown guards with a bold screw-down crown, and a counterbalancing Norqain plate on the left side. Let’s have a word about that last detail. Normally, I’m dead set against verbiage on the case sides, but after meeting with the brand and hearing that these plates can be removed and personalized, I think it’s a nice attribute. Plus, Norqain was quick to mention that this customization can be done by any skilled third-party engraver, a refreshingly relaxed approach to customization.
Full-visibility dials and case backs
Each Independence Skeleton 40mm proudly shows off its automatic movement from both sides. The openworked anthracite dials work with skeletonized hands and white Super-LumiNova X1. Their rehauts and minute tracks are finished in a matching shade, and the latter is adorned with applied luminous indexes. The stainless steel version adds aqua details on the tip of the seconds hand and the “chronometer” text. This color switches to orange on the black DLC model. Overall, the designs are clean and relatively legible for dials with this level of detail.
The Independence Skeleton 40mm uses a Sellita SW200-1
Inside the Independence Skeleton 40mm and under a screw-in case back with a sapphire display, we find the brand’s NB08S. This is a chronometer-certified Sellita SW200-1 with a bespoke Norqain rotor. Aside from COSC levels of accuracy, the movement has a frequency of 28,800vph and 41 hours of power reserve. While the power reserve wouldn’t put me off, I’d love to see Norqain push this further to avoid criticism.
Availability and pricing
The new Independence Skeleton 40mm models are available beginning today on the Norqain website and at authorized dealers. A positive is that these aren’t limited editions and become part of the core collection. Regarding pricing, the stainless model is available for €3,950 on rubber and €4,200 on the bracelet. The DLC variant is priced at €4,160 on either rubber strap color. Those prices are in line with the rest of the brand’s offerings and are competitive against other brands in the segment. Norqain is currently growing year over year, an impressive feat in this market. A release like this latest one should only help by making the watches more accessible to a wider range of wrists. We’ll look forward to going hands-on with these as soon as possible.
