Up until the very end of 2013, MCT was an independent manufacture very well known and highly regarded for its signature prisms hours display mechanism and for its cushion shaped cases in watches like the Sequential One S100 and the S110 reviewed here , then, last year at Baselworld 2014, MCT decided to continue its evolution and present the Sequential Two S200 with a round-shaped case —reviewed here by us— and a top sapphire crystal that was not simply placed on the bezel, but stepped down and invisibly screwed to the case, therefore, allowing light to illuminate the prism displays from nearly every angle. Well, this time and just in time for Baselworld 2015, Manufacture Contemporaine du Temps continues to evolve and this time with a new watch named Frequential One F110 designed by Fabrice Gonet.
As expected from MCT, this new collection continues to showcase the strong creative spirit that this manufacture is very well known for. The new Frequential One F110 is fitted with a cushion-shaped case —composed of 45 parts— measuring 42 mm long by 42 mm wide and 14 mm thick. The case, made of grade 5 Titanium is DLC treated to provide an all black very rugged and extremely sporty look. Just like in the Sequential Two S200 there is a middle sapphire crystal that allows for additional light to enter the dial are and maximize legibility as well as overall looks.
Now, the star of this new watch by MCT is the stunning exposed balance wheel rising to the top and suspended at the center of the dark grey dial adorned with 'Côtes de Genève'. Additionally, the dial features a white minute track that provides the right amount of contrast to the dark nature of this new specimen, where time can be read in a more conventional way rather than with the iconic prisms previously utilized by Manufacture Contemporaine du Temps. Going back to its roots with its iconic case and its cross-shaped bridge, the MCT crest at 6 o'clock and the writing at the center of the dial complete the incredible look of this watch.
Now as if the suspended balance wheel wasn't enough, MCT decided to also add a linear power reserve indicator at 12 o'clock. The power reserve indicator displays the remaining power with a bright red accent that is a real treat for the eyes.
The new MCT Frequential One F110 is powered by the manual wound MCT-F1.0 in-house calibre composed of 279 pieces, 33 jewels, double barrels and central upper balance. This new movement features an unusual combination of a traditional display of hours and minutes with skeletonized hands and the challenge of bringing the escape wheel to the center of the movement. In order to overcome this challenge, the hour and minute hands are guided by a ball bearing and placed on a ruby roller in order to be seen outside of the perimeter of the central escapement.
The calibre is beautifully decorated with hand-chamfered bridges and 'Côtes de Genève'. The movement is fully visible via the display case back treated with anti-reflective protection on its inside. Since this is one of the first prototypes —reviewed here—, please know that the crystal its missing its AR coating at the time these pictures were taken.
The new MCT Manufacture Contemporaine du Temps Frequential One F110 is fitted with a 'Carbon Black' alligator strap that is double hand stitched and lined with hypoallergenic leather. The watch features a double deployment clasp in grade 5 Titanium DLC treated and composed of 18 parts. The Frequential One F110 is available with either anthracite or full black cross-shaped bridge.
On the wrist the watch wears true to its size and very comfortable just like all other MCT watches we have reviewed before. The central exposed balance makes for this watch one of our favorites at Baselworld 2015 and one that when you see in person, you will probably end up having to get.
Sticker Price CHF44,500 Ex VAT. For more info on MCT click here.
