Frederique Constant Runabout GMT
With America’s 250th anniversary celebrations bringing Tall Ships into New York Harbor and other ports across the country this summer, it’s a perfect time to take a look at watches inspired by life on the water. While sailing ships may dominate the festivities, Frederique Constant’s newest Classics Runabout Automatic GMT celebrates another enduring nautical icon: the elegant wooden Runabout boats that have graced lakes and coastlines for nearly a century.
Frederique Constant Classics Runabout Automatic GMT
retails for $2,695
Since 2009, Frederique Constant has partnered with the Riva Historical Society to honor these beautifully restored wooden craft through its limited-edition Runabout collection. The newest versions add adds a Manufacture GMT movement while staying true to the collection’s unmistakable maritime style.
The 42mm stainless steel watch is offered in two limited editions of 888 pieces each, with a navy dial and navy strap, or with a rich teak-brown dial and color coordinated strap. It is the dial itself that immediately catches the eye.
Frederique Constant Classics Runabout Automatic GMT
Its vertically brushed center is designed to resemble the hand-laid teak decking found on classic Runabout boats, creating a subtle texture that evokes polished wood without becoming overly literal. Surrounding concentric rings neatly organize the display, with a 24-hour GMT scale at the center, a date aperture at 6 o’clock, and applied Arabic numerals paired with slender baton markers for a clean, vintage-inspired look.
Inside is Frederique Constant’s automatic FC-350 Manufacture GMT caliber with a 38-hour power reserve, visible through the sapphire caseback with Geneva stripe finishing and the Riva Historical Society logo.
Priced at $2,695, the Classics Runabout Automatic GMT comes on a black rubber strap and is presented in a collector’s box complete with a miniature Runabout boat—a fitting tribute to one of boating’s most enduring designs.
The case back of the Frederique Constant Classics Runabout Automatic GMT depicts the Riva Historical Society logo.
