ReviewSummer Skeletons: Norqain’s New Independence Wild One—The Skeleton Edition
Swiss ‘micro-brand’ Norqain have released two new striking models in their Wild One series: the Skeleton Fresh Turquoise and Skeleton Burgundy
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Norqain, the Swiss micro-brand known for their modern sports watches, welcomed summer this year with the launch of two vibrant new models in their Wild One series: The Wild One Skeleton in fresh turquoise and in burgundy. Designed in collaboration with industry veteran Jean-Claude Biver, these striking timepieces strike a balance between style and performance, and are being promoted by Italian Olympic swimmer Filippo Magnini. Building on the successful Independence Wild One, these new models incorporate a skeletonised movement from the Independence Skeleton collection. While their predecessor was lauded for its restrained design and durability, the new Wild One Skeleton watches elevate these features with a fresh colour palette that perfectly captures the essence of summer.
Merging Performance And Style: The New Skeleton Wild One
Both the turquoise and burgundy models of Norqain’s Wild One Skeleton series sport the same marbled-effect Norteq case, measuring 42mm in diameter and 12.3mm in thickness. The intricately designed case is made of 25 components and has an impressive shock resistance of up to 5,000g. When Norqain say their watches can withstand forces of ‘5,000g’, they’re talking about their resistance to shock. This measurement, used widely in the watch industry, reveals the watch’s capacity to resist mechanical failure or performance degradation under extreme gravitational forces. Just to give some context: an astronaut only experiences about 3g during the launch and re-entry of a spacecraft. A watch with resistance up to 5,000g means it can endure significant shocks and vibrations, from being dropped and sudden movements, to knocking against hard surfaces—typical in sports or outdoor activities. In simpler terms, when Norqain say their watches can pass a 5,000g test, they’re saying their watches are built incredibly tough. They can handle heavy impacts while still keeping accurate time and working properly.
A look into the construction of the case reveals the various layers: the external Norteq cage, followed by a rubber shock absorber, and a titanium container that holds the movement. A unique feature of the carbon fibre composite is its ability to be dyed in various colours, adding to the aesthetic appeal.
The turquoise Wild One Skeleton is the more vibrant model, with a black marbled case complemented by bright turquoise rubber accents on the left lateral shock absorber, crown guards, rubber seals, and the matching rubber strap with a black border. The Burgundy model showcases a more subdued design with a burgundy-coloured marbled Norteq cage, black rubber shock absorbers, crown guards, rubber seals, and straps. Both models are marked with Norqain’s signature plaque on the left side of the case.
The Wild One Skeleton And Norqain’s Sustainability Statement
The proprietary Norteq material used in the construction of the case is an advanced, lightweight, and corrosion-resistant material that was created in partnership with BIWI SA. The material demonstrates Norqain’s commitment to sustainability, as it is derived from 60-peercent bio-sourced material from castor oil and any waste from the manufacturing process is fully recycled and upcycled.
The Wild One Skeleton Celebrates Summer
Taking a closer look at the Wild One Skeleton in fresh turquoise, one can’t help but admire the eye-catching colour. The rubber shock absorber and strap, decked out in bright turquoise, are reminiscent of sunny days by the pool. Aesthetics aside, the watch offers an intriguing view of the inner workings of the Norqain calibre NN08S through its skeletonised dial. The turquoise accents on the dial only serve to enhance its charm.
An Ode to the Setting Sun
In contrast, the Wild One Skeleton in burgundy, reminiscent of a setting sun, is a limited edition of 300 pieces. This model follows the colour trend that garnered immense popularity after the initial Wild One’s launch in 2022. The watch stands out with its mass-dyed carbon fibre composite case in burgundy, and red gold-plated indexes and hands.
A Look Inside The Wild One Skeleton
Both models are powered by the automatic movement calibre NN08S, based on the Sellita SW200 calibre’s skeletonised version. This robust Swiss movement operates at 28,800vph and offers a power reserve of 41 hours. The caseback of the watches offers a clear view of this calibre, with the burgundy model featuring an engraving that reads ‘limited edition—one of 300’.
The Wild Ones
Norqain have carved out a reputation for producing high-quality watches, and many believe that despite the higher price tags, these watches offer good value for money. A potential area of concern, however, is Norqain’s frequent use of the term ‘limited edition’. While it certainly adds exclusivity to the timepieces, an overuse of the term might dilute its significance over time.
Norqain’s new Wild One Skeleton models are definitely interesting. We feel they aim to make a bold statement in the luxury watch market and compete directly with watches from more established brands. Whether they manage to carve a niche in this competitive segment remains to be seen, but they undeniably offer something fresh and exciting to both young and seasoned watch enthusiasts.
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NORQAIN Independence
NNQ3000QBQ1AS/B007/3W1QBR.20BQ
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NORQAIN Independence
NNQ3000QUB1LAS/B008/3W1BR.20RQ
