Since 2009, Frederique Constant has collaborated with the Riva Historical Society, a Milan-based association founded in 1998, dedicated to the preservation and restoration of classic Riva boats. Piero Mario Gibellini and Carlo Riva founded this non-profit organization, whose purpose is to preserve the worldwide patrimony of the established Riva heritage.
To celebrate this partnership, each year Frederique Constant creates a limited-edition Runabout timepiece inspired by the timeless 1920s Riva boats. The handcrafted wooden powerboats take you on an adventure of the Italian dolce vita. Both brands share the common values of precise engineering and timeless elegant designs.
Ever since its first launch, the Runabout automatic collection has been a success. Frederique Constant is honored to pursue this collaboration and contribute to maintain the patrimony of these classic yachts.
The Runabout range features two new automatic models: a 42 mm stainless steel and a rose gold plated case. The cases undergo a polishing treatment, reminiscent to the lustrous appearance of the Riva boats.
Protected by a convex sapphire crystal, the navy-blue dial bears Frederique Constant’s classic hobnail pattern with a central guilloche which breaks up the dial. The Arabic numerals, indexes, and hands are completed with a luminous treatment. The final detail on the dial is the date window at 6 o’clock with a magnifying lens. Around the outer rim of the dial, the minutes are displayed.
Both models are powered by a FC-303 automatic caliber. The 26 jewel Swiss-made caliber, beating at 28’800 times per hour, and a 38-hour power reserve; the movement is protected by 10-meter water-resistant case that is perfect for boating.
An elegant detail is the see-through sapphire case back, revealing the automatic mechanism. Distinguished by the engraving of the Riva Historical Society flag. To complete the look of these watches, it bears a navy leather strap with white stitching.
Both the stainless steel and rose gold-plated Runabout models are exclusively limited to 2’888 pieces. Faithful to its tradition, each of the models is delivered in a special limited-edition box including a miniature wooden replica of the Riva boat. They pay tribute to the iconic designs of the elegant roaring twenties sports boats.