Norqain enjoys life bringing the summer heat with the new Freedom 60 Chrono

Russell Sheldrake

There’s nothing better than relaxing on the beach and holding a cold ice cream in your hand. They don’t take care of the world because they daze off the bar as they ponder the next fruity cocktail. And what Norqain is channeling in its latest release is its precise carefree attitude, the Freedom 60 Chrono 40mm, enjoys life. Based on the brand’s trustworthy chronograph model, you are given a refreshing painting job with some hidden details to make this an ideal summer watch.

Dial

This is the largest and clear departure from the standard Freedom 60 Chrono, with three bright colors used across the sub-dial and external tapimeter track. These colors, blue, pink and green, were chosen to evoke the flavors of ice cream. The brand doesn’t specify exactly which flavor it is intended for, but it feels safe to assume that it has bubble gum, strawberries and mint. The rest of the dial remains crisp white with the Norqain logo printed in black, along with all the other dial text. When you divide these pastel colors into what would otherwise be a very pretty and Stark dial, this watch feels incredibly easy.

The outer tapimeter tracks are divided into a third, each of which is the same color as the corresponding subdials. This level of whimsical level of design certainly adds to Norcaine’s mission statement that he doesn’t take life too seriously, and it feels like he falls into the same level of considered design with the right amount of fun he found in Studio Underd0g.

The dial also features a controversial arrangement of 4:30 date windows, but the Twist added by Norqain here is probably the best part of this watch. The first time each month, the 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th, and 29th, the date number is replaced by a small graphic of an ice cream cone. This is a ubiquitous indication of Norcaine’s giving us a little treatment each week and reminding us all to reward the efforts we make every other day. If you’ve heard of it, it’s an important message.

case

Perhaps the most distinctive part of this 40mm case is the screwed norcaine plate attached to the side, proudly displaying the brand’s name. This adds a bit of width, but there’s nothing to apologise for this watch or this brand. They are always bold in their statements, and this detail only proves it. The remaining cases are very refined, including a thin bezel and a downwardly facing lug. I’m also a huge fan of vintage style mushroom pushers that still allows this watch to be water resistant.

The playfulness of the design is not limited to the dial. Turning over the surveillance, there is a large ice cream cone featuring the same bright colours, decorated with the motto “Enjoy life.” This obscures most views of the movement, sitting in the caseback of a sapphire crystal display, but as already explained, this watch is not for those who will make specifications or holes on a historical reference book. And cover the movement with another reminder to enjoy life when you pull out the magnifying glass and look at what’s underneath and think it’s almost perfect.

strap

The watch features a metal three-link bracelet with a brushed central link, one of the standard products of this model. Alternatively, you can choose to choose either foldable or pin buckle on a white rubber strap with Norcaine’s distinctive arrow stitching on the rug. The white strap allows the color of the dial to pop more, and certainly feels more summer to me. You may also be used to getting an extra strap or two with a recent watch, but Norqain goes a step further here and offers a pair of sunglasses for each model. The perfect accessory for the perfect summer watch.

Movement

Inside, nothing changed from the standard model as the Norqain N19 was running the show. It is based on the reliable Sellita SW510, a CAM-operated chronograph with 62-hour power reserve and quick set dates. This means that although it is a reliable movement widely used throughout the industry, it is at the critical 14.9mm thickness.

verdict

What we take so seriously is often just a fair criticism of the industry, so it’s great to be a refreshing reminder that there are still brands out there who are willing to choose a different pace in their lives. The Freedom 60 Chrono 40mm Founy Life is a very simple watch and you can’t accuse yourself of taking yourself too seriously. And with summer (the Northern Hemisphere) around the corner, it could be the perfect companion for anyone who needs a quick ice cream break.

Enjoy the price and availability of Norqain Freedom 60 Chrono 40mm Living

The Norqain Freedom 60 Chrono 40mm Fean Life Special Edition has limited production runs and orders are open. Price: 4,650 euros (rubber strap with pin buckle), 4,750 euros (matching bracelet), 4,800 euros (rubber strap with folding buckle)

Brand Norqain Model

Case Dimensions 40mm(d) x 14.9mm

Movement N19, Sellita SW510, Automatic Power Reserve 60 Hours Function Time, Minutes, Small Seconds, Chronograph Availability Limited Production Time Price €4,650 (Rubber Strap, Pin Buckle)
€4,750 (Steel bracelet)
€4,800 (rubber strap, folding grip clasp)