Earlier this month, I featured the release of the Norqain Independence Skeleton 40mm. Due to the compact case design and dimensions, I was relatively enthusiastic about watches. I also wanted to see more, so I sent a message to the people of Norqain UK and quickly dispatched a stainless steel and black DLC version for a week-long test drive. I’m glad you shared my thoughts!
I have always had an interesting relationship with openwork and skeletonized watches. Back in high school, I owned a fake fossil version when they were all angry. Then, a few years later, brands like Hublot, Zenith and Tag Heuer transformed the style into a mainstream sub-genre. I’m not averse to these watches, but I always tend to prefer more conservative styling. So Norqain was independent skeletons and one-one lines, and wasn’t always on my radar. But I opened my mind and although I’m still quite boring, I really enjoyed my time with these watches.
Norqain Independence Skeleton 40mm – A brief overview
Aptly, Norqain released a new independent skeleton in a smaller 40mm size on July 4th, American Independence Day. This watch follows the 39mm Wild One release from May, and for those with smaller wrists, it’s great to see these additions in the catalog. Thanks to the 46.3mm lug-to-lug with reasonable sound, I felt the watch could fit me perfectly.
As mentioned before, I received two watches to try it for about a week. The black DLC version comes with an olive rubber strap, while the stainless steel model comes with a black rubber accompaniment. Both are equipped with signed pin buckles.
Some extensive wear
It had a very hot start to the UK summer. From a clock perspective, it means choosing a simple and comfortable piece that can withstand water and outdoor activities, such as dog walking, lawn mowing, gardening. I decided to clean up the eco-drive for a week and I was intentionally wearing a separate skeleton throughout the day.
General thoughts
When the watches arrived I took the time to inspect them carefully. In my opinion, Norqain has created watches that feel expensive. I feel the case comes from a mature, large branded watch. This means that every edge is sharp from sharp point without feeling cheap.
I also have to admit that the small nameplate on the left side of the case looks good. It flushes badly without a screw head so it doesn’t feel like a kitsch add-on. As Norqain likes to mention, this plate is custom engraved in-house or by a third party. From above, the “ears” balance the opposite crown and crown guard. The exterior is beautiful, compact and relatively sporty.
Get used to skeletons
Let’s publish this. Skeleton dial watches are not as easy to read as traditional closed dial works. For a separate 40mm skeleton, hours and minutes hands will disappear on the dial. I learned to look at the watch at a slight angle and exposed the tip of my bright hands, which worked. Again, I’m a rookie so it took me a while to adjust. That said, I’ve grown to like the look of these watches.
Honestly, the details of the open dial are great for both versions. Surprisingly, bits like coated bridges, gems and main springs are still fun to look into after enjoying all these years’ clocks. Also, the “chronometer” text, which contrasts with the floating script, is clean and uncovered.
NB08S is correct on time
Norqain uses a chronometer certified Sellita SW200-1 within a 40mm independent skeleton. The view through the sapphire caseback is on a snuff with a dial and includes a coated skeletonized rotor. The case and crown are screwed into the case to support the watch’s 100m depth rating. The latter was sturdy, easy to screw in and easy to remove. As for timekeeping, when I wear my watch for a week, I compare my time with my phone. Certainly, the chronometer grade movement supported the end of the bargain and I didn’t need to adjust it.
Most important specifications – how did the watch feel on my wrist?
On the day I wore an independent skeleton, I shot Robert Jean into a note and said, “Hey, I really love wearing this watch.” He wasn’t surprised because he’s more open-minded than me, but I was! What a fun watch to wear and enjoy. I continued to look down at my wrist. We walked around and walked the dog. The look was very different from my typical choice, so it felt like a novel experience. Above all, the watch fits beautifully. The cases have a presence, but they didn’t feel clunky or big. Secondly, rubber straps were well made, and the brand was praised for choosing a pin buckle instead of a thick, unrated folding clasp.
If you are seduced, you will not be disappointed
I’m clearly hanging out with a vintage-focused crowd, so watches like the Norqain Independence Skeleton aren’t necessarily in their wheelhouse. However, if you have a slight interest in modern openwork watches, the independent skeleton 40mm is a sweet choice. The price of the stainless steel model with rubber straps starts at 3,950 euros, so it’s not disposable money. However, this Norqain is not an arbitrary fashion watch. Rather, it is a great addition to a traditional collection. Lower your hair and think about it in a classy and responsible way.
