When Norqain was launched in 2018, big watches remained the norm for many consumers. Fast forward seven years ago, buyers enjoy moderately sized watch options. Additionally, the brand is currently offering watches that could appeal to women. Norqain does not ignore the transition to a small clock. This March, the catalog’s biggest seller, 39mm Wild, debuted in a fantastic review. Now there is a new independent skeleton 40mm, offering a smaller option compared to the 42mm version.
It took me years to warm up to the idea of an openwork dial as a vintage watch nut. I love mechanical items so I don’t know why. Regardless of my past concerns, I understand my interest in these visually and technically complex parts. While several brands compete in this market, Norqain nails the concept. why is that? Compared to others, the company has a friendly approach and, despite it being less expensive, the watches are more affordable. Today’s new independent skeleton 40mm model is a sparkling example.
Independent skeleton 40mm
As the name suggests, the latest independent model has a diameter of 40mm. With a length of 46.3mm including flat sapphire crystal and a thickness of 12.05mm, this watch fits within the range of universal sweet spot decorative possibilities. Norqain offers two case variants in this first deployment. The regular 316L stainless steel model combines into a black DLC coated variant. The depth rating is reasonable at 100 meters.
Both pieces are available in a variety of strap or bracelet options. Standard stainless steel models can be paired with an anthracite rubber strap with foldable fine-tuned clasp. Three rows of stainless steel bracelets with similar folding clasps are also available. Naturally, the black DLC version can only be used with rubber straps. The khaki or black option goes well with dark cases and features a Milanese pattern.
A familiar case design
The independent skeleton 40mm has a carved case with a variety of features. Unlike the wild ones, it is not a complex or multipurpose case, but polished, brushed, explosive surfaces increase the level of complexity. However, this styling allows it to be recognized as a Norcane watch. This includes a recessed section of the lug, a crown guard with a bold under-screw crown, and a counterbalanced Norqain plate on the left. Let me say a few words about that final detail. Normally I’m dead for case-side language, but after meeting with the brand and hearing that I can remove these plates and personalize them, I think it’s a great attribute. Furthermore, Norqain quickly mentioned that this customization can be done by skilled third-party sculptors, a refreshing, relaxed approach to customization.
A completely fascinating dial and case back
Each independent skeleton 40mm proudly shows off automatic movement from both sides. The openwork anthracite dial works with a skeletonized hand and a white Super Luminova X1. Their rare hautes and fine tracks are finished in matching shades, the latter adorned with applied bright indexes. The stainless steel version adds aqua details to the tip of seconds and the tip of the “chronometer” text. This color switches to orange on the black DLC model. Overall, the design is clean and relatively easy to read about the dial with this level of detail.
The independent skeleton 40mm uses the Sellita SW200-1
Find the brand’s NB08 within a separate skeleton 40mm and under a screwed case with a sapphire display. This is the chronometer certified Sellita SW200-1 with a made-to-order Norqain Rotor. Aside from the accuracy of the COSC level, the frequency of this movement is 28,800 VPH and 41 hours of power reserve. The Power Reserve didn’t put off me, but I’d love to see Norkan push this further to avoid criticism.
Availability and pricing
The New Independence Skeleton 40mm model is available from today on the Norqain website and on the authorized dealership. The positive is that these will become part of our core collection, not limited edition. Regarding pricing, the stainless steel model is available for 3,950 euros for rubber and 4,200 euros for bracelets. The price of the DLC variant is 4,160 euros for either elastic strap color. These prices match other brands’ products and are competitive against other brands within the segment. Norqain is now growing year by year. This is an impressive feat in this market. Releases like this latest one should only be useful by making the watch more accessible to a wider range of wrists. I look forward to practicing these as soon as possible.
View specifications
Model
Independent skeleton 40mm
reference
N3008.07S01.G01.R01 (Steel of anthralacite rubber) / N3008.07S01.G01.S01 (Steel on bracelet) / N3008.07B01.G01.R01 (DLC on KHAKI rubber band) / N3008.07B01.G01.R01)
Dial
Anthracite opened work with transparent plates and applied luminescent indexes
Case Material
316L Stainless Steel / 316L Black Diamond-like Carbon (DLC) Coated Stainless Steel
Case dimensions
40mm (diameter) x 46.3mm (length) x 12.05mm (thickness)
crystal
Flat sapphire with anti-erective coating
Case back
Stainless steel or black DLC treated stainless steel with sapphire crystal, screwed
Movement
Norqain NB08S (Selita SW200-1 based): Automatic winding, 28,800VPH frequency, 41 hour power reserve, 26 gems, chronometer certified
water resistance
100 meters
strap
Folding clasp and micro-adjusting (stainless steel) / Black anchloracetic rubber or stainless steel bracelet with khaki or folding clasp (black DLC) / Khaki or black rubber
function
Hours (hours, minutes, seconds)
price
€3,950 (Stainless Steel with Rubber) / €4,200 (Stainless Steel with Bracelet) / €4,160 (Black DLC with Rubber)
guarantee
2 years and an additional 1 year warranty when joining the Norqainer community