Russell Sheldrake Norqain’s new independent skeleton 40mm is available in brushes and polished steel or optional DLC coatings. The almost monochromatic dial is accented with pops of turquoise or orange in the hands of seconds and text meaning COSC certification. The new independent skeleton 40mm, which shares the Sellita-based movement with the rest of the brand’s skeletonized product, starts at £3,440.
We have been fans of Norqain for a while. Whether Andrew is a wild turquoise that can’t get off his wrist, or enjoys designing custom pieces in Geneva or traveling with Manchester to see football aid, the young brand follows at every stage. So it looks great and logical to see it expanding one of the most popular collections by adding a 40mm skeletonized version to both steel and black DLC.
Norqain is famous for its skeletonized watches, and wild skeletons are probably the most recognizable model that can be produced. The independent skeleton 40mm is in the same family as the wild ones, but with some adjustments. The wild ones have a distinctive rubber shock absorbing system surrounding the case, but independence is more traditional because it is merely steel. However, its sporty case shape has a dominant crown guard and a large bumper on the other side, giving it protection and visual balance.
Before this new model was introduced, Norqain’s independent line consisted of a 42mm skeleton and a 40mm solid model. This new line bridges the gap between the two and offers a seductive look of fully skeletonized movement, but is a more familiar size of 40mm, like the new One Skeleton 39mm.
And speaking of this movement, it’s the same thing you can find across the entire skeletonized range of your brand. The NB08S is a well-ventilated variant of the ubiquitous Serrata SW200, with automatic winding, 41-hour power reserve and COSC certified.
The two models differ only in a few places, but give a completely different feel when compared to each other. The steel version maintains a sporty nature with small Polish elements adding contrast and definition throughout the case with brushing. It also features a small pop of turquoise in the hands of seconds and a chronometer text printed on glass. The DLC version is much darker and the anthracite movement appears even darker. Because of the contrast of this model, Norqain chose a bright orange pop.
Both independence skeleton 40mm variants are available with classic Norcan Rubber Straps that fit seamlessly against the case and have a granular texture at the top. However, if you prefer a bracelet, the steel version may be suitable for you as it could be an option with 3 link numbers with polished center links and brush shoulders.
Norqain Independence Skeleton 40mm Price and Availability
The new Norqain Independence Skeleton 40mm will be available soon from The Time+Tide Shop. Price: £3,440 (steel on rubber strap), £3,660 (steel on bracelet, DLC on rubber strap)
Brand Norqain Model Independence Skeleton 40mm Case Dimensions 40mm (W) x 12.05mm (T) x 46.3mm (LTL) Case Material Stainless Steel
DLC Coated Stainless Steel Water Resistance 100m Crystal Flat Sapphire Front and Back Dial Anthrara Sight, Open Lug Width 20mm Strap Color Rubber, Steel Pin Buckle
Stainless steel bracelet, foldable clasp (non-DLC model only) Movement NB08S, Serrata SW200, Automatic power reserve 41 hours functioning time, minutes, seconds availability
£3,660 (Bracelet steel, rubber strap DLC)
