The Accelerating Evolution into a Comprehensive Luxury Brand

Meanwhile, their watchmaking has also seen remarkable progress. The best-selling Franck Muller model in 2015 wasthe "Vanguard" announced in 2014Its dynamic form breathed a new urban sensibility into watches, and it was hailed as a fresh interpretation of the tonneau case. We've heard feedback from shops that traditionally saw strong sales of ladies' watches, reporting that sales have shifted towards men's models due to its popularity.

This year, the "Vanguard" lineup has been significantly enhanced. For men, new additions include a skeleton-type tourbillon and a uniquely designed golf-motif model. The ladies' collection is also exceptionally rich, and I was particularly intrigued by the design endeavor that fusesthe "Vanguard"withthe "Long Island."I would like to detail these, as well as introduce the new moon phase model for the "Casablanca," a perennial classic for men.the "Casablanca"I intend to cover.

Page02.Complications Emphasizing Strength

Complications Emphasizing Strength

Among the new "Vanguard" models, the "Vanguard Skeleton Tourbillon" particularly caught my eye. While complex mechanical timepieces with see-through designs that allow appreciation of the internal mechanisms are often described with words like "delicate" or "artistic," these terms do not quite apply to the "Vanguard Skeleton Tourbillon."

The etched mainplate and bridges of the movement might seem delicate at first glance, but they possess a powerful presence. Material has been meticulously removed from the frames, and the resulting shapes are not soft curves but rather employ straight lines that evoke a sense of speed. The decoration retains the texture of the gold material, while a beautiful hairline finish lends a subdued impression, evoking an architectural structure. The arrangement of the going barrel, gear train at 12 o'clock, and the tourbillon carriage at 6 o'clock presents a powerfully dynamic "mechanism" itself.

The black accents and the dynamic case design further accentuate the watch's robustness. Its presence is massive, almost overwhelming.

Page03.A Golf Watch Capable of Recording Strokes

A Golf Watch Capable of Recording Strokes

This "Vanguard Backswing" is a model exclusively for golf. You can tell this at a glance. The case, dial, and even the strap are finished with dimples, like a golf ball, thoroughly embodying the world of golf. The dynamic "Vanguard" itself is amplified into an even more powerful form through this surface treatment.

Furthermore, its functionality has been carefully considered. First, it can record the strokes for each hole. With each stroke, simply press the button at the 10 o'clock position. The small hand in the center of the dial will then advance, pointing to the numbers around it, one by one. Upon completing a hole, transfer the number to your scorecard and press the button at the 8 o'clock position. The small hand will then reset to zero. The method is remarkably simple and allows for smart stroke recording.

Additionally, this watch features ingenious shock absorption measures. Peeking through the see-through case back, you'll find a rubber shock absorber set within the case, positioned as if fitted into the center of the movement. This design is intended to mitigate the impact transmitted to the internal mechanism.

For golf enthusiasts and watch aficionados alike, this watch is an ideal companion for those who wish to wear a humorous mechanical timepiece, rather than a purely functional one, onto the course.

Vanguard™ Backswing
Case│Stainless Steel / Titanium
Size│Length 53.7 x Width 44mm
Movement│Automatic Winding
Functions│Stroke Count Recording (Count with button at 10 o'clock, reset with button at 8 o'clock)
Strap│Calfskin + Rubber
Water Resistance│Daily Use
Release Period│Undecided
Price│Undecided

Page04.A Fusion of Two Personalities Created Exclusively for Women

A Fusion of Two Personalities Created Exclusively for Women

"Is this only for ladies?" you might wonder, hearing the response to this "Vanguard Long Island."

The defining characteristic of this model, as the name suggests, is the fusion of the new "Vanguard" model with the long-standing classic, "Long Island."

The basic silhouette of the case is the rectangular shape of the "Long Island." Details from the "Vanguard" have been added to create the Long Island™ Vanguard™ design. The bezel, slightly wider at the top and bottom (12 and 6 o'clock positions), and the strap, combining crocodile leather with a rubber backing, are details inherited from the "Vanguard."

The font for the indices is close to Byzantine numerals but has a subtly different, more playful feel. The style of raising the edges is characteristic of the "Vanguard."

While retaining the classic essence of the "Long Island," the modern elements of the "Vanguard" are highlighted. The sparkle of the diamonds set on the bezel further enhances its feminine elegance. This new design is sophisticated and offers a beauty perfectly suited for women who live life freely today.

Long Island™ Vanguard™
Case│18K White Gold
Size│Length 36.4 x Width 23mm
Movement│Automatic / Quartz
Strap│Crocodile + Rubber
Water Resistance│Daily Use
Release Period│Undecided
Estimated Price│Undecided

Page05.A Moon Phase Appears on a Timeless Classic

A Moon Phase Appears on a Timeless Classic

Introducing the "Casablanca Luna," the first moon phase model for the "Casablanca."

Hearing this, many fans might wonder, "Wait, wasn't there already a moon phase model?" The "Casablanca" was born in 1994 and has been an ultra-long seller for over 20 years. Inspired by the city of Casablanca in Morocco, this model features a steel case and a durable calfskin strap, reminiscent of a travel bag, designed for use even in desert sandstorms. The dial deliberately omits UV treatment, allowing for an appreciation of the patina that develops over time, much like an antique watch.

This concept proved popular, and its accessible price point has cemented its status as Franck Muller's entry-level model. Therefore, hearing that this is the first moon phase model after more than 20 years of variations comes as a surprise.

The moon phase complication blends seamlessly with the model's theme, evoking the romance of the desert and journeys. Indeed, ancient travel was inseparable from celestial movements, and this theme perfectly complements the desert landscape.

Casablanca Luna
Case│Stainless Steel
Size│Length 45 x Width 32mm
Movement│Automatic Winding
Functions│Moon Phase
Strap│Calfskin
Water Resistance│Daily Use
Release Period│Now Available
Price│1,200,000 JPY (excluding tax)