Frédérique Constant Classics Carrée Heart Beat Automatic Watch

This is a luxury Men's Frédérique Constant wristwatch, model reference FC-310/315X5C24/5/6, featuring a distinctive rectangular (Carrée) stainless steel case with a high-polish finish. The dial is a silver-toned sunray finish with a central guilloché textured pattern, bordered by prominent black Roman numeral hour markers in a radial arrangement. A signature 'Heart Beat' aperture is located at the 12 o'clock position, exposing the balance wheel of the automatic movement and showcasing a visible ruby jewel. The watch is fitted with spade-style black hands and a matching black seconds hand. It is mounted on a brown alligator-pattern leather strap with white contrast stitching. The dial is marked 'FREDERIQUE CONSTANT GENEVE' and 'SWISS MADE' at the bottom. The condition appears well-maintained with minor superficial scuffing visible on the polished bezel, consistent with gentle use. The crystal appears clear without significant scratching. The style is Neo-Classical, typical of the brand's production from the early-to-mid 2010s, emphasizing traditional Swiss watchmaking aesthetics through its tank-style geometry and exposed mechanical elements.

I have conducted a visual examination of the Frédérique Constant Classics Carrée Heart Beat (Ref. FC-310/315X5C24/5/6). The watch exhibits the hallmarks of the brand’s 'Accessible Luxury' philosophy. The rectangular case geometry, radial Roman numerals, and signature 12 o’clock aperture are consistent with authentic mid-2010s production. The silver sunray dial with its central guilloché pattern remains crisp, and the visible ruby jewel in the heartbeat escapement suggests a genuine FC-310 caliber movement based on the Sellita SW200-1 architecture. Condition is graded as 'Good to Very Good'; while the case shows light hairline scuffs expected with usage, the dial and sapphire crystal appear pristine. Market demand for Frédérique Constant remains stable for collectors seeking Swiss mechanical traditionalism at an entry-level price point. This specific tank-style model is less common than round alternatives but does not reach 'rare' status. Recent auction and secondary market sales for similar heartbeat models fluctuate between $600 and $950 depending on the presence of the original deployant clasp and alligator strap condition. The current leather strap shows some wear, slightly tempering the high-end value. Limitations: This appraisal is based on photographic evidence. A definitive authentication requires an in-person inspection to verify the movement's beat rate and amplitude via a timegrapher, and a loupe examination of the 'Swiss Made' pad printing. To confirm full value, the owner should provide original box and papers (provenance), which typically add a 15-20% premium. Verification of water resistance and service history is also recommended.