Norqain Independence Skeleton 40 mm Watch Review
The openworked dial of the new Norqain Independence Skeleton 40 mm is a stunning architectural spectacle that demonstrates great consideration for the wearer’s viewing experience. Three-dimensional views of the movement showcase the brand’s prowess for micro-engineering.
Norqain depuis 2018
“We’re not just going to stamp a watch, we’re going to build one”, remarked Jean-Claude Biver back in 2022. These were the first few words of wisdom he shared when he embarked upon an alliance with Jura-based watchmaker Norqain in 2022 with the unveiling of the ‘Wild One’ – a member of Norqain’s Independence collection. The watch industry titan is already known for his work in heading up TAG Heuer and Hublot, as well as for his ability to fend off the quartz crisis and rejuvenate Omega. Indeed, it would have been an act of sheer folly for Norqain founders Ben Küffer, Ted Schneider and Mark Streit not to have embraced the walking oracle’s guidance on this occasion.
The fact that the masterminds behind Norqain were already well-aligned with this way of thinking didn’t hurt. They had been nurturing relationships with reputable suppliers and manufacturers of sustainable materials since launching the company back in 2018. The brand may not have achieved global domination overnight, but it ascended rapidly, rising from a start-up to producing 10,000 watches annually in a very short space of time.
Since then, it has continued to challenge the status quo. Indeed, the industry maverick’s collaborative efforts with Norqain on the Wild One models extend far beyond the endorsement of a famous name. But aside from these audacious models, the Independence watch collection is home to several other bestsellers, proving that disruption and tradition aren’t always mutually exclusive. Many are geared towards an audience whose compass always points to adventure. The brand’s Independence watches remind even the least intrepid watch collector that looking beyond their next “safe” watch to embrace something a little pluckier is a good thing.
In 2021, Norqain released the skeletonised Independence 21 watch, following it up with the Independence 22 two years later and, thereafter, a grey version in 2024. All were 42 mm models powered by Sellita movements. Enlarging the Independence collection further, Norqain has unveiled two additional models for 2025, now in a more compact 40 mm size and offered in two variants: stainless steel or steel with a black DLC coating. They attest to the gradual seven-year shift from the large watch-wearing norms of 2018 to a new era of quiet luxury and smaller proportions.
Norqain Independence Skeleton 40 mm – case
Crafted from 316L stainless steel, the new Independence Skeleton watches feature flat sapphire crystals. In particular, the stainless steel version is a symphony of beautifully executed finishes (brushed, polished and sandblasted), enabling the Independence’s character to unfold as it dances with light. These finishes add a level of complexity, as do the hollowed sections on the lugs and the prominent screw-down crown guard. Furthermore, the removable Norqain plate on the left case flank provides a means of customising the watch with a special engraving should you so wish.
Though Norqain shrinks down the diameter of these new watches, its slightly thicker case depth of 12.05 mm is a small compromise. A lug-to-lug length of 46.3 mm reveals that these models have received a reduction in every dimension bar their height. Still, being only a quarter of a millimetre taller than their counterparts, this shouldn’t upset too many collectors. The cases feature recessed flanks that have been sandblasted to accentuate the watch’s sporty persona. The Norqain Independence Skeleton 40 mm is water-resistant to 100 m.
Norqain Independence Skeleton 40 mm – dial
It may have taken a while for vintage watch traditionalists to warm to the idea of a skeletonised dial, but an exposed display can donate visual and technical complexity to even some of the most pedestrian timepieces. Many watchmakers compete in this space, but Norqain’s relatively affordable designs prove very interesting, especially if you’re looking to dip your toes into the world of horological ajouré for the first time. The anthracite dials of both models provide an unhindered scene of movement components in motion. The only shots of colour emanate from the calibre’s rubies and golden balance wheel. Additional details include a sporty arrow-tipped seconds hand and ‘chronometer’ lettering at 6 o’clock, which Norqain decorates in orange for the black DLC-coated model. The steel variant salutes the seconds hand with a burst of aqua.
Both dials reveal anthracite-coloured skeletonised bridges, replacing the ruthenium-coated items found on the existing 42 mm Independence references. This finish contrasts with the steel and black-coated cases, granting the new Independence Skeleton watches a resolutely modern feel. Facetted indexes feature generous lashings of Super-LumiNova X1 to their surfaces, taking up residence around the minute track. The five-minute increments on the rehaut lend the watch a sporty edge. At the same time, the skeletonisation theme continues with the central hour and minute hands, which feature bright white luminous material on their tips.
The movement components, including the new openworked mainplate, appear to float beneath the model’s sapphire crystal glass, demonstrating the brand’s considered approach to design. Indeed, everything has been carefully arranged to deliver readability, avoiding the exposed components inhibiting understanding with unnecessary clutter.
Norqain Independence Skeleton 40 mm – movement
The new Independence Skeleton 40 mm watches are powered by the Calibre NB08S. It’s the same movement that powers the former Independence Skeleton watches. Visible via the dial and through the exhibition caseback, the Calibre NB08S has a bespoke Norqain rotor and boasts chronometer certification. Beating at 28,800 vph (4 Hz), the movement has a 41 hour power reserve. The ‘B’ within the movement’s name denotes the additional dark grey finish employed on these new 40 mm models.
The steel version of the Independence Skeleton 40 mm watch by Norqain can be paired with a matching three-link stainless steel bracelet featuring a folding clasp and micro-adjustment system or with an anthracite rubber strap accented with a Milanaise texture. Alternatively, the black DLC reference is offered with a choice of khaki or black rubber strap, executed in the same style. Neither watch is a limited edition and both will join the brand’s regular Independence collection.
Closing Thoughts
The Norqain Independence Skeleton 40 mm watches occupy a sweet spot between over-engineered sports watches and dressy skeleton timepieces. They’re supremely wearable models, following in the footsteps of their older siblings but now in a new goldilocks size. Without sacrificing an ounce of practicality or legibility, Norqain offers the choice of a practical steel option or a futuristic black-coated iteration. Regardless of personal preference, both are attractive propositions within the sports watch category that convey the brand’s all-important go-anywhere spirit.
Further reading
Technical Specifications
- Model: Norqain Independence Skeleton 40 mm
- Case: stainless steel or stainless steel with black DLC-coating, diameter 40 mm, water resistance 10 ATM (100 metres), sapphire crystal to the front, exhibition caseback
- Functions: hours, minutes, seconds
- Movement: Calibre NB08S, self-winding movement, frequency 28,800 vph (4Hz), 26 jewels, 41-hour power reserve, COSC-certified chronometer
- Steel version: stainless steel bracelet with folding clasp and micro-adjustment system or anthracite Milanese rubber with pin buckle.
- Black DLC version: khaki or black Milanese rubber strap with DLC pin buckle
- Price: steel on rubber – £3,440 / steel with steel bracelet – £3,660
- Price: black DLC steel on rubber – £3660