For those not yet familiar with Norqain, it is an independent Swiss company founded in Nidau (Bienne) by its CEO, Ben Küffer, in 2018. He, with a background in Breitling and a passion for watches since childhood, is joined by Ted Schneider, son of the former owner of Breitling itself, and Mark Streit, Swiss ice hockey legend. An Italian branch was recently opened, adding to the brand's network of international retailers and boutiques in Zermatt and Singapore.
The jewel in the crown of Norqain's production, 100% Swiss Made mechanics, is Independence Wild One, a concept watch using Norteq, a material created exclusively for Norqain and whose creators include none other than Jean-Claude Biver: shock-resistant, six times lighter than steel and 3.5 times lighter than titanium, it is a composite that combines carbon fibre with a polymer matrix containing 60% of substances of biological origin (castor oil).
Turning to the mechanics, the movements used by Norqain derive from Kenissi and are basically two: the NN20/1 calibre and the NN20/2 GMT calibre, with a 70-hour power reserve and Cosc certification. The brand uses them for its Independence, Adventure and Freedom collections, made in steel, solid gold, ceramic or bronze, with cases that are water-resistant to at least 100 metres and an original design distinguished by a metal plaque on the left side of the case middle, which can be personalised as desired, and a visible case back.
Pricesfrom 1,990 euro.
