Franck Muller
More on Franck Muller
Franck Muller is a relatively young watch brand. Known as the "Master of Complications",
Franck Muller uses unique case shapes and playful (some might call it whimsical) design language to truly set themselves apart from the rest of the watch industry.
Franck Muller's unique case shapes take inspiration from American watches of the early 20th century, like Elgin, Waltham, and Hamilton, to make timepieces a little more interesting.
The uniqueness of a Franck Muller watch truly gives the wearer a sense of exclusivity, which is difficult to find in the more common watches we see in the market today.
Franck Muller History
Franck Muller is a watch brand that many enthusiasts will likely know, but for those new to luxury timepieces who might be looking for a unique luxury timepiece, Franck Muller might just be the brand for you.
Founded in 1991 in Geneva by Franck Muller and Vartan Sirmakes, Frank Muller is a brand that "aims to create exclusive timepieces characterized by complicated movements and original design."
The entire process of creating a timepiece, from conception and manufacturing to engraving and servicing, all takes place at their complex in Geneva called Watchland.
The Franck Muller name is synonymous with not only unique design but innovations and firsts in the world of watches.
In 2004, Franck Muller debuted the first ever tri-axial tourbillon with the release of the Revolution 3. But one of the brand's greatest technical achievements came just 3 years later, in 2007, with the release of the Aeternitas Mega, which would become the world's most complicated wristwatch with 36 complications and 1,483 components.
Since the release of the Aeternitas Mega, Franck Muller has continued to innovate and bring new and exciting complications to the watch world. In 2011, Franck Muller released the largest ever tourbillon in a wristwatch with the Giga Tourbillon, a masterpiece that houses a tourbillon with a diameter of 20mm.
Franck Muller Collections
Franck Muller is comprised of seven men's collections and eight women's collections. It is worth noting that there are collections that are in both the men's and women's lines, as well as a collection of Grand Complications, which is Haute Horlogerie at its finest. Below, we will briefly discuss seven collections and some of their important features.
Franck Muller Vanguard Collection
Like many Franck Muller timepieces, the Vanguard collection falls in line with a case design that the Franck Muller brand is best known for: the tonneau-shaped case. The Vanguard is a sporty yet unique design that is hand-polished and hand-brushed.
The applique numerals are masculine when compared to the numerals on the next two watches we will be discussing, the Cintree Curvex and the Long Island, which complement the sporty aesthetic of the timepiece. The Vanguard comes in an array of sizes with complicated options, including chronographs, tourbillons, and grande dates.
Franck Muller Cintree Curvex Collection
The Cintree Curvex is a timepiece that needs to be seen in the metal to be truly appreciated. The curved and contouring case design provides the consumer with the brand's most elegant and distinct silhouette. The applique numerals, as discussed above, have a certain playfulness that is not seen on the Vanguard.
While the Curvex Cintree is certainly the product of modern watchmaking, the design is vibrant, distinct, and timeless, meaning those looking for an elegant and sophisticated timepiece need not look further.
Franck Muller Long Island Collection
The Art Deco-inspired Long Island Collection is one of the three Franck Muller collections that does not use a tonneau or tonneau-inspired case shape. Instead, the rectangular design of the Long Island Collection is reminiscent of the iconic Cartier Tank, but in typical Franck Muller fashion, it deviates from the inspiration in a few ways, the first being the case shape.
Much like the Curvex case, the Long Island has a curve or a camber to the case back, which allows the Long Island to be worn well on smaller wrists despite its size. Second, Franck Muller is known for an array of complications that you won't find on any Cartier Tanks.
Franck Muller Round Collection
Number two in the non-tonneau-shaped case category is the Franck Muller Round Collection. Described on the Franck Muller website as a "pure and sober" design, the Round Collection is Franck Muller's attempt at watchmaking in its purest form, the tried-and-true design that is a round timepiece.
But make no mistake; this wouldn't be a Franck Muller timepiece without extreme attention to detail, which extends from the finishing of the timepiece to the incredible movements and major complications, which include a perpetual calendar. The Franck Muller Round Collection has all the design and technical traits to make this timepiece a true heirloom.
Franck Muller Master Square Collection
The Master Square Collection is the last collection on the list to not have a tonneau-shaped case. Much like its four-sided brethren, the Long Island, the Master Square Collection has a curved case, making the timepiece incredibly easy to wear. Both the Master Square and the Long Island hug the wrist in a way that makes them feel almost cuff-like. The Master Square is an incredibly symmetrical timepiece whose bold lines and sophisticated case rarely house any complications, which is rare in the Franck Muller catalog.
Franck Muller Curvex CX Collection
The Curvex CX, much like the original Cintree Curvex, remains the brand's most distinct case. With its perfectly curved and unique contours, the Curvex is a dream to wear. But what sets the Curvex CX apart from the Cintree is a redesigned case that allows the curved sapphire crystal to extend all the way to the edges of the case and bracelet while retaining a bezel underneath the sapphire crystal, which is separate from the case. While it is a very minimal change, it is the first redesign of the Curvex case since its release in 1992.
Franck Muller Skafander Collection
The Skafander is Frank Muller's take on a dive watch. But, with only 100m of water resistance, it is more of an overbuilt sport watch than it is a true dive watch. Nonetheless, the Skafander, in true Franck Muller fashion, is uniquely designed with a few neat tricks up its sleeve. While most dive watches have an external rotating bezel, the Skafander has an internal rotating bezel reminiscent of compressor dive watches of the 60s. The Skafander is a unique and well-designed dive watch in a tonneau-shaped case, a first for the brand.
Franck Muller Watches Price Guide
Below is a table discussing just a few of the models that Franck Muller has to offer, their prices, and a unique feature of that timepiece.
| Model | Starting Price | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|
| Franck Muller Vanguard Grande Date V 45 CC GD SQT NR BR (NR) | Price On Request | Titanium case, large date complication |
| Squale 1521 Militare Blasted Strap | Price On Request | Striking white dial with matching white leather strap |
| Squale 1521 Full Luminous | Price On Request | Monochrome gray case, dial, hands, and indices, with red accents on the minute track |
Best Selling Franck Muller Watches
As seen in our price guide above, Franck Muller watches are by no means inexpensive. That said, when you decide to purchase a Franck Muller watch make sure you are doing so from an authorized dealer. So, let's discuss a few of the best-selling Franck Muller timepieces available for purchase on Exquisite Timepieces.
Franck Muller Vanguard Classical ref. V 45 SC DT (BU)
The Franck Muller Vanguard Classical ref. V 45 SC DT (BU) is an incredibly sporty and unique variant of the Vanguard collection. The case diameter is 44mm, it has a lugless case length of 53.7mm, and it has a case thickness of 12.7mm. While it certainly is a big watch, it does wear quite comfortably due to the case shape and camber. The white dial with blue applique numerals is the perfect pairing for the white with blue stitched alligator leather strap.
Franck Muller Vanguard Grande Date ref. V 45 CC GD SQT NR BR (NR)
The Franck Muller Vanguard Grande Date is a great example of how diverse and complicated the Vanguard line can be. The case dimensions remain the same except for the case thickness, which is 15.1mm due to the added chronograph function.
The big date function is a great addition to any timepiece but works exceptionally well in the Vanguard. The Black PVD coated titanium case adds to the sleekness of the Vanguard by making it a little lighter on the wrist, all the while being the perfect timepiece for someone looking to make a statement.
Franck Muller Movements
Franck Muller is known as a brand that pushes the limits of what can be accomplished within a wristwatch. Known for their mastery of complications, many of their highest-end and highly complicated timepieces contain in-house manufactured movement. While each component of their in-house movements being manufactured in-house, Franck Muller uses top-grade off-the-shelf ETA and Ronda quartz movements for certain collections.
Franck Muller Colors
Franck Muller is a brand that thrives on being unique and individualistic. When looking at the catalog, it is evident that Franck Muller enjoys being a bit avant-garde with the colors they use on their timepieces.
But that is what makes Franck Muller special. They aren't afraid to break away from the status quo and inject a bit of fun and whimsy into their designs. What is even more impressive is the application of color to the numerals on many of their watches, most notably the "Crazy Hour," is hand painted on by a skilled artisan.
Franck Muller Watch Materials
Franck Muller has always been dedicated to the highest quality of craftsmanship. With that said, they make sure to utilize the highest quality materials when making their iconic timepieces.
Franck Muller is known to use precious metals such as 18k gold, rose gold, and platinum, but they also use more typical metals in their designs, like stainless steel and titanium. When it comes to materials used in movements, Franck Muller utilizes Rhodium plating as well as a 24k gold bath.
Franck Muller Watch Types
Franck Muller, as a brand, does not deviate too often from their tried-and-true design language, but within that design language, they have been able to create timepieces that range from time-only luxury dress watches to sporty, masculine pieces with the odd "diver" thrown in as well.
That said, it is safe to say that Franck Muller utilizes more complications to differentiate collections as opposed to creating different "types" of watches. In the next section, we will discuss some of the complications Franck Muller uses in their timepieces.
Franck Muller Watch Complications
Franck Muller has been called the "Master of Complications." So much so that they created the most complicated wristwatch in the world. That said, it goes without saying that the complications within the Franck Muller catalog are extensive. While this isn't the place to discuss every single complication in-depth, the Franck Muller Catalog is chock-full of some of the grandest complications in timekeeping.
Franck Muller has created many industry firsts like the tri-axial tourbillon and the largest tourbillon ever to be put in a timepiece at 20mm. But in their most complicated timepiece, the Aeternitas, which houses 36 complications, Franck Muller has included a tourbillon, perpetual calendar, flyback chronograph, and chimes, just to name a few.
Franck Muller Watch Partnerships & Brand Ambassadors
Franck Muller is a brand that has been seen on the wrists of many celebrities, including Arnold Schwarzenegger, Elton John, Cristiano Ronaldo, Conor McGregor, and Paris Hilton, but celebrities aren't the only ambassadors or partners for Franck Muller.
Franck Muller is the official watch sponsor for the vintage car rally, The Colorado Grand. They are also part of a co-branding partnership with the world's third most visited crypto exchange called Bybit. To say they partner with an array of companies and industries would be an understatement.
Buying Franck Muller Watches
For those looking to purchase a Franck Muller watch have a look at their website to find an authorized dealer near you. Similarly to other timepieces, trying one on and seeing it in the metal is important.
But in the event that you aren't close to an authorized dealer and know for sure that a Franck Muller timepiece is your next purchase, you can always head over to Exquisite Timepieces and see what we have in stock. Exquisite Timepieces is an authorized dealer for not only Franck Muller but over 60 other brands as well.
Caring for Your Franck Muller Watch
Franck Muller, much like any other reputable watch brand, offers a two-year warranty with every watch that is purchased from an authorized dealer, which covers parts and labor. But in the event that your Franck Muller watch needs to be serviced, it is recommended that you have it serviced by Franck Muller rather than a third party.
At Exquisite Timepieces, we take care of the entire service process, including sending your watch to Franck Muller and back to you. The servicing will include a complete dismantling of the watch and movement by a skilled watchmaker, where every piece that makes up a Franck Muller watch is inspected for wear, replaced, if need be, and then meticulously put back together before polishing and detailing of the watch.
Franck Muller FAQs
Are Franck Muller watches worth it?
If you are a buyer looking for an incredibly unique and masterfully crafted timepiece, then yes, I think you will find Franck Muller timepieces fulfilling. But if you are looking for a value proposition, then Franck Muller might not be the best option.
Why do Franck Muller watches cost so much?
Franck Muller watches tend to have a high price tag due to the craftsmanship that goes into the timepiece. The craftsmanship, coupled with the use of precious and unique metals and their use of grand complications, means that a Franck Muller timepiece is a true piece of art that has a price to match.
Is Franck Muller a luxury brand?
Yes, Franck Muller is a luxury brand. Not only are they a luxury brand, but they fall into a category of luxury called Haute Horlogerie, which means the "High Art of Watchmaking", and it represents what most consider to be the highest standard in watchmaking.
What is the most expensive watch by Frank Muller?
The most expensive Franck Muller watch is the Aeternitas Mega 4. Featuring 36 different complications, the Aerternitas sold for $2.7 million dollars when it was released in 2018.
Find your new Franck Muller watch with Exquisite Timepieces
If you are in the market for your next timepiece and have your heart set on the unique design and a piece of Haute Horlogerie, head over to Exquisite Timepieces, where you can look through the Franck Muller catalog and find the right watch for you. It is also worth noting that Exquisite Timepieces is an authorized dealer for Franck Muller watches and offers a full warranty and free insured shipping on all purchases.
