The watch industry is experiencing a wave of miniaturization. Raymond Weil's flagship collection, the Freelancer, has been redesigned with a skeletonized model, now 4mm smaller at 38mm. While the previous model was highly praised for its unique aesthetic, the newly released 38mm model is a great success in perfectly condensing its appeal! Martin Green, a writer and editor for the US edition of WatchTime, has condensed that appeal and shared it with everyone!
The Freelancer skeleton model is back, smaller than ever!
The Freelancer collection is Raymond Weil's collection of elegant and robust sports watches. Anyone familiar with Raymond Weil knows that the Freelancer collection not only references the design of watches from the good old days, but also incorporates an adventurous spirit.
For example, the cushion-shaped case model, Ref. 2790-ST-50051, is a good example of this adventurism. It's already adventurous enough, but a skeletonized version would surely make it even more adventurous.
The Freelancer skeleton model was initially released in 42mm, and from the start, I was struck by how there was something special about it. The skeleton design allows you to fully enjoy the quality of the Cal. 1212 movement used in this watch. I had once thought it would be nice if it was available in smaller sizes. Now, with the release of the 38mm model, that wish has come true.
The case of the 38mm model "Freelancer 38 Skeleton" is made of polished and satin-finished stainless steel. The combination of the dark color of the movement bridge and the blue of the bezel ring is very attractive. The bezel is polished, so the skeletonized movement naturally stands out. The downscaled design of the watch to 38mm gives it a condensed impression of individuality.
As an aside, the Freelancer skeleton model includes a model with a black PVD case and a model with just a bronze bezel. I had predicted that a model combining the two would be released, but my guess was wrong.
Automatic winding (Cal. RW1212). 27 jewels. 28,800 vph. Power reserve approximately 41 hours. Stainless steel case (diameter 38mm, thickness 10.87mm). Water resistant to 10 bar. 550,000 yen (tax included).
Isn't the skeleton movement cut out so cool?
The movement, Cal. RW1212, was developed in collaboration between Raymond Weil and Sellita, and its design is inspired by the Cal. RW1842, a tourbillon movement used in the Raymond Weil Nabucco Cello Tourbillon, released in 2015.
Its main feature is the skeletonized balance wheel at 6 o'clock, which has been a signature feature of this movement since it was first introduced in 2017. And the skeletonized design of this movement is very appealing. Simply put, it's super cool.
Although this model is made using industrial techniques, its sophistication is striking. The skeletonized design allows for the pleasure of admiring the movement's structure. The finishing is also impressive. The rotor is also noteworthy. The skeletonized design honestly makes you do a double take.
Some may be disappointed that this model, equipped with the Caliber RW1212, does not have a seconds hand, but personally, I feel that an additional moving part would put too much strain on the balance and is therefore unnecessary.
One feature of the movement that I'd like to highlight is the increased power reserve. For a modern movement like this, I feel that a power reserve of approximately 38 hours is a little short. (Editor's note: The Caliber RW1212 previously had an official power reserve of approximately 38 hours. It is now approximately 41 hours.) The Caliber RW1212 does not have a power reserve indicator. However, Raymond Weil appears to have used an openworked barrel in this Freelancer, exposing the mainspring, as a substitute.
The bracelet is super comfortable! But it looks familiar...
The bracelet is a difficult piece to comment on with this watch. It's well-made, conforms to the shape of the wrist, and is extremely comfortable, while also providing just the right amount of weight for the watch head, making this Raymond Weil watch a joy to wear.
However, the bracelet is reminiscent of the Rolex Jubilee, and anyone who sees this watch on the bracelet alone will likely assume it's a Rolex with the famous crown logo. I personally think a leather strap would look great on this Freelancer, so pairing it with one would be a good idea.
This is Freelancer's current product and costs 55 yen (tax included).
