Last year, young Swiss watchmaker Norqain introduced the Independence 20, which was its first timepiece fitted with an exclusive manufacture caliber produced in partnership with Tudor-founded movement maker Kenissi. Now the brand follows it up with the introduction of the Independence 21, the next generation of watches within the original model’s design family.

The release encompasses two distinct models, the midnight blue-dialed Independence 21 Limited Edition, and the skeletonized Independence 21 DLC Skeleton Limited Edition. Together, the models are intended to breathe fresh life into the Independence family after the initial launch of last year?s model sold out just days after its launch.

Norqain Independence 21 Limited Edition
Focusing first on the version with the solid blue dial, we find a 42-mm by 11.8 mm steel case which, like the 2020 edition, features a sturdy, sport-oriented construction, with thick lugs, crown guards protecting its screw-down crown, and a left-side shoulder. The watch’s combination of polished, satin, and sandblasted finishing provides for a well-thought, contrasted look, which also echoes that of the matching steel bracelet.

Under a domed sapphire crystal lay the deep blue dial, surrounded by an outer minute ring in black. According to the brand, each of these dials is one of a kind, with the brushed finishing for each completed by hand to produce a unique scratch pattern that can’t be duplicated. Its ...