The Swiss watchmaker Norqain has answered collector demands with surgical precision, introducing the Independence Skeleton 40mm as a more wearable iteration of their acclaimed open-worked timepiece.
Originally launched exclusively in 42mm format back in 2021, the Independence Skeleton series has cultivated a devoted following among enthusiasts who appreciate mechanical transparency without excessive bulk. Now, Norqain’s latest release delivers the same skeletal drama in a compact package that promises broader wrist compatibility and enhanced daily wearability.
Refined Engineering In Smaller Package
The new 40mm models maintain the architectural DNA of their larger siblings while introducing thoughtful refinements that extend beyond mere size reduction. Crafted from 316L stainless steel with flat sapphire crystals protecting both sides, these watches showcase Norqain’s signature multi-finish approach combining brushed, polished, and sandblasted surfaces. The duo includes a standard stainless steel variant and a striking black DLC-coated version that transforms the watch’s entire personality through its tactical aesthetic.
Measuring 40mm in diameter by 12.05mm thick, with 20mm lugs extending to a 46.3mm lug-to-lug profile, these watches represent dimensional optimization rather than simple scaling. Interestingly, while every measurement decreased from the 42mm version, the height actually increased by 0.25mm—a change that subtly alters the watch’s proportional character and on-wrist presence. This engineering choice suggests Norqain prioritized maintaining movement visibility and structural integrity over pure size reduction.
The cases retain hallmark Independence features including signed screw-down crowns at 3 o’clock and Norqain’s signature engraveable plate on the opposite case side. Water resistance remains unchanged at 100 meters, ensuring these skeleton watches maintain practical utility despite their mechanical exhibitionism.
At the heart of both models beats the Caliber NB08S, Norqain’s branded version of the proven Sellita SW200-1S skeletonized movement. This COSC-certified chronometer operates at 28,800vph with 41 hours of power reserve, offering the reliability and serviceability advantages of established third-party calibers. The movement’s dark gray finish complements both case variants while providing optimal contrast against the open-worked architecture.
Visual Innovation Through Intelligent Design
The 40mm models introduce a crucial dial refinement that distinguishes them from their 42mm predecessors. While the larger versions feature completely open central sections with brand text printed on the crystal’s underside, the new compact models employ a transparent dial plate as their foundation. This seemingly minor change allows text placement on the thin clear surface between the hands and movement, creating improved legibility without compromising the skeletal aesthetic.
Color coding differentiates the two variants through strategic accent placement. The black DLC version features bright orange highlights on the seconds hand tip and “chronometer” text, while the stainless steel model employs punchy turquoise for these same elements. Both versions utilize X1 Super-LumiNova on hands and hour markers, ensuring excellent low-light visibility despite the open-worked design complexity.
Strap options reflect contemporary preferences for versatility and personalization. The DLC model offers textured rubber straps in black or khaki green configurations, while the stainless steel version provides choices between dark gray rubber or a matching steel bracelet. These options acknowledge that skeleton watches often serve as conversation pieces requiring diverse styling flexibility.
Pricing positions these models competitively within Norqain’s ecosystem, with the black DLC version at $4,690 USD and the stainless steel variant ranging from $4,490 USD on rubber to $4,790 USD with the steel bracelet. While some collectors may question premium pricing for Sellita-based movements, Norqain’s execution quality and attention to finishing details consistently justify their market positioning.
The Independence Skeleton 40mm represents thoughtful product evolution rather than mere size variation. By addressing wearability concerns while maintaining visual impact, Norqain has expanded their most popular series’ appeal without diluting its core identity. For collectors seeking mechanical transparency in daily-appropriate dimensions, these watches offer compelling entry points into skeleton watch ownership with established Swiss quality standards and long-term serviceability advantages.
