The New Raymond Weil Freelancer Collection

In 2007, Raymond Weil unveiled the Freelancer collection, a tribute to “the free-spirited man who wishes to remain in control of his destiny”, according to the corporate website. Over the years, the collection has flourished with over 40 references, from time-only and time-and-date models to chronographs (including flyback), world timers, and even diver’s timepieces. The introduction of the brand’s inaugural manufacture calibre, the self-winding RW 1212 in 2017, injected new vitality into several Freelancer models, some of which emerged as skeletonised versions.

While Raymond Weil has explored watches in different shapes, like the rectangular Toccatas or Don Giovanni series, until recently, all Freelancer references adhered to a round case. The latest additions to the Freelancer series showcase a square cushion-shaped case and are powered by the proprietary RW 1212 calibre. The outcome is exciting, and we gladly introduce these new Freelancers.

The Freelancer 2790 references, housed in a 40mm x 40mm square stainless steel case (water-resistant up to 100m) 10.5mm thick, boast rounded edges, presenting a modern aesthetic rooted in the 1970s. The fluted screw-down crown, adorned with the distinctive RW logo, promises comfortable use. Crowned with sapphire crystal featuring double-sided AR coating, the multi-level-looking dial offers gradient blue or green options. The square-shaped minute track, dark at the periphery, gradually shifts into a softer-coloured circle towards the centre, featuring rounded baton-shaped nickel-plated indices and minute markings. The central round space introduces a grainy texture, adding a touch of class. In this time-only model, the two nickel-plated hands and indices glow with Super-LumiNova for enhanced visibility. As with all RW 1212-equipped watches, these new Raymond Weil timepieces showcase an open balance wheel at 6 o’clock, serving as a visual highlight and a running indicator.

The RW 1212 movement, a collaborative design and development effort with Sellita, takes its name from the postal code of Raymond Weil’s headquarters in Grand-Lancy, Canton of Geneva. This 27-jewel movement operates at 28,800vph and incorporates Incabloc for shock protection and an Etachron-type regulator system. Specifically conceived to reveal the oscillating balance wheel through the dial, it draws inspiration from the RW 1842 tourbillon movement of 2015. While the open-heart concept isn’t groundbreaking, the symmetrical positioning of the window is an admirable achievement. The prominent bridge over the regulation system pays homage to tourbillon watch designs, offering a clear view of the regulation system and bringing the escapement closer to the dial for easy observation by the wearer.

The transparent caseback shows a well-finished side of the RW 1212 calibre with an open-worked W-shaped ball-bearing rotor, providing a non-stop run of 38 hours when fully wound. 

Raymond Weil has launched four Freelancer references in the new square case, featuring blue or green dials and available on a jubilee-style steel bracelet or a genuine black or green calf leather strap. The strap and bracelet are secured with a stainless steel clasp employing a double push-security system. The new Raymond Weil Freelancer 2790 models are priced at EUR 2,525 when offered on a strap and EUR 2,575 with the bracelet. For more information, please visit www.raymond-weil.com. Also, don’t miss the ladies’ version of the square Freelancer 2490 – it’s worth exploring.