Each marker on the ring is one counted review, coloured by its verdict.

Beaubleu

Seconde Française

19.2439mmautomatic$1,669 list priceAnnounced May 2024

A 39mm steel automatic from Paris-based Beaubleu that shows the time with the brand's signature circular hour and minute hands and a floating seconds disc. The crown is hidden at 3 o'clock, and it uses a French-made France Ébauche Calibre FE movement.

Beaubleu product page

Creator Consensus

Very positive

6 reviews: 5 positive, 1 mixed, 0 negative. 6 of 6 recommend it.

Every reviewer finds it comfortable and well proportioned on the wrist. Most are captivated by the floating seconds disc and see strong value in what it offers. Several single out the stepped case, the fitted mesh bracelet and how clearly it stands apart from other dress watches, though several also find the recessed crown awkward to wind and set.

Where they differ. Several reviewers find the unconventional display stays legible, while a couple of others say the time can be tricky to read, and some add that minimal lume limits it in low light.

Most praised

Wears comfortably with tailored proportions6 of 6
- Time+Tide Reports that it wears nicely given its dimensions.Dimensions-wise, it wears quite nicelyRead it in context
- Mainspring Watch Magazine Proportions suit the reviewer's wrist well.this watch wears really well on my French wristRead it in context
- Average Bros Says it wears beautifully on a 7.5-inch wrist.on my 7 and 1/2 in this wears absolutely beautifullyWatch from 10:17
- Average Bros Sums up the on-wrist experience as well proportioned with a tailored fit.great proportions with a tailored fit that wears beautifullyWatch from 14:35
- Watch Yourself, Jorge Wears very nicely on a 6.5-inch wrist.I've got 6 and 1/2 in wrists. It wears absolutely lovely.Watch from 1:53
- The Knight's Watch Fits a 6.5-inch wrist well.I think you can tell it fits pretty wellWatch from 15:26
- The Knight's Watch Has no complaints about how the case wears.I don't have any complaints in the wearability of the caseWatch from 20:46
- Average Bros Finds the apparent height disappears and the watch hugs the wrist.that height just melts away fantastically it sits it hugs the wristWatch from 10:46
- The Calibrated Wrist Credits the long, steeply angled lugs with making it comfortable to wear.The long steeply angled lugs make for a comfortable wearing experienceRead it in context
Floating seconds disc is captivating5 of 6
- The Calibrated Wrist Enjoys the visual effect of the floating second hand.creating a mesmerizing effect that adds a touch of magicRead it in context
- Mainspring Watch Magazine The floating seconds disc and its moving shadow are a captivating spectacle.a majestic spectacle to witnessRead it in context
- Average Bros Singles out the floating seconds hand as especially captivating.that second's hand that is just you know beautifully floating there draws you inWatch from 14:06
- Watch Yourself, Jorge Finds the floating circular seconds hand stunning.it honestly looks stunningWatch from 4:19
- The Knight's Watch Loves the mystery and uniqueness of the floating seconds hand on a sapphire disc.I love the the mystery that that adds the uniquenessWatch from 2:27
Strong value for what it offers5 of 6
- Time+Tide Finds the price point surprisingly reasonable.at a surprisingly reasonable price pointRead it in context
- Time+Tide Notes it is not outrageously expensive.Read the review
- The Calibrated Wrist Describes the watch as offering outstanding value.In addition, it offers incredible value.Read it in context
- Mainspring Watch Magazine Argues spending over $1,000 on it would be money well spent.here I argue it would be wisely spentRead it in context
- Mainspring Watch Magazine Believes a Swiss-made equivalent would cost far more.you could easily have added at least one zero to the price tagRead it in context
- Average Bros Says it feels like it could cost a couple of thousand dollars.I think it feels like it could be more expensiveWatch from 15:04
- Average Bros Ranks it among the finest microbrand offerings under $2,000.the finest micr brand offerings under $2,000 it's just it's that goodWatch from 16:01
- Watch Yourself, Jorge Considers the price very good, particularly for the dial's uniqueness.Honestly, that's really good for that price.Watch from 7:12
- Watch Yourself, Jorge The co-host feels it should cost far more.It feels like it's a watch that should cost far more than it does.Watch from 8:35
Unconventional display stays legible4 of 6
- Time+Tide Notes it is playful without being too hard to read.without being too obtusely hard to readRead it in context
- The Calibrated Wrist Finds the midnight blue dial elegant and highly legible.ensuring excellent legibility while adding a layer of sophisticationRead it in context
- Mainspring Watch Magazine Reading the unconventional display proved easier than anticipated.reading the time is much easier than I had originally thoughtRead it in context
- Average Bros Notes legibility stays good in transitional lighting, which was unexpected for such a design-led piece.you're still getting great legibility on the handset which is niceWatch from 13:38
Stands apart from other dress watches4 of 6
- The Calibrated Wrist Believes it stands out among many men's dress watches.stands out in a crowded house of men’s dress watchesRead it in context
- Watch Yourself, Jorge Doubts buyers will find anything similar easily.I don't think you're going to find anything like it in a hurryWatch from 8:06
- The Knight's Watch Considers its uniqueness the biggest pro; it stands out in a watch box.my biggest Pro for it is the fact that it's very uniqueWatch from 19:48
- Average Bros Believes it offers the quirks and difference collectors look for.you like things that are different and I believe that this really does offer you thatWatch from 14:35
- Watch Yourself, Jorge The co-host finds the floating seconds unusual at its price point.it's kind of unique for that price pointWatch from 8:06
Stepped, layered case architecture4 of 6
- The Calibrated Wrist Singles out the stepped architecture of the case flanks as a highlight.I particularly like the architecture of the case sidesRead it in context
- Mainspring Watch Magazine The sloping ledge detail shows the care put into the design.slopes down and up towards its centerRead it in context
- Average Bros Praises the undercut, stepped midcase that makes the case appear thinner.very thoughtful and well thought out in terms of not just some of the designWatch from 4:06
- Watch Yourself, Jorge Likes the heavily domed sapphire and the stepped transition into the bezel.It's got a heavy domed sapphire. Honestly, it looks lovely.Watch from 2:22
- Average Bros Appreciates that the stepped, layered theme carries from dial into crystal.different steps and layers to the dial itself that do carry into the very nice um CrystalWatch from 5:31

Show 20 more

Fitted mesh bracelet integrates beautifully4 of 6
- Time+Tide Sees the integrated ends of the Milanese bracelet as premium and welcome.a Milanese bracelet with integrated ends (a premium and welcome touch)Read it in context
- Mainspring Watch Magazine The fitted mesh complements the case contours and finish.the fitted mesh bracelet enhances the delicate contours of the caseRead it in context
- Average Bros Calls the mesh bracelet gorgeous and beautifully integrated.I had to highlight it on this mesh bracelet cuz it's absolutely gorgeousWatch from 9:20
- Watch Yourself, Jorge Praises the fitted mesh bracelet and the leather strap with folding clasp.a really nice fitted mesh braceletWatch from 6:13
Circular handset is genuinely novel3 of 6
- Mainspring Watch Magazine Circular hands feel like an idea no one had before.one would wonder why no-one has ever thought of this beforeRead it in context
- The Knight's Watch Has never seen a handset like it elsewhere.not anything I've ever seen on another watch beforeWatch from 2:56
- Average Bros Considers the dial and handset the highlight of the watch.the dial and handset are absolutely the stars of the showWatch from 12:13
Hidden crown is visually elegant3 of 6
- Time+Tide Appreciates the hidden crown, with lug shoulders flowing over it and alternating brushed and polished surfaces.it does have a hidden crown, with the curvaceous lug shoulders flowing over the topRead it in context
- Average Bros Likes the hidden crown aesthetically.aesthe ically it looks fantasticWatch from 3:08
- Watch Yourself, Jorge Appreciates the crown hidden under the bezel and finds the profile gorgeous.I can't really describe the profile of this watch, but it's gorgeous.Watch from 2:52
Alternating polished and brushed surfaces3 of 6
- The Calibrated Wrist Finds the alternating polished and brushed surfaces attractive in the light.creating a dynamic interplay of textures that catch the light beautifullyRead it in context
- Mainspring Watch Magazine Polished and brushed surfaces flow seamlessly across the case.the stainless steel case showcases outstanding finishingRead it in context
- Average Bros Thinks the mainly polished finish with brushed accents was the right choice.mainly polished and I think that was the right call hereWatch from 4:34
Compact lug-to-lug suits smaller wrists3 of 6
- Average Bros Finds the lug-to-lug manageable, helped by turned-down sculpted lugs.44.4 MM lug to Lug which is really nice and manageableWatch from 4:06
- Watch Yourself, Jorge Short lugs make it sit snugly on the wrist.it's got very short lugs, which means it does wear really snug on the wristWatch from 1:53
- The Knight's Watch Short lug-to-lug suits even smaller wrists.doesn't overpower the wrist at allWatch from 16:54
Rich, deep dial colour appeals2 of 6
- Time+Tide Picks Midnight Blue as the best colour, feeling it is most on-brand.I do think the Midnight Blue is the pick of the bunchRead it in context
- The Knight's Watch Likes the deep, lacquered enamel-type dial colour.gives it this very deep glossy lacquered color to itWatch from 1:30
Colours of dial, hands and strap harmonise2 of 6
- Mainspring Watch Magazine The blue seconds disc pairs well with the white hands and grey dial.works very well with the white hour and minute hands as well as the gray dialRead it in context
- The Knight's Watch Feels the dial, hand and strap colours harmonise.all the colors play relatively well with each otherWatch from 1:57
Circular motifs create a cohesive design2 of 6
- Mainspring Watch Magazine Circular hands are seen as a natural match for the round dial and case.The circular shape of the hands works, of course, with the circular dialRead it in context
- Average Bros Praises the symmetry and repeated circular motifs throughout the design.I love the Symmetry that you're going to find hereWatch from 3:08
- Average Bros Appreciates the design themes coming together at both model and brand level.the whole nature of the design aesthetic all come together really beautifullyWatch from 8:21
Playful yet tasteful character2 of 6
- Time+Tide Finds it a stylish and playful way to tell the time.it offers a stylish and playful way to tell timeRead it in context
- Watch Yourself, Jorge Finds it adventurous while remaining tasteful, unlike many art-piece watches.It's out there while still being very very tasteful.Watch from 7:12
Striking looks from every angle2 of 6
- Average Bros Calls the watch a real stunner at first look.this thing is an absolute stunnerWatch from 2:10
- Watch Yourself, Jorge Believes it looks good from every angle.single angle from which this watch looks bad at allWatch from 7:39
Distinctive case shape in profile2 of 6
- Time+Tide Finds the 'disco volante' shape current and shapely.it’s got a real ‘disco volante’ vibe which feels very of the zeitgeistRead it in context
- The Knight's Watch Praises the unusual case shape seen from the side.very unique shape you don't really see very oftenWatch from 7:46
Beautifully sculpted and finished case2 of 6
- Mainspring Watch Magazine Calls the case sublime thanks to its unique look and top finishing.Let’s take a moment to finally discuss the case. It is sublimeRead it in context
- Average Bros Praises the beautifully sculpted and finished case.the way that the case is so beautifully sculpted and uh finishedWatch from 12:41
Engraved caseback is a premium touch2 of 6
- Watch Yourself, Jorge Finds the engraved, recessed caseback area beautifully executed.The area around the case back is also beautifully done.Watch from 7:39
- The Knight's Watch Considers the relief-stamped caseback a premium touch.it looks really nice it's a very premium touchWatch from 13:04
Mesh bracelet is light and comfortable2 of 6
- Mainspring Watch Magazine Notes the light weight on the mesh bracelet.it is surprisingly lightRead it in context
- Average Bros Notes a good balance of structure and give for comfort.Watch from 9:20
Leather strap is supple and comfortable2 of 6
- The Calibrated Wrist Finds the supple leather adds luxury and comfort.The supple quality of the leather adds to the watch’s luxurious feelRead it in context
- The Knight's Watch Thinks the included strap is unusually good.the included strap for once is actually amazingly well doneWatch from 14:29
- The Knight's Watch Finds the strap thin, pliable and comfortable immediately.really thin really pliable super comfortable from the first wearWatch from 14:29
French-made movement is a draw2 of 6
- Average Bros Finds the French FE calibre genuinely cool.it's actually a French uh movement the Fe caliber and it is cool guysWatch from 6:55
- The Knight's Watch Likes that movement production is revived in France.it's cool that they're bringing this backWatch from 0:30
- Average Bros Finds a French-made watch with a French movement especially appealing.a French made watch with a French made movement there's something about itWatch from 7:51
Respectable accuracy tolerance2 of 6
- Average Bros Considers the ±7 seconds per day tuning impressive.accuracy of plus or minus 7 seconds per day which is pretty awesomeWatch from 7:51
- The Knight's Watch Considers the stated accuracy a good tolerance.which is a pretty good toleranceWatch from 1:00
Reassuring warranty coverage2 of 6
- Time+Tide Feels the 5-year warranty should reassure buyers.which should put consumers’ minds at easeRead it in context
- The Knight's Watch Considers the 3-year warranty good for a microbrand.3-year warranty which I think is pretty goodWatch from 1:30
Expresses a distinct French horological identity1 of 6
- Time+Tide Describes it as a bold French horological statement with Parisian panache and refinement.a bold, very French horological statement that offers Parisian panache and refinementRead it in context
- Time+Tide Views the watch as representative of a distinct French watchmaking identity.carving out a distinct identity for itself compared to its Swiss brethrenRead it in context
- Time+Tide Considers the flying-seconds mystery-dial format fitting for a French watch.the Seconde Française is technically a mystery dialRead it in context
Pairs well with a range of straps1 of 6
- The Knight's Watch Feels the dark dial matches well with most straps.dark deep dial makes it pretty amable to most other things you put on itWatch from 1:57
- The Knight's Watch Enjoys it on a white silicone strap for a playful look.really no downside I can see wearing this strapWatch from 19:19

Most criticised

Recessed crown is awkward to wind and set3 of 6
- The Calibrated Wrist Acknowledges that the hidden crown makes winding and time-setting more awkward.winding and setting the time can be somewhat more complicated as a resultRead it in context
- Average Bros Finds the recessed crown awkward to use and hand-wind.that's not going to make it the easiest Crown to useWatch from 3:08
- The Knight's Watch Finds the recessed crown with rough knurling painful to hand-wind.it like genuinely hurtsWatch from 11:38
- The Knight's Watch Rates the crown function extremely poorly.Crown function like one out of 10 not greatWatch from 12:34
- The Knight's Watch Feels the crown experience isn't premium at this price.I don't think that feels very premium especially not for over $1,000Watch from 12:06
Time can be tricky to read2 of 6
- Watch Yourself, Jorge Notes the circular hands make telling the time tricky.They're not overly functional, so it can make it tricky to tell the timeWatch from 3:51
- The Knight's Watch Finds the outer dial tracks cluttered and hard to read.there's a little too much information going on thereWatch from 2:56
Minimal lume limits low-light reading2 of 6
- Average Bros Observed no visible lume on the prototype, though excuses it for a dress watch.it's a dress watch so any Loom is a blessing um and I don't really see anyWatch from 13:10
- The Knight's Watch Lume only on the central pinion makes it impossible to read the time in the dark.this is just terrible LoomWatch from 21:42
Hand colours and thicknesses feel mismatched1 of 6
- Watch Yourself, Jorge Wishes the blue of the hour/minute and seconds hands matched better.I do wish that the color of blue between the hour and minute handWatch from 4:46
- Watch Yourself, Jorge Would prefer uniform thickness across all three hands, though calls it a personal quibble.I do also wish that they were a uniform thicknessWatch from 4:46
Case looks thick from the side1 of 6
- The Knight's Watch Finds the case looks thick from the side and wants a slimmer mid-case.it's not going to trick you into thinking it's thinWatch from 15:56
Mesh clasp is hard to open1 of 6
- Watch Yourself, Jorge The mesh clasp cannot be opened without prying it with a tool.it's very hard to open the claspWatch from 6:13

Show 1 more

Undecorated movement feels out of place1 of 6
- The Knight's Watch Finds the movement undecorated and at odds with the design.the movement is completely unfinishedWatch from 14:02
- The Knight's Watch Feels an unfinished movement is a misstep at this price.for around $1,300 retail that's a misstepWatch from 23:09

Open a point to see who said it and jump to that moment in their review.

By aspect

PositiveMixedNegative

How reviewers judged each aspect; one square per reviewer who discussed it
Dial		Praised
Case & proportions		Praised
Wearability		Praised
Bracelet & strap		Praised
Originality		Praised
Value		Praised
Design		Praised
Movement		Mostly liked
Finishing & build		Praised
Functionality		Mixed
Versatility		Mostly liked

Was this consensus useful?

The reviews

6 counted, 1 more for context

Remontoir summarises; the reviewers did the work. Watch and read the originals for the full picture.

Time+Tide

The Beaubleu Seconde Française is a quintessentially quirky (and affordable) French timepiece

ArticleHands-on reviewOct 2025Jamie Weiss

PositiveRecommends

The reviewer sees the Seconde Française as a bold, playful French statement with a distinctive ring-hand mystery dial, a shapely case and a decent French-made movement. The price is judged surprisingly reasonable, and the only quibble is slightly long lugs.

Suits: Buyers wanting a playful, distinctly French watch at an accessible price

Disclosure: Retailer stock

What the review says, point by point

Designpositive: Describes it as a bold French horological statement with Parisian panache and refinement.
Finds it a stylish and playful way to tell the time.
Case & proportionspositive: Finds the 'disco volante' shape current and shapely.
Appreciates the hidden crown, with lug shoulders flowing over it and alternating brushed and polished surfaces.
Feels the lugs are proportionally a little long, though calls it a nitpick.
Wearabilitypositive: Reports that it wears nicely given its dimensions.
Dialpositive: Finds the ring hands slightly bewildering at first but fully functional.
Considers the flying-seconds mystery-dial format fitting for a French watch.
Picks Midnight Blue as the best colour, feeling it is most on-brand.
Notes it is playful without being too hard to read.
Bracelet & strappositive: Sees the integrated ends of the Milanese bracelet as premium and welcome.
Movementpositive: Considers the Calibre FE a respectable movement.
Feels the 5-year warranty should reassure buyers.
Says the finishing is not spectacular but still pleasant, and overall a bit nicer than an ETA 2824.
Originalitypositive: Views the watch as representative of a distinct French watchmaking identity.
Valuepositive: Finds the price point surprisingly reasonable.
Notes it is not outrageously expensive.

Read on timeandtidewatches.com

Watch Yourself, Jorge

The Beaubleu Seconde Francais Has An INSANE Dial...

Video, 9 minHands-on reviewJun 2025

Very positiveRecommends

The hosts find the Seconde Française a beautiful, tasteful art-piece watch with a standout floating seconds dial, compact and comfortable proportions, and strong value. Their minor gripes are legibility, hand colour and thickness mismatches, modest movement specs, and a stiff mesh clasp.

Suits: Buyers wanting a unique, tasteful art-piece dial at a modest price

Disclosure: Brand loaner

What they said, point by point

Dialpositive: Finds the floating circular seconds hand stunning. 4:19
Notes the circular hands make telling the time tricky. 3:51
Wishes the blue of the hour/minute and seconds hands matched better. 4:46
Would prefer uniform thickness across all three hands, though calls it a personal quibble. 4:46
Case & proportionspositive: Considers the case measurements very pleasing. 1:26
Likes the heavily domed sapphire and the stepped transition into the bezel. 2:22
Appreciates the crown hidden under the bezel and finds the profile gorgeous. 2:52
Wearabilitypositive: Short lugs make it sit snugly on the wrist. 1:53
Wears very nicely on a 6.5-inch wrist. 1:53
Feels a bit thicker than its stated thickness, though still slim. 1:26
Movementmixed: Finds the 46-hour power reserve unimpressive. 5:15
Considers the ±9 seconds/day accuracy acceptable, especially given the price. 5:44
Bracelet & strapmixed: Praises the fitted mesh bracelet and the leather strap with folding clasp. 6:13
The mesh clasp cannot be opened without prying it with a tool. 6:13
Appreciates that both straps come in the box. 6:42
Designpositive: Finds it adventurous while remaining tasteful, unlike many art-piece watches. 7:12
Believes it looks good from every angle. 7:39
The co-host thinks the logo suits the watch's vibe. 8:35
Finishing & buildpositive: Finds the engraved, recessed caseback area beautifully executed. 7:39
The co-host notes strong attention to detail throughout. 8:35
Originalitypositive: Doubts buyers will find anything similar easily. 8:06
The co-host finds the floating seconds unusual at its price point. 8:06
Functionalitypositive: Views the water resistance as adequate rather than a selling point. 3:21
Valuepositive: Considers the price very good, particularly for the dial's uniqueness. 7:12
The co-host feels it should cost far more. 8:35

Watch on YouTube

The Calibrated Wrist

The charming Beaubleu Seconde Française 19.24 in Midnight Blue

ArticleHands-on reviewFeb 2025calibre321

Very positiveRecommends

An enthusiastic review. The Seconde Française stands out among dress watches for its round handset, floating seconds, stepped case and supple strap, and offers strong value. The hidden crown makes winding and setting fiddlier, which is the only drawback noted.

Suits: Buyers wanting a distinctive, relaxed French-styled dress watch

What the review says, point by point

Dialpositive: Finds the midnight blue dial elegant and highly legible.
Likes the contrast between the old-style numerals and railway scale and the contemporary handset.
Enjoys the visual effect of the floating second hand.
Case & proportionspositive: Singles out the stepped architecture of the case flanks as a highlight.
Finishing & buildpositive: Finds the alternating polished and brushed surfaces attractive in the light.
Wearabilitypositive: Credits the long, steeply angled lugs with making it comfortable to wear.
Bracelet & strappositive: Finds the supple leather adds luxury and comfort.
Functionalitymixed: Acknowledges that the hidden crown makes winding and time-setting more awkward.
Originalitypositive: Believes it stands out among many men's dress watches.
Valuepositive: Describes the watch as offering outstanding value.

Read on thecalibratedwrist.com

The Knight's Watch

Beaubleu Seconde Francaise Review: Something Different

Video, 25 minHands-on reviewJan 2025

MixedRecommends, with caveats

The reviewer genuinely enjoys the watch for its distinctive floating-seconds, skeletonized handset and compact fit. However, a hidden crown that hurts to wind, near-useless lume, flat printing and an unfinished movement undermine it at around $1,300. The brand's cheaper models may be better value.

Suits: Those wanting an unusual, architectural design that stands out in a collection

Disclosure: Brand loaner

What they said, point by point

Dialmixed: Likes the deep, lacquered enamel-type dial colour. 1:30
Loves the mystery and uniqueness of the floating seconds hand on a sapphire disc. 2:27
Finds the outer dial tracks cluttered and hard to read. 2:56
Wishes for thicker printing and more gloss; feels the dial lacks depth and visual interest. 4:51
Designmixed: Feels the dial, hand and strap colours harmonise. 1:57
Sees the flat, brushed bezel as a misstep against the rounded design language. 8:43
Notes the circular handset makes reading the time take a moment longer. 22:41
Case & proportionsmixed: Praises the unusual case shape seen from the side. 7:46
Considers the relief-stamped caseback a premium touch. 13:04
Finds the case looks thick from the side and wants a slimmer mid-case. 15:56
Wearabilitypositive: Fits a 6.5-inch wrist well. 15:26
Short lug-to-lug suits even smaller wrists. 16:54
Has no complaints about how the case wears. 20:46
Functionalitynegative: Finds the recessed crown with rough knurling painful to hand-wind. 11:38
Rates the crown function extremely poorly. 12:34
Lume only on the central pinion makes it impossible to read the time in the dark. 21:42
Notes the modest water resistance and lack of a screw-down crown. 1:00
Bracelet & strappositive: Thinks the included strap is unusually good. 14:29
Finds the strap thin, pliable and comfortable immediately. 14:29
Tolerates the curved spring bars here because they suit the round design. 14:57
Would have preferred a tang buckle to the butterfly deployant. 15:26
Movementmixed: Considers the stated accuracy a good tolerance. 1:00
Likes the full balance bridge. 1:00
Likes that movement production is revived in France. 0:30
Finds hand-setting rough and gritty. 12:34
Finishing & buildmixed: Finds the movement undecorated and at odds with the design. 14:02
Thinks the rotor is well done. 14:02
Sees no misprints in the dial printing. 6:46
Notes small specks on the seconds disc and hand as a minor QC issue. 5:47
Versatilitypositive: Feels the dark dial matches well with most straps. 1:57
Enjoys it on a white silicone strap for a playful look. 19:19
Originalitypositive: Considers its uniqueness the biggest pro; it stands out in a watch box. 19:48
Has never seen a handset like it elsewhere. 2:56
Valuemixed: Considers the 3-year warranty good for a microbrand. 1:30
Feels the crown experience isn't premium at this price. 12:06
Feels an unfinished movement is a misstep at this price. 23:09
Suggests the brand's roughly $700 watches are a better entry point. 24:07

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Average Bros

Beaubleu – Seconde Française 19.24, Gorgeous French Made Dress watch with a French Caliber

Video, 17 minHands-on reviewJul 2024

Very positiveRecommends

An enthusiastic take on a design-first everyday dress watch. The reviewer praises the dial, sculpted case, fit and French movement, and calls it one of the finest microbrand offerings under $2K. Usability trade-offs such as the tucked crown and absent lume are accepted as deliberate.

Suits: Collectors wanting a quirky, design-led everyday dress watch rather than a one-watch collection

Disclosure: Brand loaner

What they said, point by point

Designpositive: Calls the watch a real stunner at first look. 2:10
Praises the symmetry and repeated circular motifs throughout the design. 3:08
Appreciates that the stepped, layered theme carries from dial into crystal. 5:31
Dialpositive: Considers the dial and handset the highlight of the watch. 12:13
Singles out the floating seconds hand as especially captivating. 14:06
Notes legibility stays good in transitional lighting, which was unexpected for such a design-led piece. 13:38
Observed no visible lume on the prototype, though excuses it for a dress watch. 13:10
Case & proportionspositive: Praises the undercut, stepped midcase that makes the case appear thinner. 4:06
Finds the lug-to-lug manageable, helped by turned-down sculpted lugs. 4:06
Thinks the mainly polished finish with brushed accents was the right choice. 4:34
Likes the hidden crown aesthetically. 3:08
Wearabilitypositive: Says it wears beautifully on a 7.5-inch wrist. 10:17
Finds the apparent height disappears and the watch hugs the wrist. 10:46
Sums up the on-wrist experience as well proportioned with a tailored fit. 14:35
Bracelet & strappositive: Calls the mesh bracelet gorgeous and beautifully integrated. 9:20
Notes a good balance of structure and give for comfort. 9:20
Likes the clean signed buckle that leaves no tail sticking out. 9:50
Movementpositive: Finds the French FE calibre genuinely cool. 6:55
Describes the movement's look as more tool-like than decorative. 7:22
Considers the ±7 seconds per day tuning impressive. 7:51
Finishing & buildpositive: Praises the beautifully sculpted and finished case. 12:41
Likes the shimmer of the vertically brushed bezel. 5:58
Functionalitymixed: Finds the recessed crown awkward to use and hand-wind. 3:08
Frames the watch as form over function, prioritising beauty over convenience. 6:26
Considers 50m water resistance decent given the display back and non-screw crown. 8:50
Versatilitymixed: Positions it as an everyday dress watch that still dresses up. 0:14
Doesn't recommend it as a one-watch collection, favouring it for collectors. 14:06
Originalitypositive: Finds a French-made watch with a French movement especially appealing. 7:51
Appreciates the design themes coming together at both model and brand level. 8:21
Believes it offers the quirks and difference collectors look for. 14:35
Valuepositive: Says it feels like it could cost a couple of thousand dollars. 15:04
Ranks it among the finest microbrand offerings under $2,000. 16:01
Anticipates doubts about paying over $1,000 without sporty specs but dismisses them. 7:51
Compared with: Kurono Tokyo three-hand dress watch: If Kurono gets a pass with Miyota at $1,790, Beaubleu deserves similar credit.

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Mainspring Watch Magazine

BeauBleu Seconde Française Ref. 20.24 Pearl Grey Review | Mainspring Watch Magazine

ArticleHands-on review

Very positiveRecommends

An enthusiastic review. The reviewer praises the circular-hand time display, the floating seconds disc, the original and superbly finished case, and the light, comfortable fit. At its price, the watch is seen as a unique, well-made and wisely spent purchase.

Suits: Enthusiasts of micro/independent horology wanting unique design at an attainable price

What the review says, point by point

Designpositive: Circular hands are seen as a natural match for the round dial and case.
The blue seconds disc pairs well with the white hands and grey dial.
Dialpositive: Reading the unconventional display proved easier than anticipated.
The offset hour-disc notches took a few minutes to get used to.
The floating seconds disc and its moving shadow are a captivating spectacle.
Sculpted relief tracks are subtle, visible only when wanted, matching the relaxed concept.
Case & proportionspositive: Calls the case sublime thanks to its unique look and top finishing.
The sloping ledge detail shows the care put into the design.
Finds the small, tucked-away crown still easy to use.
Wearabilitypositive: Proportions suit the reviewer's wrist well.
Notes the light weight on the mesh bracelet.
Bracelet & strappositive: The clasp can be fastened anywhere, fitting any wrist size.
The fitted mesh complements the case contours and finish.
Movementpositive: Infers robustness from the calibre's link to Soprod.
Finds the movement handsome through the sapphire caseback.
Finishing & buildpositive: Polished and brushed surfaces flow seamlessly across the case.
Singles out the mirror polishing on the case ledge.
Functionalitypositive: Double-domed AR-coated sapphire gives clear visibility and peace of mind.
Originalitypositive: Circular hands feel like an idea no one had before.
Calls it a masterpiece of creativity and construction.
Acknowledges the unconventional design may not suit everyone.
Valuepositive: Argues spending over $1,000 on it would be money well spent.
Believes a Swiss-made equivalent would cost far more.

Read on mainspring.watch

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TimeToGo Travel And Timepieces

Not Your Typical Dress Watch! - The Seconde Francaise 20.24 from Beaubleu Watches

Video, 6 minHands-on reviewFeb 2025

PositiveRecommends, with caveats

Enthusiastic about the distinctive circular design, floating blue seconds and sculpted case with good finishing. Notes limited legibility and a recessed crown that is awkward to wind and set, but still calls it a killer, very cool watch.

Suits: Those wanting an unconventional dress watch with strong design identity

Disclosure: Brand loaner

Turned out not to be about this watch, so it isn't counted.

What they said, point by point

Designpositive: Finds the repeated circular motifs across the dial beautiful. 0:59
Enjoys the touch of colour from the blue floating seconds hand. 2:25
Dialmixed: Admires the invisible sapphire disc behind the floating second hand. 1:28
Notes crisp dial printing. 1:56
Finds legibility limited, though workable to within a minute or two once used to it. 1:56
Finds the lume bright and long-lasting, though the watch is still hard to read at night. 2:25
Case & proportionspositive: Likes the recessed crown keeping the case fully circular from the front. 2:54
Praises the side profile, with a pushed-in lower section that makes it look thinner. 3:24
Finds the sharply down-turned lugs modern-looking. 3:24
Functionalitynegative: Finds the recessed crown hard to wind, so resorts to shaking the watch. 3:50
Setting the time is also fiddly, though still prefers this to a protruding crown. 4:18
Finishing & buildpositive: Rates the finish work as very good. 3:24
Sees strong attention to detail beyond the dial. 2:25
Movementpositive: Considers the movement attractive. 3:24
Glad it is automatic, given how hard the crown is to wind. 3:50
Bracelet & strappositive: Rates the grained leather strap with quick-release curved bars as good quality. 4:18
Finds the deployant clasp good but fairly generic. 4:46
Would pay extra for the uncommon fitted mesh, which looks sharp. 4:46
Originalitypositive: Values that the watch is instantly identifiable as a Beaubleu through shared design cues. 0:59
Sees it as an interesting take on the sector dial. 0:59
Wearabilitypositive: Enthusiastic about the watch's on-wrist appearance. 5:15

Watch on YouTube

Specifications

Reference: 19.24
Case: 39mm, 316L stainless steel
Thickness: 10.2mm
Lug to lug: 45mm
Movement: France Ébauche Calibre FE (automatic)
Power reserve: 46 hours
Water resistance: 50m
Crystal: curved sapphire; sapphire display caseback
Bracelet or strap: leather strap with steel deployant clasp, or Milanese steel mesh bracelet (20mm lug width)
Announced: May 2024
List price (US): $1,669US-facing price $1,669 on leather strap (beaubleu-paris.com, Sept 2026)

Creator Consensus is built only from what reviewers said. Prices, retailers and any commercial relationship never affect it. How consensus works