public relations

Client Stories

Quiet Elegance, Redefined: Minase Unveils the Mastercraft J3 at Geneva Watch Days 2026


An Ode to Ultimate Simplicity and Japanese Craftsmanship

In the quiet universe of high horology, true luxury often speaks in a whisper rather than a shout. This August, Japanese boutique manufacture Minase unveils its latest creation, the Mastercraft J3, set to make its official debut at Geneva Watch Days at the Beau-Rivage Palace.

Drawing inspiration from the iconic M3 series, internationally celebrated through special editions like the M3 Nori, the Mastercraft J3 pays homage to Minase’s origins while introducing a fresh, modern aesthetic. It represents a subtle, poetic dialogue between timeless Japanese artisanal tradition and contemporary lifestyle requirements.

Refined Dimensions and Micro-Artisanal Sallaz Polishing

To achieve a silhouette that feels like a natural extension of the wrist, Minase has thoughtfully refined the timepiece’s proportions. The Mastercraft J3 features a versatile 37.0 mm cushion-shaped case with an ultra-slim 9.9 mm profile, offering a unisex design suited for both his and her wardrobes.

At the heart of Minase’s design philosophy is an unwavering dedication to hand-finishing. Each steel surface of the J3 is painstakingly hand-polished using the ancient Sallaz polishing technique. This rare artisanal method yields mirror-like, distortion-free surfaces juxtaposed with razor-sharp edges, catching the light in a delicate dance of highlights and soft shadows.

Light Sand Dials and Japanese Heartbeat

The dial of the Mastercraft J3 acts as a canvas of subtle texture and depth. Offered in three classic colorways, White, Beige, and Black, the light-sand finished dials interact gracefully with ambient lighting. Sharp-cut luminescent hands and indexes ensure optimal readability, bathing the dial in a gentle blue glow after dusk.

Marking a historic milestone for the brand, the J3 is the first Minase line to feature a high-grade Japanese movement: the MIYOTA 90S5 automatic caliber. Boasting a 28,800 VPH (4Hz) frequency and a 42-hour power reserve, this reliable engine reflects Minase’s commitment to delivering accessible, authentic Japanese mechanical craftsmanship.

Personalized Versatility for the Modern Collector

Designed for effortless adaptability, the Mastercraft J3 incorporates a one-touch quick-change strap mechanism. Wearers can effortlessly customize their look across a range of options:

  • Classic Stainless Steel Bracelet
  • Crocodile-Embossed Calf Leather Straps
  • Versatile Rubber Straps
  • Smooth Calf Leather Straps

Key Technical Specifications

FeatureSpecification
Case Size37.0 mm Diameter | 9.9 mm Thickness
Case MaterialStainless Steel with Sallaz Hand-Polishing
Glass & Water ResistanceSapphire Crystal | 5 ATM (50 meters)
Dial OptionsLight Sand Texture (White, Beige, Black)
MovementJapanese Miyota 90S5 Automatic Caliber
Power ReserveApprox. 42 Hours (28,800 VPH)
Strap OptionsInterchangeable Steel, Calf Leather, or Rubber

Availability & Pricing

The Minase Mastercraft J3 will officially launch during Geneva Watch Days at the Beau-Rivage Hotel. Collectors and enthusiasts worldwide can also pre-order timepieces through the official Minase Webshop with worldwide delivery.

Contact us for the full press release.

Client Stories

Frederique Constant Classics Runabout Automatic GMT: A Tribute to the Dolce Vita


The dolce vita takes on a new level of Manufacture sophistication

Blending the essence of Italian elegance with Genevan horological savoir-faire, the new Frederique Constant Classics Runabout Automatic GMT is a highly coveted collector’s piece. Since 2013, Frederique Constant has partnered with the Riva Historical Society, releasing limited-edition timepieces every two years to honor and support the preservation of these legendary wooden boats.

A Tribute to the Riva Historical Society

For 2026, this nautical-inspired collection reinvents itself with a stunning 42mm timepiece available in two breathtaking versions: abyssal blue and teak brown. These colors pay a passionate homage to the classic vessels preserved by the Riva Historical Society.

The Manufacture GMT Complication: A Collector’s Dream

What truly sets the 2026 Classics Runabout apart for watch collectors is the integration of an in-house Manufacture GMT module. Adding to the reliable FC-350 automatic caliber base, this dual-time complication features a central hand with a luminescent arrowhead, alongside a date display at 6 o’clock. This addition perfectly embodies Frederique Constant’s founding mission: offering high-end Swiss watchmaking at a competitive price point. The retail price is set at 2.095€.

Nautical Aesthetics: Abyssal Blue and Teak Brown Dials

Aesthetically, the dials are a masterclass in nautical luxury. They feature a vertical satin finish at the center, meticulously designed to evoke the hand-assembled teak wooden decks of classic Riva boats. The deep blue dial naturally reflects the waters of the Mediterranean, while the brown elegantly represents the wood tones.
To ensure optimal legibility, the 24-hour second time zone is centrally displayed, removing the need for a day/night indicator. The dial is finished with luminescent “old radium” beige Arabic numerals and baton hour markers in a slightly vintage typography that suits the heritage of the Riva Historical Society.

Technical Specifications & Limited Edition Exclusivity

  • Case: The watch features a 42mm polished three-part stainless steel case. It is water-resistant up to 5 ATM, which is equivalent to 50 meters or 164 feet.
  • Movement: It is powered by the automatic FC-350 caliber. It features a 38-hour power reserve, operates at 28,800 alt/h, and contains 26 jewels.
  • Straps: The blue dial version comes with a black rubber strap and a pin buckle. The brown dial version is paired with a brown genuine leather strap and a folding buckle. Both straps feature tone-on-tone stitching.
  • Exclusivity: Production is strictly limited to 888 units for each dial version. The case back features an engraved “ONE OF 888” limited edition inscription.
  • Presentation: The case back utilizes smoked sapphire crystal to reveal vertical Côtes de Genève finishing alongside the Riva Historical Society flag logo. The timepiece is presented in a luxurious gift box alongside a miniature replica of a Runabout boat.

Sparkling PR is the exclusive public relations agency for Frederique Constant in the Portuguese market only.

Contact us to receive the full press release.

Sparkling News

Sparkling PR Shortlisted at the WatchPro US Awards 2026


Sparkling PR is proud to announce that we have been shortlisted in the Best Marketing Support category at the WatchPro US Awards 2026, recognizing our expertise in strategic communications and marketing for the U.S. luxury watch industry.

The WatchPro US Awards celebrate excellence across the American watch market, honoring the brands, retailers, distributors, suppliers, and service providers shaping one of the world’s most dynamic luxury sectors. Being recognized among this year’s finalists is an important milestone for Sparkling PR and reflects our continued commitment to helping watch brands succeed in the United States.

Supporting Watch Brands in the U.S. Market

Expanding into the U.S. requires more than visibility, it demands market knowledge, cultural understanding, and the ability to connect with the right audiences.

At Sparkling PR, we specialize in helping luxury watch brands build meaningful awareness through strategic public relations, integrated marketing, media relations, content creation, influencer partnerships, and event communications.

Whether supporting established Swiss watch brands or emerging luxury brands, our focus is always the same: developing thoughtful communications strategies that create long-term brand value and measurable impact in the U.S. market.

A Boutique Agency with Global Reach

As an independent luxury communications agency, Sparkling PR offers a highly personalized approach built on industry expertise, close client relationships, and an in-depth understanding of the international watch sector.

Our work regularly connects brands with leading U.S. watch media, influential voices, retailers, collectors, and industry stakeholders, helping clients strengthen their presence in one of the world’s most competitive luxury markets.

Being shortlisted for Best Marketing Support is a meaningful recognition of the specialist knowledge, creativity, and strategic thinking that define our work every day.

Thank You to Our Clients and Partners

This recognition would not be possible without the trust of our clients and the collaboration of the editors, journalists, creators, retailers, and industry partners who continue to inspire and support our work.

We are grateful to everyone who has been part of our journey and proud to contribute to an industry driven by innovation, craftsmanship, and enduring excellence.

We also extend our congratulations to all of the outstanding brands, companies and individuals shortlisted for the 2026 WatchPro US Awards.

About Sparkling PR

Sparkling PR is an international luxury communications agency specializing in public relations, strategic marketing, and brand communications for the watch, jewelry, luxury lifestyle, and design industries. With extensive experience supporting brands in the U.S. market, Sparkling PR develops tailored communications strategies that elevate brand visibility, strengthen reputation, and foster meaningful connections with consumers, media, retailers, and industry professionals.

Client Stories

Illuminated Elegance: Discover the Frederique Constant Classics Moneta Solarmetre


The pursuit of an inexhaustible energy source has accompanied watchmaking for centuries. While traditional mechanical watchmaking continues to refine the autonomy of its movements, modern innovation presents an elegant alternative. Frederique Constant, staying true to its philosophy of accessible luxury, proudly unveils the Classics Moneta Solarmetre, a timepiece where classic aesthetic codes gracefully conceal cutting-edge solar technology.

The Seamless Integration of Solar Innovation

At the heart of the new Classics Moneta Solarmetre beats the pioneering FC-120 solar calibre, meticulously developed in collaboration with the renowned Manufacture La Joux-Perret. While photovoltaic energy is not a novel concept in the industry, its application has historically compromised design due to the visual impact of solar cells.

Frederique Constant has masterfully overcome this hurdle. The architecture of the dial is constructed in three ingenious layers:

  • The visual dial: Appears entirely opaque but is microscopically permeable to light.

  • The solar layer: Houses the photovoltaic cells situated on the second tier.

  • The movement: The remarkably slim FC-120 caliber houses a rechargeable battery capable of converting and storing light as electrical energy.

As long as there is light, the watch continues to run. Even in complete darkness, the Classics Moneta Solarmetre retains an astonishing power reserve of up to ten months.

Aesthetic Harmony: The Coin-Edged Masterpiece

The Solarmetre inherits the collection’s hallmark: a beautifully fluted inner bezel inspired by the ridged profile of antique coins. This new iteration introduces a refined 39 mm polished stainless-steel case, beautifully proportioned with a slender thickness of just 8.52 mm. The sophisticated grained finish on the dial, a first for the collection, adds exceptional depth.

Versatility for the Modern Luxury Consumer

Understanding the dynamic lifestyle of today’s clientele, Frederique Constant delivers the Classics Moneta Solarmetre with a versatile dual-strap system. Each timepiece is accompanied by both a classic crocodile-pattern leather strap and a sleek, interchangeable stainless-steel Milanese mesh bracelet.

Technical Specifications for Press & Retailers

  • References: FC-120W3S6 (Cloud White), FC-120LB3S6 (Glacier Blue), FC-120BRG3S6 (Bordeaux)

  • Movement: FC-120 Solar Quartz Caliber

  • Autonomy: Up to 10 months in total darkness

  • Case Details: 39 mm diameter, 8.52 mm thickness, 5 ATM / 50m water resistance

A New Benchmark in Accessible Luxury

Priced at €1,250, the Classics Moneta Solarmetre stands as a testament to the brand’s ingenuity. It is an invitation for watch enthusiasts to embrace a technologically advanced timepiece without compromising on traditional Swiss elegance.

Sparkling PR is the official PR and Communications agency for Frederique Constant in the Portuguese market.

For press inquiries, high-resolution imagery, or sample requests, please contact our team.

Follow our instagram to keep up with our client news.

Perspectives

The Stories Behind Luxury


Luxury has never been solely about products. While exclusivity remain essential, what increasingly distinguishes successful luxury brands is their ability to tell compelling stories.

In a landscape where consumers are exposed to countless marketing messages every day, storytelling has become one of the most powerful tools for creating emotional connections and long-term brand relevance.

Today’s consumers, particularly younger generations, are looking for more than aesthetics or status. They want to understand a brand’s values, heritage, inspiration, and purpose. As a result, luxury campaigns are increasingly moving beyond product-focused communication and embracing narratives that create meaning. Whether through founder stories, cultural heritage, or exceptional craftsmanship, luxury brands are increasingly using storytelling to create emotional connections.

Independent watchmaker Minase, for example. The brand communicates the philosophy of Japanese craftsmanship and the human expertise behind every timepiece. Demonstrating that consumers are often drawn as much to the story behind a product as to the product itself.

LUXURY STORYTELLING TAKES MANY FORMS

Luxury storytelling takes many forms. While brands such as Minase build their narrative around human expertise, others focus on emotion, heritage, and imagination.

Van Cleef & Arpels, for example, has long created collections inspired by poetry, nature, ballet, and fairy tales, transforming jewellery into stories that evoke emotion and wonder. As the Maison explains: “Since its founding in 1906, Van Cleef & Arpels has often turned to nature as an inexhaustible source of inspiration. Enthralled by the constant metamorphoses of flora and fauna, the Maison creates pieces that echo the blooming of flowers and the lushness of gardens.”

Similarly, A. Lange & Söhne‘s communication is deeply rooted in heritage and the revival of German watchmaking following reunification. The brand’s story is closely linked to its origins in Glashütte and the relaunch of the manufacture in 1990 by Walter Lange, the great-grandson of founder Ferdinand Adolph Lange. As the company states: “Our values and aspirations are closely linked to the history of Saxon fine watchmaking.”

In each of these examples, the product is only part of the story. What truly resonates with audiences is the narrative that surrounds it. The history, the culture, and the values that give meaning to the object itself.

TURNING STORIES INTO CONNECTIONS

At a time when consumers are looking for authenticity, meaning, and emotional connection, storytelling has become one of the most valuable assets a luxury brand can possess. Products may attract attention, but it is the stories behind them that create engagement, build trust, and foster long-term loyalty.

Whether rooted in culture or personal vision. The most successful luxury brands understand that every creation carries a narrative worth sharing. The challenge is not simply having a story, but knowing how to communicate it to the right audience, through the right channels, at the right moment.

At Sparkling PR, we work with brands that have meaningful stories to tell. From independent watchmakers and luxury maisons, we believe that strategic communication is about transforming those stories into conversations that resonate with audiences, media, and industry stakeholders alike.

Because in today’s luxury landscape, storytelling is no longer an addition to communication, it is communication itself.

What story is your brand telling?

Follow Sparkling PR on Instagram for more insights on luxury, culture, and communication. If your brand has a story worth telling, get in touch with our team to discover how strategic public relations can help bring that story to the right audience.