The signature bunny motif makes its return to the tonneau-shaped dial (All photos: Franck Muller)
Haute horologer Franck Muller and Japanese streetwear iconoclast #FR2 are no strangers to each other. In 2023, the Lunar Year of the Rabbit, the pair joined forces for the first time to produce the #FR2NCK MULLER Vanguard, a limited edition timepiece in monochromatic colour scheme with the fashion label’s bunny motif in place of the 7 and 8 hour markers.
Following the smashing success of this initial collaboration, the pair have come together once again for a new creation — the #FR2NCK MULLER Vanguard Beach Limited Edition. Playing on the original watch’s sporty nature and daring imagery, this summer model takes on the vibrant hues of Heatwave Red, Surf Blue and Tropical Green, perfectly saturated for the high heat. Exclusive to the Asia-Pacific region, each colour iteration is limited to 300 pieces.
To obtain these vivid colours, glass was melted at 1,500°C and spun into fine threads before being cooled into sheets at 700°C, then dunked into dye baths and compressed into fibreglass blocks.
The finished Vanguard cases, complete with sapphire crystal glass, are water-resistant to 30m.
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The signature bunny motif makes its return to the tonneau-shaped dial, now depicted on a surfboard, under a beach umbrella or amid lush vegetation. A date window at 2 o’clock with a yellow border serves as the blazing summer sun. The rabbits and obelisk hands are painted with Super-LumiNova, allowing the dials to glow in the dark.
Nylon straps with leather undersides complete each watch. The velcro closures, featuring titanium and resin blend loops, were incorporated for fuss-free wearing. Fun details, from bold texts referencing Japanese street style to graphics that continue the dial’s playful motifs, are printed along the white bands.
At the heart of it all is the MVT 2536-SCDT2H, a bidirectional automatic movement. The balance wheel’s 28,800 vibrations per hour increase accuracy throughout the 42-hour power reserve.
This article first appeared on July 21, 2025 in The Edge Malaysia.
