An Asia Pacific exclusive, the new Franck Muller Vanguard Sport blends bold case design with a radiant dial
It may still be early in the year but Franck Muller has already released an exclusive timepiece dressed in its ever-familiar self-assuredness. In many ways, the sentiment should go without saying; we’ve come to expect nothing less from the boundary-pushing maison.
The newly released Asia Pacific exclusive Vanguard Sport is the latest addition to the brand’s iconic Vanguard series. More than a decade since the Vanguard case—with its lug-less silhouette and sporty allure—was introduced, the watchmaker continues to build on the same underlying principles that made it resonate with collectors.
Sporting a 42.5mm stainless steel tonneau case, the Vanguard Sport pairs its rounded curves and sculptural form with a striking dial that will immediately catch the eye. While the Vanguard Asia Pacific exclusive edition from 2025 brought an intricate pavé de losanges guilloché pattern to accentuate its geometric allure, this year’s timepiece does so in a more radiant fashion.
Coming in four different colours—brilliant copper, navy, green, and red—the Vanguard Sport’s lacquer dial is adorned with radial lines that emerge from its centre. This striking element, combined with the dial’s brushed finish, allows the timepiece to shimmer when hit by light while maintaining a sense of subtlety and sophistication. Adding further depth to the dial are its hand-applied numerals and flange, while a date window at 6 o’clock completes the composition.
More than just striking to the eye, the dial adds a touch of contrast against its curvaceous and contemporary silhouette. Paired with the elegantly decorated dial, the Vanguard’s decidedly sporty aesthetic is elevated, resulting in a watch that is surprisingly versatile. And when you add its accompanying alligator leather strap with a rubber underside to the equation, well, you get the point.
Powered by the MVD 2536-SCDT automatic calibre, the Vanguard Sport comes with a 42-hour power reserve. While its time-and-date display remains intentionally restrained, the movement is finished to a high degree, featuring Côtes de Genève, perlage, bevelled edges and diamond-polished details.
