orqain launches a new sub-collection in its Adventure family: Neverest. These are the first timepieces in the Adventure collection to be fitted with the high-performance Manufacture Calibre NN20/1, which the brand developed in partnership with Kenissi.

The name “Neverest” speaks to Norqain’s positive attitude, momentum, and never-resting approach to climbing industry summits. Underscoring the collection’s connection to Mt. Everest, part of the inspiration behind the name, is Norqain’s support of the Butterfly Help Project in Nepal, which was founded by Norbu Sherpa and Andrea Sherpa-Zimmermann of Wild Yak Expeditions.

From the very beginning, mountain climbing has been a part of Norqain’s story – from the Swiss Alps in the logo to Mt. Everest, the inspiration behind the newest collection. The launch of Neverest is the start of a new chapter in Norqain’s on-going adventure; a story that now includes a partnership that helps others overcome challenges and enjoy the view from the top.

“I am deeply touched by the stories of Sherpa families in Nepal, and I speak for the entire Norqain team when I say how honoured we are to be involved with the Butterfly Help Project and their admirable cause. With this partnership, we can positively impact the lives of children in need and give them a brighter future by sending them to school. This is the most important thing we have done as a brand”, says Norqain CEO Ben Küffer.

Ten per cent of the earnings of Neverest sales will be donated to the Butterfly Help Project. This organisation, created by Norbu Sherpa and Andrea Sherpa-Zimmermann of Wild Yak Expeditions, helps families of sherpas who have lost their lives in the Himalayan mountains and gives their children access to education.

Andrea Sherpa-Zimmermann from Switzerland and Norbu Sherpa, who has successfully climbed Mt. Everest seven times and has earned the title of Sirdar, met in 2011 when Andrea attempted to summit Cho Oyu with Norbu leading the way. They founded Wild Yak Expeditions in 2014 and were married two years later in 2016, when Andrea also conquered Mt. Everest.

With Wild Yak Expeditions, Norbu and Andrea not only want to make the dreams of mountaineers and adventurous travellers come true; they also want to give something back to Nepal’s people, who may not have the same chances in life. They believe that education leads the way to opportunity, which is why Andrea and Norbu founded the Butterfly Help Project.

Norqain shares this belief and has committed to sending 50 children to school in 2021 and supporting them in the coming years. With earnings from the sales of Neverest watches, the independent brand will support more children in need through the Butterfly Help Project. The financial aid they receive through the sales of Neverest watches will pay for school fees, classroom material, books, uniforms, and athletic equipment.

“We are so grateful for Norqain’s contribution to the Butterfly Help Project”, say Norbu Sherpa and Andrea Sherpa-Zimmermann. “Not only are they helping to change the lives of children in Nepal, but they are also bringing greater awareness to the adventure of climbing Mt. Everest and how it impacts sherpas and their families”.

Inspired by the appearance of the world’s highest peak, the Adventure Neverest 40mm Glacier has a silvery look – from the steel brushed and satined case, to the grey bezel and dial. Red accents like the zero marker on the grey bezel ring, the central seconds hand and the “Chronometer” inscription stand out against the cracked white dial. The cracks resemble the jagged crevasses of Khumbu Icefall, the most dangerous stage of the climb to Everest’s summit.

The markers and hour, minute and seconds hands are coated in X1 Superluminova, which is 60% stronger than the standard Superluminova. A knurled texture on the edge of the steel bezel and the unidirectional-rotating click system make it easier to manipulate and keep track of passed time.

This Neverest model is presented on a stainless steel bracelet (CHF 3’250.00), a textured rubber strap (CHF 3’050.00) or a flexible fabric strap (CHF 3’050.00). At its heart is the powerful Norqain Manufacture Calibre NN20/1. This watch is water resistant to 200 metres and can go on adventures from the world’s highest peak to below the ocean’s surface.

Attracting explorers and watch admirers alike, the Adventure Neverest in steel and gold is limited to 100 pieces – as indicated by the caseback engraving of “ONE OF 100”. The 40mm timepiece has an 18ct 5N red gold bezel fitted with a black ceramic ring. For optimal handling, the edge of the unidirectional-rotating bezel is knurled.

The dial features a new take on the characteristic “Norqain pattern” with a grey and black design constructed through a complex production process. The "Chronometer” indication in red matches the tip of the central seconds hand. This captivating model has three bracelet and strap options to choose from: a textured black rubber strap with the same knurled style as the bezel (CHF 4’380.00), a steel bracelet with an additional security clasp (CHF 4’580.00), or a flexible fabric strap (CHF 4’380.00).

Norqain also presents a sportier version of the timepiece with its recognisable dial pattern in forest green and black – a dynamic look for the unique dial design. Its stainless steel bezel has a black ceramic ring. Like its limited edition counterpart, this model is available with a stainless steel bracelet (CHF 3’190.00), a black rubber strap (CHF 2’990.00) or flexible fabric strap (CHF 2’990.00).

Both models are water resistant to 200 metres, making them the most water-resistant timepieces in Norqain’s entire collection.