In the previous season, the Escale Cabinet of Wonders trilogy explored intricate and artistic timepieces. Now, the focus shifts to the essence of timekeeping: hours, minutes, and seconds. To commemorate the 10th anniversary of Louis Vuitton’s Escale, the Maison introduces a new collection that showcases a time-only, three-hand edition for the first time in a decade. This range combines topography, tactile surfaces, elevated case design, and exquisite finishes with the timeless tradition of Swiss horology, resulting in a movement that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional.
Expanding the range of the collection, the new Escale time-only watches consist of four distinct models. Two models feature rose gold with textured dials, perfect for everyday wear, while the other two models are crafted in platinum and adorned with precious stones. Just like their predecessors, the lugs of these watches replicate the angular design and riveted appearance of brass components found on Louis Vuitton trunks.
Furthermore, the dial of these watches also pays homage to the brass reinforcements. Each quarter of the dial is adorned with hand-applied polished gold markers, which hold the primary dial and the outer minuterie together. The minuterie, designed to resemble the lozine nails on a Louis Vuitton trunk, features gold studs. The brushing and slight concave camber on the minuterie not only enhance its visual texture but also ensure excellent legibility.
Accommodating the intricate dial of the Escale models is no easy task. The seconds hand of all Escale models is carefully curved to match the dial, ensuring high accuracy and reducing the chances of parallax error. The chronometer-certified cal. LFT023 adds to this precision with a 50-hour power reserve, thanks to energy-efficient technologies like titanium seconds hands. Special methods were developed to overcome titanium’s flexibility without staining, resulting in a PVD-coloured seconds hand that matches the gold hour and minute hands.
The rose-gold models draw inspiration from the finely grained surface of the Louis Vuitton Monogram canvas, featuring a new dial texture. As light reflects off the minuterie and faceted hour indices, it guides the viewer's gaze over the captivating textures and finishes. At 12 o’clock, the word “PARIS” sums up the Escale's creative revival, placed below the “LOUIS VUITTON” label.
The rose-gold Escale comes with a calf-leather strap that pays homage to Louis Vuitton’s expertise in leather goods. The strap features fine yellow stitching, reminiscent of vintage Louis Vuitton leather goods, symbolising the meticulous craftsmanship that defines the Maison. The platinum versions of the new Escale elevate the collection with lapidary work and gem-setting, showcasing rare materials and techniques.
One model is decorated with meteorite dials, carefully chosen to highlight the unique u and textures of the stone. In another model, the bezel and case are adorned with baguette-cut diamonds, creating a stunning halo that draws attention to the dark and mysterious black dial. The black dial contrasts beautifully with the shimmering onyx centre dial. The white-gold hands of both models create a pleasing monochromatic effect, playing with light and shadow.
When it comes to incorporating different materials into the 39 mm case, maintaining a harmonious balance is crucial. The size of the case has been carefully selected to ensure it fits perfectly on the wrist. The case-back features a sapphire crystal, allowing a glimpse of the precise and exquisite Cal. LFT023, the watch’s intricate mechanism. The case is designed with flutes on alternate sides to make winding and setting easier, while the crown rests seamlessly against a satin-brushed case centre. The lugs of the watch are hand-polished and brushed, adorned with decorative rivets.
Visit www.louisvuitton.com for more information.
