In the world of watchmaking, Louis Erard has once again delved into classical craftsmanship, drawing inspiration from the 19th century. Their objective is to showcase that a watch is not just a timekeeping device but also a means of personal expression, akin to a wrist notebook where intricate mechanical tales unfold. Continuing their collaborative journey, Louis Erard has partnered with Massena LAB once more, following their previous success with “Le Régulateur,” a timepiece shortlisted for the prestigious Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève. This time, their joint endeavor focuses on the monopusher chronograph, a highly technical specialty featuring a single pusher for starting, stopping, and resetting the chronograph function. With elegant simplicity, Louis Erard presents a single 30-minute totalizer on a separate dial at 12 o’clock, while Massena LAB lends their distinctive touch.
The Essence of Massena LAB
Massena LAB, aptly named, is a laboratory of horology, guided by the expertise of William Massena, a renowned figure in the realm of watch collectors. With his own passion for timepieces, Massena previously served as the head of Antiquorum before launching his own platform in 2018. This platform, not a brand itself but a collaborative hub, aims to democratize the style typically reserved for affluent collectors—specifically, historical watchmaking from the 18th and 19th centuries. Massena follows in the footsteps of visionaries such as Antide Janvier and the pursuit of marine chronometry, constantly striving to make the exceptional accessible.
Merging Excellence and Accessibility
The meeting between Louis Erard and Massena LAB was a natural progression, driven by a shared goal to promote and celebrate the timepieces they hold dear. Manuel Emch, the CEO and creative director of Louis Erard, has cultivated a brand culture steeped in horological heritage, embracing métiers d’art, cutting-edge collaborations, independent watchmakers, and creative minds. This dedication to watchmaking culture aligns perfectly with Massena LAB’s mission, resulting in a formidable partnership. Emch’s approach to opening Louis Erard’s collections to a wider audience, previously reserved for connoisseurs, further echoes their shared vision of making horological artistry inclusive.
The Pursuit of Excellence
The essence of excellence is evident in every aspect of their collaboration. The meticulous attention to detail is palpable in the style and finishing of the monopusher chronograph. From the rhodium-plated outer flange and counter with circular satin-finish and diamond-cut corners to the rhodium-plated or 2N gilded lower plate with grained finish and silver opaline counter center, no element is overlooked. Notably, the timepiece features black transfers bearing the symbols of Louis Erard and Massena LAB at six o’clock, a testament to their joint endeavor. This unwavering commitment to excellence ensures that each creation is crafted by hand, eschewing mass production in favor of exclusivity.
Limited Edition: Together We Are Stronger
True to their collaborative spirit, the Le Chronographe Monopoussoir louiserard x massenalab is produced in a limited series of 178 pieces. This number symbolizes the power of unity, embracing the philosophy that together, they are stronger. The timepiece is available in two variations: a rhodium-plated or gilded dial, further reflecting the harmony of their partnership.
Looking Towards the Future
As William Massena rightfully asserts, a collaboration must have purpose and meaning to succeed. With this in mind, both Louis Erard and Massena LAB are poised to unveil more meaningful horological marvels in the future. Their shared passion for watchmaking and dedication to preserving and promoting its heritage ensures that their ongoing collaboration will continue to captivate and delight enthusiasts and collectors alike.
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