Louis Moinet plays its part in the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie (FHH), and thereby encourages its remarkable initiatives to promote, enhance and maintain worldwide excellence in watchmaking.
Established in 2004 in the Swiss canton of Neuchâtel, Ateliers Louis Moinet bears an important name, that of the horologist who was a friend and confidant of Abraham-Louis Breguet. His inventions notably include the compteur de tierces. Created in 1816, this instrument designed to facilitate astronomical observations is acknowledged as the first chronograph in watchmaking history. The same spirit of innovation characterises the Louis Moinet brand today. CEO & Creative Director Jean-Marie Schaller and his team work together to produce avant-garde mechanical watches endowed with a strong personality, available exclusively as one-offs or in small series. Many creations incorporate rare, interstellar or prehistoric materials. This approach is embodied in two collections – Cosmic Art and Mechanical Wonders – consistently comprising highly complex creations.
As Schaller explained: "It is a privilege to join the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie, whose work I have always admired. Showcasing fine watchmaking is the most beautiful mission there is. ”Twenty years after presiding over the rebirth of Louis Moinet, he has made the famous watchmaker's motto his own: " Invention must be for the sake of art."
Wonders of the World
"Life is a journey and joining the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie is an important step," says Schaller. "To celebrate this milestone, I am pleased to introduce a new Wonders of the World concept. As a foretaste, we are unveiling a model dedicated to the Pyramid at Chichén Itzá, in Mexico. It is the first in a series of eight one-of-a-creations, each featuring a Wonder of the World."
This timepiece highlights the craftsmanship and excellence of contemporary watchmaking. The Louis Moinet tourbillon, gold medal winner at the last International Chronometry Competition, is thus associated with a wonder of the world.
The bas relief-engraved, finely chased famous feathered serpent and various architectural elements are paired with aventurine in order to further enhance the brilliance of this stone symbolising the Maya’s cherished underworld theme.
The pyramid itself is adorned with Myanmar jade of exceptional quality, the very same material from which the Maya crafted their masks and statuettes 3,000 years ago.
Topped by 96 snow-set rubies, the pyramid is also surrounded by baguette-cut sapphires in a subtle colour gradient.
