LOUIS MOINET – Mechanical Wonders ASTRONEF Edition

 

LOUIS MOINET – Mechanical Wonders ASTRONEF Double Tourbillon Limited Edition 2021 

Click, to see the large size. ▶ BIG FOTO

A true marvel of contemporary mechanical watchmaking, ASTRONEF combines ancestral know-how with futuristic technology.

The complex dial of ASTRONEF is made from a plate measuring a total 0.6mm thick, from which 0.2 mm is then hollowed out to reveal the numerals and a rack, in order to create a depth effect facilitating readings. The ensuing deep black DLC treatment creates a striking contrast with the rhodium plating and endows it with a two-tone hue. Finally, a circular satin-brushed finish is applied to instill it with undeniable strength of character.

Click, to see the large size. ▶ BIG FOTO

The case of ASTRONEF incorporates a sapphire container mounted on an 18K gold frame, open-worked lugs and case middle and a sapphire dome and its applied inner bezel ring.

THE ESSENCE OF DESIGN

"Produce an excellent and curious effect": this maxim upheld by Louis Moinet (1848) was our starting point for designing ASTRONEF. The idea is to push back known limits, just as Louis Moinet did in his time – notably by inventing the chronograph in 1816.  

Click, to see the large size. ▶ BIG FOTO

The ASTRONEF mechanism required more than three years of research. Given its totally innovative character, its development was even considered impossible at various stages of research and almost discontinued. The fact that ASTRONEF was finally able to see the light of day was due to the concerted efforts of the finest watchmakers and engineers.

Click, to see the large size. ▶ BIG FOTO

This mysterious horological mechanism is hidden in the base of the frame, which is only 3.75 mm thick. The advantage of this construction is that it clears the stage to enhance the magic of the show being staged. The spectacular design linked to the complexity of the mechanism is marked by its control tower – or central column – which transmits the orders to the tourbillons and hands.

Today, one can safely state that ASTRONEF is one of the most important superwatches.

A COMPLEX DIAL

 

The dial is made from a plate measuring a total 0.6 mm thick, from which 0.2 mm is then hollowed out to reveal the numerals and a rack, in order to create a depth effect facilitating readings.
 

Click, to see the large size. ▶ BIG FOTO

The ensuing deep black DLC treatment creates a striking contrast with the rhodium plating and endows it with a two-tone hue. Finally, a circular satin-brushed finish is applied to instil it with undeniable strength of character.

SUPER-LIGHT

 

The curved crystal of ASTRONEF reveals the powerful mechanism and its power is accentuated by the lightness of its gold frame and sapphire container. This maximum transparency enables observers to admire a unique sight. The technical construction of the case is unusual: a sapphire container mounted on an 18K gold frame openworked lugs and case middle a sapphire dome and its applied inner bezel ring

TECHNOLOGY SERVING AESTHETICS

 

ASTRONEF showcases recently introduced technology involving two tourbillons rotating in opposite directions at high speed. They cross paths 18 times per hour (every 3 minutes and 20 seconds) and are built on two different levels.

Click, to see the large size. ▶ BIG FOTO

This gives life to a captivating animation, which unfolds before the wondering gaze. In all, six distinct elements are in motion: two satellite tourbillons rotating around the dial, as well as their two cages and their two counterweights.

 

ASTRONEF has been designed to instil a sense of movement, whatever the angle from which it is viewed. Fluid on the outside, original on the inside, it features an absolutely unique and distinctive aesthetic.

A MYSTERIOUS MECHANISM

 

The mechanism is hidden in the base of the frame, which is only 3.75 mm thick. The advantage of this construction is that it clears the stage to enhance the magic of the show being staged.
 

Click, to see the large size. ▶ BIG FOTO

The spectacular design linked to the complexity of the mechanism is marked by its control tower – or central column – which transmits the orders to the tourbillons and hands.

Click, to see the large size. ▶ BIG FOTO

Finally, the mechanical part is ennobled by a powerful and modern engine that endows it with a very high level of performance, making it even more efficient than a single tourbillon.

ASTRONEF is limited to only eight pieces.

--------------------------------
Technical Specifications  

Collection: Mechanical Wonders Unique Edition

Model:  ASTRONEF Edition

Click, to see the large size. ▶ BIG FOTO

  Ref.  M-105.50.60

Movement
Calibre LM105
Manufacture Calibre with flying satellite double tourbillon
Manual winding
Double tourbillon for enhanced accuracy
For enhanced accuracy
Perfect rotation and poising of the rotating elements
Five ball-bearing mechanisms with seven ceramic bearings
One ball-bearing mechanism with nine ceramic bearings
Two barrels
Each supplies its energy to the tourbillon
Ultra-complex mechanism
471 components
Virtuoso assembly
A single movement crafted per month
Frequency: 21,600 vph (3Hz)
Jewels: 56
Power reserve: 48 hours 
Dial
Openwork Dial
Display
Hours and minutes
Case
Material:
Ø 43.5mm - 18k Rose Gold frame
Sapphire container, diameter: 41.6mm
Water resistance: 10 metres
Caseback: Sapphire crystal and back, engraved with individual number and Louis Moinet markings
Crystals: Two anti-reflective sapphire crystals
Patent-pending crown guard
Width between lugs: 24mm
Strap
Alligator strap with folding clasp

SPECTACULAR TOURBILLONS
The tourbillon cages are geometrically shaped. The weight of a cage is only 0.25 grams, in order to guarantee the correct speed through fine poising. 

Click, to see the large size. ▶ BIG FOTO

Each cage rotates in 60 seconds and requires perfect poising, which also relies on an 18K gold counterweight weighing 0.4 grams. 

ORIGINAL TIME-SETTING
Placing the selector on the back of the case enabled a gain in volume and this device plays two distinct roles: time-setting or winding. The crown is no longer pulled out; it is used to set the hands or to wind the mechanism.
Like every detail of ASTRONEF, this function expresses technicality, elegance and exclusivity based on of a unique mechanism stemming from extensive research experience.

A THEMED PRESENTATION BOX

A presentation box is specially made for each ASTRONEF. 

Click, to see the large size. ▶ BIG FOTO

Finely crafted by an artisan, it notably features a straw marquetry motif in various shades and the buyer can choose from several different graphic design alternatives. 

 

Click, to see the large size. ▶ BIG FOTO

ASTRONEF, AN EXCLUSIVE CREATION
 

Only eight ASTRONEF watches will emerge from Ateliers Louis Moinet in Saint-Blaise, a number meaning that only eight owners will jealously safeguard this elite embodiment of contemporary watchmaking technology.

Limited Edition  to only 8 pieces

---------------------------------
Press Release - 2021
----------------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------
 www.facebook.com - Louis Moinet
------------------------------------------------------------------
www.LouisMoinet.com