Showing posts with label Louis Vuitton. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Louis Vuitton. Show all posts

Saturday, July 5, 2025

Louis Vuitton – TAMBOUR Taiko Galactique Repeater - Unique piece

Louis VuittonTAMBOUR Taiko Galactique Minute Repeater 46.7mm White Gold - Unique piece 2025

After celebrating Europe and its vanities, China and the Bian-Lan Opera, Japan and Bushido, Louis Vuitton embarks on a new journey by propelling High Watchmaking into space. For this interstellar odyssey, Louis Vuitton has created an exceptional watch, the Tambour Taiko Galactique a minute repeater with cathedral gongs and automata that combine the virtuosity of a unique mechanical caliber with the perfect mastery of several artistic crafts. Evolving in the space of audacity.

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Going beyond earthly borders. Pushing the limits of adventure. Discovering new horizons. As early as 2009, Louis Vuitton celebrated the fortieth anniversary of the first moon landing: by bringing together three astronauts on one of the posters of the famous “A journey beyond“ campaign. In 2021, to mark the two-hundredth anniversary of the birth of Monsieur Louis Vuitton, the House presented an extraordinary Tambour Jacquemart Minute Repeater with cathedral gongs, whose dial paid tribute to the theme of space odysseys.

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In 2025, the Tambour Taiko Galactique explores the universe of the Moon, offering an entirely new perspective over the Earth and Sun that transports complication watches into a new dimension. “The Tambour Galactique embodies a resolutely modern journey, where the DNA of Louis Vuitton – to constantly push the limits – reaches its pinnacle. 

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This quest for excellence is evident both in the design and development of the watch movement and in the aesthetic approach to artisanal know-how, which we wish to both perpetuate and project into the future,“ explains Matthieu Hegi, Artistic Director of La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton.

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Powered by a minute repeater movement whose cathedral gong chimes sound the hours, quarter hours, and minutes on demand, the Tambour Taiko Galactique is characterized by the sophistication of its dial’s decoration. The engraving and enameling of which alone required more than 300 hours of work.

A caliber of great complexity

Entirely designed and developed at La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton, the LFT AU14.02 manual-winding mechanical caliber was specifically created to power the Tambour Taiko Galactique. 220 hours of work were required to assemble this 459-component movement, which boasts a 100-hour power reserve. 

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Several demonstrations of horological prowess are enshrined in this high-complication watch. In addition to the minute repeater being associated with cathedral gongs, it follows the seven animations of the automaton. Louis Vuitton harnessed technical expertise to serve aesthetics and poetry, resulting in no fewer than nine elements that smoothly come alive on the dial.

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When pushing the slide piece on the target, the minute repeater chimes out the hour and the dial springs to life, offering an unprecedented and fascinating visual spectacle.

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To the sound of a powerful and melodious cathedral chime, the astronaut moves through space, ready to plant his flag on the lunar ground. At the same time, the satellite’s antenna, solar panels, and thruster come to life, shooting stars oscillate, and the Sun begins its rotation, all at different speeds of rotation. 

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Animating the astronaut in space realistically was the biggest challenge of the Tambour Taiko Galactique“, explains Michel Navas, Master Watchmaker at La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton. “His right arm slowly waving the LV flag, while his left arm provides a counterweight, creates a striking weightless effect. This lack of a point of support, while contributing to the realism of the scene, has severely tested the ingenuity of our teams of engineers and watchmakers.

Excellence at its peak

Barely out of his spacecraft, the astronaut of the Tambour Taiko Galactique is preparing to explore the Moon. In his right hand, he holds a saffron-coloured flag with the House’s logo, while a satellite is stationed to his left. Illuminated by the Sun’s rays, the beauty of the Earth shines brightly, offering a magnificent representation of the blue planet.

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With unparalleled precision, the artisans have transcribed in 3D the striking harmony of this galactic scene, calling upon several skills. “We have deployed a range of artistic crafts on this timepiece, including grand feu enamel, paillonné enamel, miniature enamel, sculpture and engraving.
The stars and the flag were hand-engraved, while the astronaut and the satellite were specially sculpted by our Master Engraver to create an impression of volume. The extreme finesse of the elements that animate the dial is remarkable. In order to convey weightlessness and give depth to the scene, we played with colors, with a sky that gradually darkens and planets of different sizes arranged asymmetrically
,“
explains Matthieu Hegi.

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Four enamel techniques were implemented to bring the dial of the Tambour Taiko Galactique to life. The sumptuous colors of the Earth, composed of orange, green, white, and blue, were obtained thanks to several layers of miniature enamel.

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In fact, no less than seven colors were necessary to create this terrestrial motif. Beyond the level of detail and the colors used to best represent the planet, the enameler’s work consisted of bringing the clouds to life, playing between blur and sharpness to give a striking aspect of reality. The beauty and depth of the blue used also contribute to this effect.

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Finally, to further accentuate the illusion, the planet seems to fade delicately into the limbo of the universe. While some stars sparkle thanks to the delicate technique of paillonné where a gold paillon is applied to the dial and then covered with enamel – the opalescent enamel perfectly transcribes the vaporous halo of the moon’s surface and the solar flare, thus reproducing the sun’s rays illuminating the dial. The sun, meanwhile, comes to life thanks to the paillonné technique: yellow gold paillons are applied between different layers of transparent enamel, allowing the brilliance of the gold to stand out. Orange and red enamels are then added to reflect the fiery side of the star. 

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Made with the champlevé technique, the astronaut seems to float weightlessly on the moon. The lunar surface, with its craters reproduced with striking meticulousness, is obtained thanks to the grisaille technique. This technique is based on a black base on which different layers of white enamel are applied, creating a subtle chiaroscuro effect. The red Monogram flowers that adorn the astronaut’s suit are hand-painted in miniature. Their small size and the need to apply three layers of enamel demonstrate extreme precision of execution. Ultimately, eight layers give this unique decor a glossy finish.

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Through its perfect rendering of the Earth’s nuances, the Sun’s rays, and the Moon’s textured, chiaroscuro surface, Louis Vuitton brilliantly captures the emotional significance of this journey through space.

Watchmaking prowess in the service of innovation

Virtuosity in the most infinitesimal detail, mastery of nuance in the gradation of tones, the spectacular dial of the Tambour Taiko Galactique is housed in a new titanium and white gold case with a design as futuristic as it is innovative.

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Entirely manufactured by the Fabrique des Boîtes Louis Vuitton, this unique case is distinguished by the shape of its integrated lugs, which are hollowed out – a technical feat highlighted by its mirror-polish, sandblasted double finish.

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A bold aesthetic choice: the crown of this watch is positioned at 12 o’clock, contributing to the originality of its design. Like a precious signature, the letters “Louis Vuitton“ are polished and affixed in relief on the bezel of the watch. The rubber strap, embossed with interlocking LV motifs, was specially developed to integrate perfectly with the crown positioned at noon. Another element of sophistication: the slide piece that activates the minute repeater is set with a gradient of blue sapphires and two topazes. Finally, the sapphire case back invites you to admire the complexity and aesthetics of the watch mechanism.

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With the Tambour Taiko Galactique, Louis Vuitton offers a unique horological spectacle that not only retraces a major episode of space exploration from Earth to the Moon, but also invents a new form of travel: that of ultimate excellence, the kind that rubs shoulders with the stars.

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TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Model: Louis Vuitton Tambour Taiko Galactique 

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Ref. W9TI12

MOVEMENT     
    LFT AU14.02 Calibre: mechanical movement with manual winding developed and assembled by La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton
    Automata mechanism featuring 7animations, minute repeater, hours, minutes
    459 components
    100 hours of power reserve
    21,600 oscillations per hour
    50 jewels
CASE
    Crown and lugs in 18K white gold
    Slide-piece in18K white gold set with 6 baguette-cut sapphires and 2 baguette-cut topaz
    46.7 mm diameter
    14.6 mm thickness
    Anti-reflection sapphire crystal
    Water-resistant to 30 m
DIAL     
    Handcrafted enamel dial using the paillonné, cloisonné and miniature enamel techniques
    Handcrafted engravings (astronaut, satellite and flag)
    Dial set with two diamonds
STRAP   
    Blue rubber strap
    Buckle: 18K white gold double folding buckle

💎Gemsetting
    6 baguette-cut sapphires and 2 baguette-cut topaz for ~ 0.56 carat
    2 round diamonds for ~ 0,02 carat

  🔰Edition: Unique piece

 🔴 Price:  €1 million before taxes💰

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Press releases - 2025
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Monday, March 24, 2025

Louis Vuitton x Kari Voutilainen LVKV-02 GMR 6 Edition

Louis Vuitton x Kari Voutilainen Collaboration LVKV-02 GMR 6 Tantalum Edition - 2025

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Louis Vuitton is delighted to announce the second creation in its ongoing journey of collaborations with renowned independent watchmakers – a spectacular, travel-inspired piece designed and made in partnership with Master Watchmaker Kari Voutilainen.

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Finnish-born Kari Voutilainen’s remarkable, handcrafted timepieces have earned him a significant reputation among the collecting community for the exceptional level of craftsmanship that goes into each and every one of his rare watches.

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By a fortunate coincidence, both Louis Vuitton and the Voutilainen workshop began their journeys to horological recognition in 2002 Louis Vuitton with the launch of the ground-breaking Tambour watch, and the Voutilainen workshop with the establishment of his independent 

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Atelier in Saint-Sulpice, Switzerland. The new LVKV-02 GMR 6 represents a unique and special blend of the Voutilainen workshop’s talents and those of the master craftspeople at La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton.

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With Kari Voutilainen’s participation in the Louis Vuitton Watch Prize for Independent Creatives as a member of the committee of experts, the proceeds of this exclusive collaboration will also contribute to supporting independent watchmaking and the Prize initiative itself – the cause that originally inspired the ’Louis cruises with….’ series.

A timepiece rooted in Louis Vuitton’s travel legacy

Based on the latest Escale design revealed in 2024, the 40.5mm LVKV-02 GMR 6 features a case crafted from pure tantalum in a process overseen by La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton, with the bezel, back, lugs, crown, and strap buckle all adorned in platinum.

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The watch’s name, “Escale,“ meaning “stopover“ in English, reflects Louis Vuitton’s rich heritage in the art of travel and unparalleled savoir-faire in trunkmaking. The lugs make continuous allusion to the Maison’s iconic trunks, resembling the angled forms and riveted exterior of the brass brackets and corners that reinforce Louis Vuitton creations.

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The Escale case was the natural choice for the traveloriented LVKV-02 GMR 6, especially since the model has catered to those with a passion for wanderlust ever since its original launch in 2014. The very first Escale, a ’World Time’ watch, featured a dial marked with 24 city locations that was decorated with miniature hand-painted versions of the colorful ’blazons,’ historically used to identify the owners of Louis Vuitton’s iconic trunks.

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The tantalum and platinum case of the LVKV-02 GMR 6 boasts beautiful proportions, making it not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing.

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The lug polishing and satin finishing operations are performed entirely by hand, reflecting the highest craftsmanship that is the hallmark of Louis Vuitton. The angles are shaped through fine cabronnage, followed by polishing and sharpening the platinum for an impeccable finish.

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It takes about an hour to process each lug, ensuring that every detail meets the highest standards of quality. The most demanding stage in the manufacture of this case is satin-finishing the tantalum case side. This is carried out entirely by hand, requiring almost four hours of work per piece. 

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This process enhances the natural radiance of tantalum, creating a striking contrast with the polished platinum components. The combination of matte and highly polished finishes further accentuates the sophisticated aesthetics of the watch.

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This perfect balance ensures that the watch is both a practical travel companion and a piece of art. The case back features the engraving “Louis cruises with Kari,“ adding a unique touch to this exceptional timepiece. This engraving, which requires approximately 12 hours of meticulous work, symbolises the collaborative spirit and shared values of excellence, creativity, and craftsmanship between Louis Vuitton and Kari Voutilainen.

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In every detail, from the choice of materials to the intricate finishing touches, the LVKV-02 GMR 6 stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Louis Vuitton and Kari Voutilainen’s exceptional artistry. This timepiece is not only a celebration of their shared heritage, but also a true symbol of innovation and craftsmanship.

An exceptional dial: seamlessly blending the talents of both maisons

The dial of the LVKV-02 GMR 6 is a testament to the extraordinary craftsmanship of this artistic collaboration. Every element of the gold dial, which is manufactured in four parts, has been meticulously designed and crafted to reflect the unique heritage and expertise of both Maisons.

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The diamond-polished hour circle is a masterpiece of miniature painting, hand-decorated by Maryna Bossy, a skilled artisan at La Fabrique des Arts – the Métiers d’Art workshop at La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton. This intricate work involves the use of 28 different colours and requires 32 hours of meticulous painting as well as a total of eight hours of firing.

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The center of the gold dial is exquisitely decorated in Voutilainen’s workshop with exceptional hand guilloché, an engraving technique consisting of removing material and creating an intricate pattern of curved or straight lines.

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This process, a nod to Louis Vuitton’s famous “Damier“ motif, is entirely carried out using vintage machinery that dates back to the 18th century. This particularly demanding art form requires extreme dexterity, precision, passion, and an innate sense of aesthetics by fascinating and inspiring artisans who grace this watch with its timeless elegance.

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The hour circle beneath the white gold Roman numerals has been adorned with a magnificent miniature painting and references the design of ancient stained-glass windows. This was executed by specialists at La Fabrique Des Arts Louis Vuitton. The Voutilainen workshop was responsible for the spectacular sun and moon imagery that serves as a day and night indicator on the second time zone subdial.

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Many hours were spent to first hand-engrave and then meticulously decorate the sun and mooninspired day/night disc crafted in the iconic Louis Vuitton colours of saffron and blue. The enamel part on the day/night disc posed a significant challenge, as achieving the delicate gradient required an artist’s touch and an unwavering dedication to perfection. Upon close inspection, the pattern reveals the concealed shapes of Louis Vuitton’s famed Monogram flower.

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Each element reminds us of the significance of the GMT function in relation to Louis Vuitton’s deep-rooted association with travel. The main dial is also distinctive in featuring a handset made by the Voutilainen workshop, and in the way the famous ’LV’ logo has been combined with the ’Voutilainen’ name, the second of the intertwined initials also serving as the first letter of ’Voutilainen’.

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The dial of the LVKV-02 GMR 6 is not just a functional element – it is a canvas that showcases the exceptional talents of both Louis Vuitton and the Voutilainen workshop. It embodies the perfect fusion of artistic prowess and technical precision, making it a true masterpiece in the world of horology.

A caliber crafted with horological expertise for world explorers

The Voutilainen workshop’s renowned dedication to detail and relentless pursuit of perfection are vividly displayed in the exceptional handmade decoration of each movement used in the five individually-numbered examples of the LVKV-02 GMR 6.

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The use of ’GMR 6’ in the watch’s name is a tribute to the second time zone function, a nod to Louis Vuitton’s historic legacy as a trunk maker for bold travelers. The ’R’ signifies the power reserve display, while the ’6’ denotes the location of the second time zone subdial. 

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The GMT disc rotates in 24 hours and is designed to be set to ’home’ time, allowing the central hour hand to be easily adjusted to local time in the country being visited with a simple press of the crown. This thoughtful design ensures that the watch is a perfect ally for global exploration.

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In addition, the watch features a retrograde power reserve display at 12 o’clock. The open case back provides an unhindered view of the GMR 6 movement, allowing admirers to appreciate the intricate craftsmanship and beauty of the mechanism within.

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The mechanism, whose main plate and bridges are made from German silver, was designed, built, fabricated, finished, and assembled within the Voutilainen workshop. Comprising 254 components, the LVOUTILAINEN movement features a very large balance wheel crafted in-house, allowing for perfect regulation of the watch within strict tolerances.

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To equip such a timepiece, a rare and unique balance-spring system has been employed. The exterior of the spring has a typical Phillips overcoil, while the internal curve utilizes the little-known Grossmann curve, further enhancing accuracy.

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What makes this movement particularly remarkable is its two escapement wheels, which provide a direct impulse to the balance through the jewels. This innovative construction improves efficiency by requiring less energy than the Swiss lever escapement and offers notable benefits for everyday use, such as longevity, stability, and a longer power reserve.

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The movement is further enhanced with traditional finishes such as artisanal “Côtes de Genève“ and perlage, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship that both Louis Vuitton and the Voutilainen workshop are celebrated for. These finishing touches not only highlight the technical prowess of the watchmakers but also add a layer of elegance and sophistication to the timepiece.

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Each movement is a unique work of art, adorned with a kaleidoscopic pattern of multi-colored miniature painting on the mainspring barrel cover, visible through the open case back. This intricate decoration was meticulously hand-applied at La Fabrique des Arts Louis Vuitton by the talented Maryna Bossy.

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The ratchet applique, crafted from white gold, epitomizes the exceptional craftsmanship realized at La Fabrique des Arts Louis Vuitton. It took approximately 16 hours of meticulously painting the ratchet with 27 different colours. This detailed process involves 27 distinct operations, including around five kiln sessions and eight hours of firing to achieve the stunning final result.

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In every detail, from the intricate hand-painted decorations to the masterful mechanical engineering, the LVKV-02 GMR 6 embodies the perfect fusion of horological expertise and the spirit of global adventure. 

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This caliber is not just a testament to technical excellence but a celebration of the art of watchmaking, designed for those who appreciate the beauty and precision of a truly exceptional timepiece.

A trunk masterfully crafted in the heart of Louis Vuitton’s atelier

Each watch will be delivered in a bespoke Louis Vuitton travel trunk, meticulously crafted using traditional methods at the historic Louis Vuitton workshops in Asnières. 

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It is here, in the enchanting setting of the trunk-making workshops, where expertise and craftsmanship are passed down through generations. The Maison in Asnières is more than just a workshop; it is the beating heart of Louis Vuitton, a place where tradition and innovation converge to create exceptional trunks.

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The creation of each LVKV-02 GMR 6 trunk is a journey of craftsmanship and artistry. Once the structure is completed with the precision and expertise that only Louis Vuitton can provide, the trunk is handed over to a small team of artisans. 

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These skilled craftsmen then hand-paint the trunk with a design that mirrors the intricate decoration and architecture of the watch dial, ensuring a harmonious and breathtaking presentation. The trunk also features the signature “Louis cruises with Kari,“ reinforcing the uniqueness of this collaboration.

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To further enhance its exclusivity, each trunk is adorned with the edition number corresponding to one of the five available LVKV-02 GMR 6 watches, making each set uniquely allocated. This exquisite trunk, a masterpiece in its own right, not only cradles the timepiece but also serves as a symbol of the timeless elegance and unparalleled craftsmanship that define Louis Vuitton and the Voutilainen workshop.

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In this unique collaboration, Louis Vuitton and Kari Voutilainen have redefined the art of horology. The LVKV-02 GMR 6 is not merely a watch; it is a symbol of unparalleled craftsmanship, innovation, and the timeless spirit of travel. Each element, from the meticulously crafted dial to the bespoke travel trunk, tells a story of dedication, artistry, and a shared passion for excellence.

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This timepiece stands as a singular celebration of the rich heritage and exceptional artistry of both Louis Vuitton and Kari Voutilainen, designed for those who seek the extraordinary in every moment of their journey. This exclusive creation marks a special moment in the history of both Maisons, embodying the pinnacle of watchmaking and the spirit of adventure. 

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TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Categories: Collaboration Collection 

Model:  Louis Vuitton x Kari Voutilainen LVKV-02 GMR 6 Edition

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 Reference: LVKV-02 GMR 6 

 Case
    Escale case: 52 components
    Diameter: 40.5 mm
    Thickness: 12.54 mm
    Between lugs: 20 mm
    Water resistance: 3 ATM (30 m) – the watch is splash-resistant but should not be immersed
Dial
    Hand-guilloché gold dial
    Diamond-hour circle in miniature painting by La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton
    Second time zone disc in gold (24-hour format) with day/night indication engraved and enameled by hand
    Gold and blued-steel hands
Movement
    Manual-winding mechanical movement (Kari Voutilainen GMR 6 calibre) manufactured, finished and assembled in the Voutilainen workshop. Two direct-impulse escapement wheels in blued steel

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    Functions: hours, minutes, seconds, power reserve indicator, second time zone at 6 o’clock with day/night indication
    254 components
    Nickel silver plate and bridges
    Gold wheels
    White gold barrel cover with miniature painting
    32 jewels
    Diameter: 30 mm
    Thickness: 6 mm
    Frequency: 18,000 vibrations per hour, balance wheel equipped with pink gold adjustment weights
    Balance spring with Phillips terminal curve and Grossmann inner curve
    65-hours of power reserve
Two straps
    Fabric strap: grey fabric with edging on top, brown leather lining
    Exo strap: anthracite alligator with edging on top, black leather lining
Buckle
    Platinum pin buckle

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Trunk
    High watchmaking trunk in Monogram Eclipse canvas, hand-painted with a design reflecting the watch dial

🔰Edition - ✅of Only ❱❱❱ 5 pieces

 🔴 Price: 550 000 EUR / USD 555.000 $ 💰

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Press Release - 2025
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Kari Voutilainen
Voutilainen Horlogerie d’Art
Comblémine 2
2112 Môtiers | Switzerland
Tél +41 32 861 4832
Fax +41 32 861 4833
voutilainen@voutilainen.ch
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