Louis Vuitton has unveiled a truly extraordinary timepiece, the ‘Escale à Asnières,’ a one-of-a-kind pocket watch that celebrates the Maison’s rich history and unparalleled craftsmanship. This exquisite creation is a tribute to the historic Asnières atelier in France, where Louis Vuitton established his iconic trunk-making legacy.
The Asnières atelier holds a special place in the heart of Louis Vuitton. Established in 1859 by the founder himself, this atelier was not only the birthplace of the Maison’s iconic trunks but also served as the Vuitton family’s residence for generations until the late 1980s. Today, the atelier remains a vital center for crafting rare and bespoke pieces, while the historic mansion has been transformed into a museum showcasing the fascinating history of the Vuitton family.
The ‘Escale à Asnières’ pocket watch embodies this rich heritage in a captivating manner. Its exquisite dial features a miniature replica of the legendary Asnières atelier, complete with a 19th-century horse-drawn carriage laden with Louis Vuitton trunks. This captivating scene draws inspiration from a vintage advertisement from 1887 and a family portrait captured around 1888, adding a touch of historical charm to the timepiece.
At the heart of this masterpiece lies a remarkable hand-wound mechanical movement equipped with an on-demand minute repeater and an automaton mechanism that brings seven enchanting animations to life. This groundbreaking in-house movement is a testament to Louis Vuitton’s watchmaking expertise, consisting of an astonishing 480 individual components.
By pressing a trigger located at the 6 o’clock position, a magical story unfolds on the 50mm dial. A miniature coachman raises his arm, while intricately crafted golden horses take graceful steps in sync with the rotating wheels of the carriage. But that’s not all. Behind the coachman, a stack of Louis Vuitton trunks opens with charming elegance, revealing tiny monogram flower motifs that emerge from each trunk, adding a delightful surprise to the spectacle.
Adding to the brilliance of the ‘Escale à Asnières’ is a dazzling sun motif at the 12 o’clock position, adorned with an LV monogram star-cut diamond, a first for a Louis Vuitton timepiece.
This extraordinary pocket watch, a testament to the Maison’s unwavering commitment to excellence, has been meticulously crafted over two years. It encapsulates the pinnacle of watchmaking know-how, seamlessly blending the highest levels of craftsmanship with artistic artistry. The ‘Escale à Asnières’ is a true masterpiece, a singular expression of Louis Vuitton’s limitless creativity and imagination, a joyful and celebratory testament to the spirit of the Maison.
