An Astonishing Collaboration Between Luxury and Innovation
Montecito, California, served as the stage for an unexpected but breathtaking collaboration between Louis Vuitton Watches, led by Jean Arnault, and Rexhep Rexhepi’s Akrivia. These two esteemed brands have joined forces to unveil a watch that transcends convention and showcases a fusion of styles and watchmaking prowess – the LVRR-01 Chronographe à Sonnerie. This timepiece marks a significant step toward Arnault’s vision of revitalizing LV watchmaking and combines the renowned LV emblem with the name of one of the world’s most prominent independent watchmakers.
Rexhep Rexhepi, known for horological wonders like the Chronomètre Contemporaine and bold Akrivia designs, brings modernity and precision to this collaboration. His workshop in Geneva is a testament to the intricacies of modern watchmaking, combining innovation with a profound respect for horological heritage. Jean-Pierre Hagmann, the renowned casemaker, plays a pivotal role in crafting cases for Rexhepi’s creations, underscoring their commitment to detail and precision.
On the other side, Jean Arnault leads Louis Vuitton Watches and Le Fabrique du Temps, where the brand’s watches are meticulously crafted. With the recent launch of the revamped Tambour, he set the stage for the LVRR-01’s debut. The Tambour now stands as the centerpiece of LV’s collection, hinting at the exciting future that Arnault envisions.
The LVRR-01 Chronographe à Sonnerie is not just a name – it’s a complex masterpiece where every detail matters.
At its core, this watch is a double-faced chronograph with a chiming complication, driven by a completely new tourbillon movement developed from scratch by Rexhep Rexhepi. It resides in a redesigned Louis Vuitton Tambour case crafted by Jean-Pierre Hagmann. The translucent dial on the front features six gold cubes filled with translucent fired enamel, reminiscent of stained glass craftsmanship known as plique-à-jour. This is also a subtle nod to the Louis Vuitton Spin Time jumping-hours display. The tourbillon completes its rotation every five minutes, while the sonnerie mechanism chimes for each minute of elapsed time when the chronograph function is engaged. This integration of a sonnerie mechanism within a chronograph for elapsed time is a groundbreaking achievement in wristwatch history.
Contrasting with the contemporary front side, the watch’s reverse boasts a white grand feu enamel dial, evoking the traditional Louis Vuitton aesthetic and history. The unique collaboration is evident in the “v” of Akrivia, which takes the form of the iconic LV logo – a groundbreaking fusion of two iconic symbols.
The bespoke movement inside the LVRR-01 required innovative solutions to maximize the exhibition dial’s impact. The inverted design showcases the chronograph and chiming mechanisms on the front side, making the movement architecture visible. Every movement component is meticulously finished with anglage and black polishing, exemplifying precision.
The chronograph functions (start, stop, and reset) are controlled by a pusher at two o’clock. When the chronograph function is initiated, the sonnerie mechanism chimes each elapsed minute on a running basis. This feat demands substantial energy from a watchmaking perspective and offers a truly unique experience.
Only ten of these extraordinary timepieces will be produced, making it a highly exclusive release. Each LVRR-01 Chronographe à Sonnerie carries an approximate price tag of CHF 450,000. Lucky owners will receive a hand-painted Louis Vuitton trunk box adorned with a motif inspired by the chronograph scales on the enamel dial. Inside the trunk, the signatures of Rexhep Rexhepi, Jean-Pierre Hagmann, and enameler Nicolas Doublel add a personal touch.
This collaboration between Rexhep Rexhepi and Louis Vuitton goes beyond a horological masterpiece; it is a meeting of innovative minds. The proceeds from this release contribute to the Louis Vuitton Watch Prize, supporting future generations of watchmakers. This remarkable timepiece, born from this unique partnership, signifies innovation, artistry, and the harmonious fusion of two esteemed brands.
As this collaboration marks the end of Akrivia’s name on future watches, it signifies a significant moment in Rexhep Rexhepi’s journey. Meanwhile, Louis Vuitton’s horological ambitions continue to flourish with plans for five more collaborations in the pipeline.
The LVRR-01 Chronographe à Sonnerie serves as a testament to the endless possibilities when luxury and innovation converge, leaving horological enthusiasts eagerly awaiting future developments from this dynamic partnership.
