Introducing Louis Moinet Unveils the Chronomètre d’Observatoire 1806

The watch brands often pride themselves on groundbreaking innovations and technical achievements that leave an indelible mark on the industry. Among these pioneers, Louis Moinet holds a unique place, celebrated for inventing the very first chronograph, operating at an unprecedented frequency of 30 Hertz, a record that still stands today. Now, during the prestigious Geneva Watch Days exhibition, Louis Moinet unveils a remarkable new timepiece inspired by the design and spirit of its historic chronograph from 1816. This modern creation is named the “Chronomètre d'Observatoire 1806”, a title that pays tribute to an earlier landmark moment in the brand’s heritage, a precision chronometer specially crafted for Napoleon in 1806.

The case of the watch is crafted from polished and satin-brushed grade 5 titanium, combining durability with a contemporary lightweight feel. Measuring 40.6 mm in diameter and 15.15 mm in thickness, its Directoire-style semi-bassine silhouette is elegantly accentuated by a double gadroon bezel, reflecting a refined blend of classical design. The watch features a sapphire crystal with double-sided anti-reflective treatment for exceptional clarity, while the sapphire crystal caseback offers a captivating view of the movement within, and its water resistance up to 50 meters.

The dial of the Chronomètre d'Observatoire 1806 showcases a sophisticated interplay of rhodium plating with contrasting satin and bead-blasted finishes. Classic, finely engraved numerals enhance its elegance, while the small seconds subdial at 9 o’clock, set within a bead-blasted background, is beautifully offset by a polished circular frame. The peripheral flange features a circular satin finish, punctuated by twelve blackened nickel cabochons and four blued steel screws. The hour and minute hands are slender, facetted, and openworked in blued steel, with their tips coated in modern SLN luminescent material for enhanced legibility. The blued steel seconds hand is distinguished by its circular openworked counterweight.

The watch is powered by the LM1806, a mechanical self-winding movement that proudly carries the prestigious “Observatory chronometer” certification. This calibre operates at a frequency of 28,800 vph (4Hz) and offers a power reserve of 48 hours. The movement features a circular-grained main plate and an openworked, gilded rotor that can be admired through the sapphire crystal caseback.

It comes with a Titanium bracelet and double folding clasp, and priced at CHF 18,900 approximately equivalent to AED 86,000.

For more information, you can visit Louis Moinet’s official website.