Several years ago I had the privilege of attending the world watch show in Basel. In 2015 (pre-Covid) Baselworld was the world’s largest watch fair. Anyone who was anyone in the industry exhibited at the show. At one end of the scale, you had corporate groups like Louis Vuitton, Rolex and Swatch who had spent millions on temporary boutiques. Then in the smaller halls, independents only had a desk. Somewhere in the middle was luxury brand Louis Moinet, who occupied a glass meeting-style room. It was there I met the owner and Creative Director Jean-Marie Schaller for the first time. He was exceptionally gracious and took time from his hectic schedule to show me some of their exquisite timepieces. Certainly, in the metal, they were much better than I ever envisioned. Fast forwarding 9 years Louis Moinet has just released a remarkable watch called the ‘STARMAN’.
When establishing a luxury watch brand a lot of things need to be taken into consideration. For example price point, genre (style) and materials. Another important factor is the name and an interesting back story. From the outset, Jean-Marie Schaller had an unambiguous directive to create modern luxury dress-style watches. As part of the narrative, he drew inspiration from a legendary eighteenth-century French horologist, sculptor, painter and inventor of the chronograph called Louis Moinet. Judging by the brand's enduring commercial and creative success I feel they have honoured his legacy successfully. A wonderful example is the brand’s latest release called the ‘STARMAN’.
On the first appearance, the ‘STARMAN’ is an absolutely beautiful looking watch. For this timepiece, Louis Moinet has literally reached for the stars. What makes this watch so extraordinary is the sensational two-tone dial that has been meticulously crafted from Gibeon and Jbilet Winselwan meteorite fragments. One of the main characteristics of this material is the presence of amino acids and molecules that are considered the building blocks of life itself. Certainly, this imposing detail perfectly frames the majestic tourbillon, which is displayed via a large aperture located at 6 o’clock. Other features include a hand-painted stars-studded sapphire disc with luminescent material and skeletonized faceted hour-minute hands. Overall the composition is well conceived and perfectly executed.
Beneath the opulent 47.4mm 18 karat gold (white or red) is a sensational Swiss-made double barrel hand winding movement. The Caliber LM139 comprises 26 jewels and oscillates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour. This mechanical marvel is visibly showcased through the sapphire crystal exhibition case back. Functionally the ‘STARMAN’ features hours, minutes and flying tourbillon complication. The watch also has a power reserve of 40 hours and is water resistant to a depth of 30 meters.
The ‘STARMAN’ is presented on a blue alligator strap with a complimentary 18-karat gold folding clasp buckle. This watch is limited to 12 pieces of each model and priced at CHF 160’000. For more information follow this link: https://louismoinet.com/watches/starman-lm-139-70-20/?ln=71413
