Recently I have communicated with many professionals in the watch industry and the current prognosis isn’t great. With cases of COVID-19 rising to over 3 million in the United States this region has been hit the hardest. A few days ago I spoke to the Chief designer of a very well known fashion brand. He’s been on lockdown for several months and working from home. Initially, he was very frustrated but now is using the time productively to develop exciting new ideas. More importantly, he has been able to spend precious time with his family. This illustrates that in times of adversity people can turn a negative into a positive. Another example of this can be found in Jean-Marie Schaller who has also been proactive in this unsettling period. In fact, his latest masterpiece called the “Memoris Titanium” has just won a prestigious Red Dot Award.
In these unsettling times, it is very pleasing to hear of positive stories in the world of horology. Jean-Marie Schaller is very highly respected in the watch industry for many reasons. As well as being a creative powerhouse he’s also regarded as a true gentleman. Certainly, he is an inspiration to many designers and his exquisite timepieces make great editorial copy. One of his latest watches is a limited edition (28-pieces) called the “Memoris Titanium”. Without a doubt, it is an exciting inclusion to this popular series that will definitely appeal to discerning collectors. For a watch of this calibre, it also comes with a competitive price tag of 26,000CHF (approximately $27,604).
Aesthetically the “Memoris Titanium” has a strong visual identity that resonated with the Red Dot Award panel. In my opinion, the Red Dot is the benchmark for progressive design. Previous recipients have included Apple for their game-changing smartwatch and MB&F’s futuristic HM6 Space Pirate. I visited the museum, which is located in Essen about a decade ago. That is why I can appreciate the relevance of this accolade and am delighted for Jean-Marie Schaller.
What makes the “Memoris Titanium” truly remarkable is the flawless open-worked dial that is available in blue and orange (my personal favourite). This characteristic perfectly showcases elements of the bespoke Swiss-made automatic 34-jewel movement. The Caliber LM79 comprises 302 components that are meticulously finished to the highest possible standard. Other features include a sublime blue lacquered sub-dial with “Gouttes de Rosée”® dew-drop style hour/minute hands and two transparent chronograph counters. This entire splendour is encapsulated in a sophisticated 52-part Grade 5 titanium case measuring 46mm x 15.75mm.
As a perfect finale, the “Memoris Titanium” is presented on a hand-stitched navy blue alligator leather strap with complimentary titanium triple folding buckle. For more information about Louis Moinet follow this link
