Over the last 10 years, astronomers have used the Hubble Space Telescope to compile a giant photograph. The program is called eXtreme Deep Field, or XDF and is designed to ascertain how many galaxies are in our universe (which is estimated to be 13.8 billion years old). Data suggests there are approximately 200 Billion, but this could be a massive underestimation. It’s inconceivable to imagine how many Earth-like planets could exist and that scenario has fascinated the entertainment industry for decades. It has also inspired several high-end watchmakers to create many horological art pieces. The latest called the ‘Space Revolution’ from Louis Moinet was recently unveiled at ‘Geneva Day’s’.
I am a huge fan of Louis Moinet and in particular creative director Jean-Marie Schaller’s passion for fine horology. A few weeks ago, I wrote an in-depth review of their marvellous ‘Red Dot’ award-winning “Memoris Titanium”. This timepiece has a bold contemporary façade that is synonymous to the brand. For the ‘Space Revolution,’ Jean-Marie has adopted a different approach and had to devise a new case to realise his vision. The result is an extraordinary dress style watch that is sure to appeal to connoisseurs.
With the advent of digital technology mechanical timepieces to a certain extent have become novelties. In fact, a lot of business leaders and celebrities now sport an Apple watch because it connected to multiple devices. However, there are still appreciators (like me) that are still passionate about the art of horology. It is a very competitive market and that’s why only the fittest can survive. Jean-Marie Schaller is a great example because he’s constantly pushing creative boundaries. Certainly the ‘Space Revolution’ is a beautiful piece of wrist art that is designed to make a bold statement.
Visually the first feature you notice about ‘Space Revolution’ is the battling three-dimensional spacecraft’s. These are fabricated from titanium with a hybrid ceramic colour finish applied by hand and weigh less than 0.5 grams. The upper spacecraft moves in clockwise rotation every five minutes, whilst the lower vessel completes a counter-clockwise revolution every ten minutes. This amazing characteristic is complemented by two flying tourbillon cages that delicately represent space stations. Other features include dome sapphire crystal and a Vantablack dial. To make every one of the eight pieces unique Jean-Marie has incorporated is a central disc with meteorite fragment beneath the open-worked hands.
Beneath the 43.5 mm, 18 Karat rose gold lies a highly sophisticated manual winding movement. The Caliber LM104 comprises 56-jewels and oscillates at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour. Each individual component is fastidiously manufactured in Switzerland by the world finest craftsman. Functionally the ‘Space Revolution’ features hours, minutes, double flying tourbillon satellite and a rotating spaceship animation. The watch also has a power reserve of 46-hours and is water-resistant to a depth of 10-metres. As a perfect finishing touch the ‘Space Revolution’ is presented on a 24mm Alligator strap with matching gold folding clasp.
I am delighted to announce the ‘Space Revolution’ has been nominated for a Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève award. This highly prestigious organisation is to highlight and yearly reward the most remarkable contemporary creations and promote the watchmaking art worldwide.
