Louis Vuitton Escale au Mont Fuji Pocket Watch

Source: style.news.am

Animated Dial Inspired by Japan

As with previous pieces in the collection, the defining feature of the watch is the animated dial. The animation begins with a compass rose positioned in the upper part of the dial. The motif is stylised to resemble the floral monogram associated with Louis Vuitton.

At the centre of the composition is a small fishing boat loaded with the brand’s signature travel trunks. The boat gently moves from side to side as part of the animated mechanism.

Seated in the boat is a figure representing Ebisu, a traditional Japanese deity associated with fishermen, commerce and good fortune. The figure is depicted in meditation while holding a fishing rod and a freshly caught fish. The sculpted details are executed with exceptional precision, including facial expression, clothing folds and accessories such as the fishing net that hangs over the side of the boat.

Another animated element appears in the form of gold cherry blossom branches. Their delicate pink blossoms are stylised to echo the Louis Vuitton monogram and are rendered in shades of red and pink enamel.

Behind the scene, the silhouette of Mount Fuji emerges softly in the background, completing the Japanese inspired landscape.

Decorative Techniques

The dial incorporates a wide range of traditional decorative techniques. These include:

• Grand Feu enamel

• champlevé enamel

• paillonné enamel using fine fragments of gold sealed between enamel layers

• miniature enamel painting

Framing the dial is a ring set with 60 baguette cut coloured sapphires, with a combined weight of 3.74 carats. The gemstones add a vibrant border to the intricate enamel composition.

White Gold Case

The pocket watch is housed in a white gold case measuring 50 mm in diameter and 19 mm thick. The caseband is decorated with elaborate relief engraving. Hidden within the swirling motifs is the Louis Vuitton monogram flower, integrated subtly into the ornamental pattern.

To preserve the visual integrity of the animated scene on the dial, the traditional time display has been relocated to the reverse side of the case.

Louis Vuitton Calibre LFT AU14.03

The watch is powered by the Louis Vuitton calibre LFT AU14.03, a hand wound movement developed within the brand’s La Fabrique du Temps manufacture.

The movement combines several high complications:

• tourbillon

• minute repeater

• time display positioned on the caseback

It delivers an eight day power reserve and consists of 561 components.

Over 1,000 Hours of Work

The creation of a single Escale au Mont Fuji pocket watch requires more than 1,000 hours of work.

The time involved includes:

• more than 500 hours for assembling and finishing the movement

• approximately 300 hours dedicated to enamel decoration

• around 160 hours spent on the case, including 40 hours of engraving

Price

The Louis Vuitton Escale au Mont Fuji Pocket Watch is priced at approximately €1,300,000, reflecting the complexity of both its mechanical construction and decorative craftsmanship.