In spring 2024, Louis Vuitton introduced the latest chapter in its Escale collection, showcasing the brand's dedication to artisanal craftsmanship. The Escale Cabinet of Wonders, a series of métiers d’art timepieces, takes inspiration from the collections of Gaston-Louis Vuitton, the third-generation patriarch of the Maison's founding family.

Celebrating a Decade of Escale

To mark the 10th anniversary of the Escale collection, Louis Vuitton revealed a new range of timepieces that focus on the fundamental elements of timekeeping—hours, minutes, and seconds. This latest addition features highly textured and tactile surfaces, a refined case design, and sophisticated finishes, while the movement remains rooted in traditional Swiss horlogerie.

Introducing Four New Models

The new Escale collection includes four time-only watches, bringing added dimension to the line's previously complex pieces. Two models come in rose gold with textured dials, suitable for everyday wear. The other two are platinum, adorned with ornamental and precious stones for an elevated look. These timepieces integrate Louis Vuitton's heritage and values into the fine watchmaking collection.

Craftsmanship and Design

Louis Vuitton's expertise in trunkmaking is a cornerstone of the new Escale designs. The watch lugs echo the iconic trunks' angled form and riveted exterior. The dial, redesigned to strengthen the connection with the Maison's famous creations, features angled and riveted markers in polished gold. These markers, hand-applied at each quarter, hold together the central dial and outer minuterie, which is punctuated with gold studs.

Precision and Performance

The new Escale models are equipped with the chronometer-certified cal. LFT023, ensuring precise timekeeping. This movement offers a 50-hour power reserve, thanks to energy-efficient solutions like the titanium seconds hand. Special tools were developed to curve the seconds hand perfectly, which is then treated with a PVD color process to match the gold hour and minute hands.

Innovative Dial Textures

The rose-gold models feature a new dial texture inspired by the Louis Vuitton Monogram canvas. Custom dial stamps were created to convey the canvas's suppleness and tactility on a metal dial. The play of light across the faceted hour indexes and the groove dividing the central dial and the minuterie guides the eye over the watch's intricate textures and finishes.

Heritage and Craftsmanship

Each Escale timepiece is engraved with a serial number on a slim cartouche in contrasting gold, riveted to the transparent caseback. This detail alludes to the engraved serial number plates on Louis Vuitton trunks, creating a sensory link between the wearer and the brand's artisanal craftsmanship heritage.

A Celebration of Travel

The Escale collection embodies the art of travel, a core philosophy of Louis Vuitton. Every aspect of the redesigned Escale, from the case finishes to the curve of the sapphire crystal, is infused with intention. The octagonal crown, topped with a dome and fluted on alternating sides, facilitates winding and setting, while the contrasting finishes of the components give the watch a deliberate yet organic grace.

Technical Specifications

The new Escale models include the following:

Rose Gold with Silvery Dial

• 18-carat rose gold case
• Silvery stamped center dial
• Caliber LFT023 self-winding mechanical movement
• VVT camel calf leather strap

Platinum with Meteorite Dial

• Platinum case
• Meteorite center dial
• Caliber LFT023 self-winding mechanical movement
• Black calf leather strap

Rose Gold with Blue Dial

• 18-carat rose gold case
• Blue stamped center dial
• Caliber LFT023 self-winding mechanical movement
• Blue calf leather strap

Platinum Set with Baguette-cut Diamonds

• Platinum case with baguette-cut diamonds
• Onyx center dial
• Caliber LFT023 self-winding mechanical movement
• Black calf leather strap

Louis Vuitton's Legacy

Since its founding in 1854, Louis Vuitton has combined innovation with style, always aiming for the finest quality. The brand's commitment to fine craftsmanship is evident in its diverse range of products, including luggage, bags, accessories, ready-to-wear, shoes, watches, jewelry, and fragrances. This legacy continues with the new Escale collection, celebrating the art of travel and the Maison's rich heritage.