Louis Vuitton Tambour Taiko Spin Time

In the world of luxury goods, Louis Vuitton stands as a titan, a name synonymous with quality, innovation, and a certain je ne sais quoi that elevates its creations beyond mere products. While the brand's monogrammed trunks and handbags have long captured the hearts of the fashion-conscious, Louis Vuitton's foray into haute horlogerie has been equally impressive, marked by a distinct blend of technical prowess and aesthetic flair. The latest chapter in this horological journey is the Tambour Taiko Spin Time collection, a series of six limited-edition timepieces that reimagine a signature Louis Vuitton complication with a fresh perspective.

The Spin Time, a unique three-dimensional time display, has been a cornerstone of Louis Vuitton's watchmaking since its introduction in 2009. Conceived by the master watchmakers Michel Navas and Enrico Barbasini of La Fabrique du Temps, the Spin Time was inspired by the mechanical flap displays found in airports and train stations. This ingenious complication, featuring rotating cubes that jump to reveal the hours, has become an iconic representation of the brand's innovative spirit. Now, 16 years after its debut, the Spin Time complication enters a new era with the Tambour Taiko Spin Time collection.



The Tambour Taiko Spin Time collection marks a significant departure from previous iterations of the Spin Time. While the patented three-dimensional jumping cubes remain central to the design, these watches are built on an entirely new platform. The collection comprises six models, available in 39.5 mm and 42.5 mm sizes, all housed within the newly designed Tambour Taiko case. This case is a testament to La Fabrique du Temps' mastery of case making, showcasing a masterful interplay of mirrored and satin surfaces, as well as relief and recessed elements. The bezel features polished relief letters spelling out "LOUIS VUITTON" set within a sandblasted channel, while the case flanks are meticulously satin-brushed.

One of the most striking features of the Tambour Taiko case is its complex lugs. Each lug is composed of two elements, machined to a tolerance of 0.1 mm—equivalent to the thickness of a human hair—that nestle together perfectly before being secured to the case middle. The hollowed, sculptural form of the lugs presented a unique finishing challenge, requiring mirror polishing on the outer surfaces and fine frosting on the concave hollow. This intricate process called for a combination of traditional and modern techniques, with the mirrored surfaces polished by hand on a beechwood wheel coated in diamond paste and the hollows frosted by laser.

Unifying the inaugural Tambour Taiko Spin Time models is a distinctive dolphin grey hue that adorns the dials of all six variants. This restrained yet powerful color is instantly recognizable, and its application across the dials is anything but monotonous. Each detail is finished with varied techniques, ranging from sunburst to hawk's eye, resulting in a nuanced, multi-tone appearance that shifts with the light. The cubes themselves are also finished in dolphin grey, except for the cube indicating the current hour, which displays a face in light grey.



This artful use of color and texture is further enhanced in the jeweled Spin Time models, where the grey-blue palette extends to a dial crafted from hawk's eye. This form of grey-blue quartz, prized for its lustrous color and delicate graining, is employed for the first time in Louis Vuitton watchmaking, adding another layer of depth and sophistication to these timepieces.

A significant development in the Tambour Taiko Spin Time collection is the use of in-house movements developed specifically for this series. In a first for the Spin Time complication, all six models are powered by calibers conceived and crafted by La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton. These new movements not only enhance the technical sophistication of the watches but also enrich the visual poetry of the Spin Time complication.

The cubes themselves have been reworked for this collection. While previous generations of the Spin Time utilized cubes with straight edges, the Tambour Taiko Spin Time employs cubes composed of four gently curved faces, giving each cube a cushion-shaped profile. This subtle reprofiling enhances the play of light off the surfaces, with the finishing touch being the mirror-polished nail mounted on the top of each cube.



The redesigned mechanism built on a newly patented system improves on the original Spin Time concept. The upgraded complication operates on the same principle: the instantaneous jump of two cubes simultaneously—when the prior hour disappears, and the current hour appears. However, La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton engineers have introduced a patented Maltese cross gear positioned at the base of each cube. This unique gear, with teeth on its inner edge, is part of a system that allows for convenient setting of the time. The jumping hour display can be adjusted backward and forwards without damage to the movement—a noteworthy achievement for the jumping hours complication, which traditionally can only be set forwards.

The Tambour Taiko Spin Time Air, with its larger 42.5 mm format, presents a "floating" display where each cube appears to levitate within the case, while the movement is suspended at its center. The mechanism is lodged at the heart of the timepiece, allowing the cubes to float like satellites, suspended between the caliber and the case. Inside beats the LFT ST13.01 caliber, with the cubes mounted on longer shafts to support the levitating display.

The jeweled version of the Tambour Taiko Spin Time Air is a dazzling spectacle, set by hand with over 1,000 diamonds arranged in a snow setting on the lugs, cubes, and dial center, along with a hawk's eye chapter ring. This model is a true testament to Louis Vuitton's commitment to both technical excellence and artistic expression.

The Tambour Taiko Spin Time Air Tourbillon represents an unparalleled combination of two major horological complications. This model amalgamates the floating display of the Spin Time Air with the eminently traditional, chronometric mechanism of the flying tourbillon. Accomplishing this fusion was a significant challenge for the movement development workshop at La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton, requiring clever engineering to accommodate both the Spin Time Air and Air Tourbillon mechanisms within the restricted, central volume of the case.



At the center of the dial is a flying tourbillon performing its mesmerizing dance of one revolution per minute. Made of steel and finished entirely by hand on all surfaces, the tourbillon cage takes the form of a Monogram flower—a subtle nod to Louis Vuitton's heritage. To highlight the artistry of decoration in the tourbillon assembly, the steel lower plate of the tourbillon is highly polished, turning it into a mirror to show off the underside of the tourbillon components.

Incorporating a flying tourbillon into the LFT ST05.01 movement called for extensive reengineering of the base caliber. Not only was the going train rearranged to locate the tourbillon on the dial, but the minute hand also had to be situated under and around the tourbillon—a feat of horological engineering that underscores the technical prowess of La Fabrique du Temps.

The Tambour Taiko Spin Time Air Flying Tourbillon, priced at $172,000, is the pinnacle of the collection. This 42.5 mm watch features a central flying tourbillon and a Spin Time Air display, housed in an 18-carat white gold case. Its dolphin grey dial with an opaline and azur finish provides a sophisticated backdrop for the intricate mechanics.

The Tambour Taiko Spin Time Air Antipode, priced at $99,500, introduces a worldtime function to the Spin Time Air complication. This 42.5 mm watch simultaneously displays the time across 24 time zones, with a day-night indicator on each cube showing the time in two cities 12 hours apart.

The Tambour Taiko Spin Time Air, available in two versions, offers a more accessible entry point into the collection. The first, priced at $145,000, features a hawk's eye dial set with diamonds, while the second, priced at $81,500, sports a sunray dial. Both 42.5 mm models are powered by the LFT ST13.01 caliber and feature the signature Spin Time Air display.



The 39.5 mm Tambour Taiko Spin Time models offer a more compact option without sacrificing any of the collection's signature features. The jeweled version, priced at $145,000, features a hawk's eye dial and a case set with baguette-cut diamonds. The non-jeweled version, priced at $72,500, features a sunray dial and a more understated aesthetic.

The dials of the watches are a study in texture and light. The sunray and hawk's eye finishes create a dynamic interplay of light and shadow, while the rotating cubes add a three-dimensional element to the display. The use of diamonds in the jeweled models adds a layer of brilliance, further enhancing the visual appeal of these timepieces.

The open case backs of the 42.5 mm models offer a glimpse into the intricate mechanics of the in-house calibers. The 18-carat pink gold oscillating weights provide a warm contrast to the cool tones of the case and dial, while the meticulously finished components underscore the technical prowess of La Fabrique du Temps.

Louis Vuitton's journey into the world of haute horlogerie has been marked by a commitment to innovation and a willingness to push the boundaries of traditional watchmaking. From the introduction of the Spin Time complication in 2009 to the launch of the Tambour Taiko Spin Time collection, the brand has consistently demonstrated its ability to blend technical excellence with aesthetic flair.



The Tambour Taiko Spin Time collection represents a new chapter in this ongoing story. With its redesigned case, in-house movements, and sophisticated use of materials and colors, this series of six limited-edition timepieces embodies the spirit of Louis Vuitton's watchmaking philosophy. These watches are not merely instruments for telling time; they are wearable works of art that reflect the brand's commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, and a certain je ne sais quoi that sets them apart from the crowd.

The Tambour Taiko Spin Time watches are available as limited editions, with prices ranging from $72,500 for the 39.5 mm non-jeweled model to $172,000 for the Tambour Taiko Spin Time Air Flying Tourbillon. These timepieces are available at select Louis Vuitton boutiques and authorized retailers worldwide, offering discerning collectors the opportunity to own a piece of horological artistry that embodies the spirit of Louis Vuitton. With their unique blend of technical sophistication and aesthetic refinement, the Tambour Taiko Spin Time watches are poised to become coveted additions to any discerning watch collection, a testament to Louis Vuitton's enduring legacy of innovation and style.

Tambour Taiko Spin Time Air Flying Tourbillon

Case: 18K white gold. 42.5 mm diameter. 12.45 mm thick. Open case back. Water-resistant to 50 m.

Movement: Self-winding mechanical movement. Caliber LFT ST05.01. 34.8 mm diameter. 9.42 mm thick. Central flying tourbillon. Hours with Spin Time Air display, minutes. 45-hour power reserve. 40 jewels. 28,800 vibrations/hour – 4Hz frequency. 18K pink gold oscillating weight.

Dial: Dolphin grey dial with an opaline and azur finish. 18K white gold minute hand. 18K white gold indexes.

Strap: Beige calf leather strap. 18K white gold pin buckle.

Price: $172,000.00

Reference Number: W9WG11

Notes: This watch features a unique combination of a Spin Time Air display and a central flying tourbillon. The tourbillon cage is in the shape of a Monogram flower. This is a limited edition timepiece.



Tambour Taiko Spin Time Air Antipode

Case: 18K white gold. 42.5 mm diameter. 12.45 mm thick. Open case back. Water-resistant to 50 m.

Movement: Self-winding mechanical movement. Caliber LFT ST12.01. 34.8 mm diameter. 8 mm thick. Worldtime with Spin Time Air display, minutes. 45-hour power reserve. 36 jewels. 28,800 vibrations/hour – 4Hz frequency. 18K pink gold oscillating weight.

Dial: World map in galvanic growth. 18K white gold minute hand. 18K white gold indexes.

Strap: Beige calf leather strap. 18K white gold pin buckle.

Price: $99,500.00

Reference Number: W9WG21

Notes: This watch features a combination of a worldtime function and a Spin Time Air display. The cubes display the time in two cities 12 hours apart with a day-night indicator. This is a limited edition timepiece.



Tambour Taiko Spin Time Air, Automatic, 42.5mm, White gold, Hawk's eye and diamonds

Case: 18K white gold set with 909 brilliant-cut diamonds (2.92 cts). 42.5 mm diameter. 12.45 mm thick. Open case back. Water-resistant to 50 m.

Movement: Self-winding mechanical movement. Caliber LFT ST13.01. 34.8 mm diameter. 7.7 mm thick. Hours with Spin Time Air display, minutes. 45-hour power reserve. 35 jewels. 28,800 vibrations/hour – 4Hz frequency. 18K pink gold oscillating weight.

Dial: Hawk’s eye dial set with 118 brilliant-cut diamonds (0.26 ct). 18K white gold minute hand. 18K white gold indexes. Cubes set with 96 brilliant-cut diamonds (0.48 ct) and 96 black brilliant-cut diamonds (0.56 ct).

Strap: Beige calf leather strap. 18K white gold pin buckle set with 17 brilliant-cut diamonds (0.36 ct).

Price: $145,000.00

Reference Number: W9WG31

Notes: This watch features a hawk's eye dial and extensive diamond setting. The Spin Time Air display showcases rotating cubes that appear to float. This is a limited edition timepiece.



Tambour Taiko Spin Time Air

Case: 18K white gold. 42.5 mm diameter. 12.45 mm thick. Open case back. Water-resistant to 50 m.

Movement: Self-winding mechanical movement. Caliber LFT ST13.01. 34.8 mm diameter. 7.7 mm thick. Hours with Spin Time Air display, minutes. 45-hour power reserve. 35 jewels. 28,800 vibrations/hour – 4Hz frequency. 18K pink gold oscillating weight.

Dial: Sunray dial. 18K white gold minute hand. 18K white gold indexes.

Strap: Beige calf leather strap. 18K white gold pin buckle.

Price: $81,500.00

Reference Number: W9WG41

Notes: The watch features a unique Spin Time Air display, where the hours are indicated by rotating cubes. The cubes seemingly levitate within the case. This is a limited edition timepiece.



Tambour Taiko Spin Time

Case: 18K white gold set with 68 baguette-cut diamonds (3.39 cts). 39.5 mm diameter. 12.15 mm thick. Closed case back. Water-resistant to 100 m.

Movement: Self-winding mechanical movement. Caliber LFT ST13.01. 29.3 mm diameter. 7.7 mm thick. Hours with Spin Time display, minutes. 45-hour power reserve. 35 jewels. 28,800 vibrations/hour – 4Hz frequency. 18K pink gold oscillating weight.

Dial: Hawk’s eye dial. 18K white gold minute hand. 12 baguette-cut diamonds (0.13 ct) indexes.

Strap: Dolphin grey rubber strap. 18K white gold pin buckle set with 14 baguette-cut diamonds (0.78 ct).

Price: $145,000.00

Reference Number: W9WG52

Notes: This is the smaller, 39.5 mm version of the Tambour Taiko Spin Time. It features a closed case back and a hawk's eye dial. This is a limited edition timepiece.



Tambour Taiko Spin Time

Case: 18K white gold. 39.5 mm diameter. 12.15 mm thick. Closed-case back. Water-resistant to 100 m.

Movement: Self-winding mechanical movement. Caliber LFT ST13.01. 29.3mm diameter. 7.7mm thick. Hours with Spin Time display, minutes. 45-hour power reserve. 35 jewels. 28,800 vibrations/hour – 4Hz frequency. 18K pink gold oscillating weight.

Dial: Sunray dial. 18K white gold minute hand. 18K white gold indexes.

Strap: Dolphin grey rubber strap. 18K white gold pin buckle.

Price: $72,500.00

Reference Number: W9WG62

Notes: This is the smaller, 39.5 mm version of the Tambour Taiko Spin Time. It features a closed case back and a sunray dial. This is a limited edition timepiece.