From the humble beginnings in the Franches Montagnes,
Maurice Lacroix has cultivated a reputation for creating watches that encapsulate a distinct blend of tradition and modernity. The journey from the brand's inception in 1975 to the present day has been marked by a steadfast dedication to quality and design, a journey that has culminated in the creation of the Aikon series. The Aikon's lineage can be traced back to the iconic Calypso of the '90s, a series that captivated watch enthusiasts with its distinctive design and robust functionality.
The Aikon Automatic 42mm Gunmetal PVD Limited Edition is the latest chapter in this illustrious narrative, offering a new twist on the Aikon's bold, urban styling. This timepiece is more than just a device for keeping time; it is a statement piece that speaks to the wearer's appreciation for the intricacies of Swiss horology and the avant-garde in watch design. Limited to a mere 888 pieces, this watch is as exclusive as it is enchanting, ensuring that each piece is a treasure in its own right.
Courtesy of Maurice Lacroix
Upon first glance, the watch exudes a sense of understated sophistication. The gunmetal grey hue of the case is reminiscent of the silent strength of the mountains from which the brand hails. The dark, fumé dial catches the eye with a Clous de Paris motif, reminiscent of the cobblestone streets of urban Europe, a pattern that transitions from a lighter tone at the center to a darker shade at the periphery. Such a feature plays with light in a subtle yet captivating dance, drawing the observer in to notice the finer details.
The watch's heart beats with the rhythm of the automatic ML115 caliber, visible through an exhibition caseback. This window into the soul of the watch showcases the intricate perlage and colimaçon finishes, a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship that Maurice Lacroix prides itself on. The rhodium-plated movement with its Côtes de Genève on the rotor spins in harmony with the passage of time, a visual poetry in motion that is both mesmerizing and reassuring.
The Maurice Lacroix Aikon Automatic is not merely a keeper of time but a guardian of moments. It captures the essence of the fleeting present with a calm assurance, its hands gliding over the indexes with a precision that is both a promise and a homage to the Swiss heritage of watchmaking excellence. The black-plated, white super-luminova hands ensure legibility in all conditions, a functional feature that does not compromise on style.
Courtesy of Maurice Lacroix
The integration of the Easy Strap Exchange system is a nod to the modern wearer's desire for versatility. The ability to switch between straps without the use of tools offers a seamless transition from day to night, from casual to formal, a reflection of the multifaceted lives we lead. The matching M-branded rubber strap not only provides comfort but also a tactile pleasure that complements the visual allure of the watch.
Maurice Lacroix's Aikon Automatic 42mm Gunmetal PVD Limited Edition stands as a beacon of the brand's creative spirit. Each element, from the six-clawed bezel that grips the sapphire crystal with double anti-reflective coating to the screwed crown that promises water resistance to 20 ATM, is a deliberate choice that speaks to the wearer's discerning taste. The balance of brushed and polished finishes on the gunmetal PVD-plated stainless steel case is a testament to the brand's attention to detail and its quest for perfection.
The very essence of the Aikon Automatic is encapsulated in its movement – the automatic ML115 caliber. This workhorse of a mechanism is a marvel of reliability, beating at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (vph). It's a figure that represents the balance between the need for precision in timekeeping and the longevity of the movement, ensuring that the watch remains a faithful companion throughout the daily rigors of wear. With a power reserve of 38 hours, the ML115 is designed to keep pace with the active lifestyle of its wearer, ready to go at a moment’s notice.
Courtesy of Maurice Lacroix
A closer look at the movement reveals a symphony of intricate decorations. The rhodium-plated components gleam with a lustrous sheen, signifying a level of refinement befitting the watch's limited edition status. Perlage and Colimaçon patterns on the bridges and plates, visible through the sapphire crystal case back, are traditional finishes that watch enthusiasts revere – not only for their beauty but also as marks of high-quality watchmaking. The rotor, adorned with Côtes de Genève, adds a rhythmic beauty to the movement's kinetics, a visual pleasure for those who appreciate the silent dance of gears and springs.
The external design of the Aikon Automatic is just as compelling as its internal mechanics. The 42mm diameter of the gunmetal PVD-plated stainless steel case offers a substantial presence on the wrist, while the 11mm height ensures that it maintains a profile that is both noticeable and comfortable. The finishing of the case cleverly plays with light, the brushed surfaces hinting at a tool-like robustness while the polished areas add a dash of sophistication.
One cannot discuss the case without mentioning the iconic bezel with its six 'claws'. More than a distinctive design choice, these claws enhance the watch's visual identity and serve as a protector of the sapphire crystal. This interplay of form and function is a hallmark of the Aikon series. The screwed crown nestles within the case, ensuring water resistance up to 20 ATM. This level of protection makes the watch suitable for a variety of aquatic adventures, from swimming to snorkeling, a testament to its versatility.
The dial of the Aikon Automatic is a study in meticulous design. The Clous de Paris motif, a textural delight, provides a three-dimensional quality that brings the dial to life. The gunmetal color offers a subtle backdrop for the matte black-plated hour markers filled with white Super-Luminova. This thoughtful application of luminescent material guarantees legibility in low-light conditions, while the contrast against the dial's texture creates a play of shadows and light that is endlessly fascinating.
Courtesy of Maurice Lacroix
The hands of the watch are no less considered in their design. The black plating of the hour and minute hands, along with the special black-plated second hand, maintain the monochromatic scheme of the timepiece. This design decision ensures that the hands stand out against the dial for ease of reading while also contributing to the watch's modern, urban aesthetic.
The Maurice Lacroix 'M' logo is subtly integrated into the design, never overpowering but always present, a gentle reminder of the brand's commitment to quality and style. The black rubber strap featuring the logo is a comfortable and durable choice, perfect for daily wear. The pin buckle ensures a secure fit, while the Easy Change System underscores the watch's adaptability, allowing the wearer to switch straps with ease, reflecting the ever-changing demands of contemporary life.
Beyond the sum of its parts, the Aikon Automatic 42mm Gunmetal PVD Limited Edition represents a philosophy of watchmaking that marries functionality with a bold visual statement. Each component, from the anti-reflective coating on the sapphire crystal to the precision of the movement, has been thoughtfully chosen and expertly executed. The result is a watch that offers not just a measure of time but a measure of one's personal taste and appreciation for the finer things in life.
Courtesy of Maurice Lacroix
The Aikon Automatic is a contemporary classic, a fusion of Maurice Lacroix's rich heritage and forward-thinking design. It encapsulates a moment in time for the brand, a snapshot of innovation, tradition, and craftsmanship, all housed within a timepiece that speaks volumes without uttering a single word. It's a watch that invites conversation, not just for its limited edition status, but for the story it tells of a brand perpetually in pursuit of excellence.