Maurice Lacroix Aikon Automatic Titanium

In the ever-evolving world of watchmaking, where innovation and tradition intertwine, Maurice Lacroix consistently emerges as a brand that delivers exceptional value and style. Their latest offerings, the Aikon Automatic Titanium and Aikon Automatic Titanium Chronograph, showcase the brand's unwavering commitment to pushing boundaries and captivating watch enthusiasts.



Before delving into the intricacies of these new timepieces, it's worth exploring the rich history of Maurice Lacroix. Founded in 1975, the brand quickly established itself as a purveyor of fine Swiss watches. While their early years were marked by assembling watches for other brands, Maurice Lacroix soon embarked on a journey to create their own unique timepieces. The 1990s witnessed the introduction of the Calypso, a collection that resonated with watch enthusiasts due to its distinctive design and accessible luxury.



Building upon the success of the Calypso, Maurice Lacroix unveiled the Aikon in 2016. This contemporary collection, inspired by its predecessor, captured the essence of urban style with its bold lines, intricate details, and impeccable craftsmanship. The Aikon Automatic 42mm, crafted in steel, became an instant hit, appealing to those seeking a sophisticated timepiece that exuded Swiss quality without breaking the bank.



Never content to rest on their laurels, Maurice Lacroix actively engages with retailers, watch enthusiasts, and the market to understand evolving desires and preferences. This customer-centric approach has culminated in the introduction of the Aikon Automatic and Aikon Automatic Chronograph in titanium, a material celebrated for its exceptional properties.



Titanium, a lightweight yet remarkably strong alloy, has long been favored in industries such as motorsport, aerospace, and marine engineering. Its resistance to corrosion, hypoallergenic nature, and striking aesthetics make it an ideal choice for crafting exceptional timepieces.



Maurice Lacroix has expertly combined two grades of titanium – Grade 2 and Grade 5 – in the construction of the Aikon Automatic and Aikon Automatic Chronograph. This combination creates a captivating visual contrast, where the polished accents of Grade 5 titanium gleam against the backdrop of the sandblasted Grade 2 titanium. The interplay of finishes, achieved through meticulous craftsmanship, adds a layer of sophistication and ensures that these watches stand out from the crowd.



The Aikon Automatic 42mm, available in two captivating variants, exemplifies the perfect fusion of style and functionality. The grey dial version exudes a cool, monochromatic aesthetic, while the vibrant purple dial option caters to those who embrace a bolder approach to self-expression. Both models feature a meticulously crafted clous-de-Paris dial pattern, faceted hands with Super-LumiNova for enhanced legibility, a center seconds hand, and a date display.



The titanium case, meticulously finished with a blend of sandblasted and polished surfaces, complements the dial's refined elegance. The iconic Aikon arms that grace the bezel are expertly polished to a mirror-like shine, a testament to the brand's dedication to detail. The interplay of light on these contrasting finishes adds a touch of dynamism to the watch's overall aesthetic.



For those who navigate the fast-paced urban jungle, where every second counts, the Aikon Automatic Chronograph 44mm emerges as the ultimate companion. Available with a striking purple dial with silver counters or a sophisticated gold dial with black subdials, this timepiece effortlessly blends form and function.



The dial, adorned with a captivating lattice-like motif, features luminescent accents, a day-date display, and three chronograph counters. This wealth of information is presented in a harmonious and easily readable manner, ensuring that you never miss a beat.



The chronograph's titanium case showcases a subtle interplay of brushed and polished surfaces, creating a refined and understated elegance. As with the Aikon Automatic, accents of Grade 5 titanium add a touch of brilliance to the overall design.



Beyond their aesthetic appeal, the Aikon Automatic and Aikon Automatic Chronograph are engineered to withstand the rigors of an active lifestyle. With a water resistance of 200 meters, these watches are ready to accompany you on your adventures, whether you're exploring the urban landscape or venturing into the great outdoors.



The ML Easy Strap Exchange system further enhances the versatility of these timepieces. With a few simple clicks, you can effortlessly swap the titanium bracelet for a strap of your choice, allowing you to personalize your watch to suit any occasion or outfit.



First and foremost, the star of the show is, without a doubt, the titanium case. Available in both 42mm and 44mm sizes, this lightweight wonder not only feels incredibly comfortable on the wrist but also boasts a modern, industrial aesthetic that's right at home in any urban setting. Maurice Lacroix didn't just slap some titanium on an existing watch; they've thoughtfully integrated two grades of the metal – Grade 2 for the majority of the case and Grade 5 for the polished accents like the bezel's signature claws. This creates a subtle yet striking contrast that adds depth and visual interest to the watch.



The dial is where the Aikon Automatic Titanium truly comes alive. The 42mm model features a captivating Clous de Paris pattern that catches the light beautifully, while the 44mm chronograph variant sports a more intricate, embossed dial with contrasting subdials. Both versions are available in a range of eye-catching colors, from classic grey to vibrant purple and even a luxurious gold tone, ensuring there's an option to suit every taste. Luminescent hands and markers guarantee legibility in any lighting condition, while the date window (and day-date display on the chronograph) adds a touch of practicality to the overall design.



Powering the Aikon Automatic Titanium is the ML115 automatic movement, a reliable workhorse that offers a 38-hour power reserve. The chronograph model, on the other hand, houses the ML112, a robust caliber that drives the chronograph functions along with the time and date displays. While these movements may not be in-house creations, they are nonetheless solid performers that have proven their worth in countless Maurice Lacroix watches.



The Aikon Automatic Titanium comes equipped with a matching titanium bracelet that echoes the case's blend of brushed and polished finishes. It's not just about looks, though; the bracelet is also incredibly comfortable thanks to its ergonomic design and the lightweight nature of titanium. And with the Easy Strap Exchange system, swapping it out for a different strap is a breeze, allowing you to customize the watch to your heart's content.



With a starting price of $2,950 for the 42mm Aikon Automatic Titanium and $4,600 for the 44mm chronograph version, these watches offer a compelling value proposition. You're getting a Swiss-made timepiece with a distinctive design, high-quality materials, and solid mechanics – all at a price that won't break the bank.