Louis Moinet Astronef Techno
The watch's movement, the LM 105 calibre, incorporates sixteen ceramic ball bearings and offers a 48-hour power reserve, reflecting a three-year development process. Share
Louis Moinet’s Astronef Techno is a landmark in the evolution of horology, blending state-of-the-art materials with groundbreaking mechanics. This timepiece is a significant leap forward, encapsulating a spirit of innovation reminiscent of Louis Moinet himself, who, in 1816, crafted the world’s first chronograph. The Astronef Techno, with its pioneering features and expressive design, continues this legacy of pushing the boundaries of watchmaking.
Central to the Astronef Techno’s allure is its innovative use of materials and technology. The dial, crafted from a silicon wafer, is intricately engraved with microelectronic circuits, providing not just a backdrop but a dynamic canvas that interacts with light. This material choice is emblematic of Louis Moinet’s forward-thinking approach, marrying the precision of microelectronics with the artistry of watchmaking. The visual effect is mesmerizing, with the dial’s reflections and textures changing with each movement of the wearer’s wrist, creating a spectacle of light and shadow.
The timepiece’s mechanical ingenuity is equally compelling. Featuring a double satellite tourbillon, the Astronef Techno showcases a ballet of engineering precision. These twin tourbillons, each rotating at different speeds, align perfectly every few minutes—a synchronization that is as much a technical feat as it is a visual delight. This precise alignment underscores the watch’s exceptional accuracy which is a hallmark of Louis Moinet’s commitment to combining aesthetic elegance with mechanical perfection.
Beyond its mechanical prowess, the Astronef Techno is a marvel of engineering innovation. The movement, visible through an open case back, is powered by the LM 105 calibre, incorporating sixteen ceramic ball bearings for smooth operation. This calibre ensures a 48-hour power reserve, showcasing the meticulous design and engineering that went into its three-year development process. Furthermore, the watch introduces a novel crown mechanism that eschews traditional pulling in favor of a selector integrated into the case back, streamlining the functions of time-setting and winding.
“Watchmaking of the future is all about defying conventions, exploring startling horizons and making emotional connections a key part of the concept. The ASTRONEF TECHNO is my own vision for the future. It is the perfect fusion of ancient watchmaking traditions with the inventiveness of our time. Altogether, this timepiece represents a continuous quest for innovation.” Jean-Marie Schaller, Owner and Creative Director
The Astronef Techno’s case is a fusion of robustness and aesthetic grace. Comprising a sapphire band and flange set upon a grade-5 titanium frame, it offers a glimpse into the watch’s complex inner workings while maintaining a sleek and modern silhouette. The openworked lugs add a touch of lightness and contemporary style, enhancing the watch’s avant-garde appeal.
