Swiss watchmaker Maurice Lacroix recently launched their new limited edition AIKON Automatic Bronze which takes advantage of the metal’s inherent synergy with brown to exude an edgy elegance.
It was eight years ago in 2016 when Maurice Lacroix first unveiled the AIKON, which was a bold reinterpretation of one of their best-selling models of the 1990s, the Calypso. At the time they had no idea that it would become a major milestone. Then, a year later another milestone was established when Maurice Lacroix was among the first to revive an almost forgotten metal in luxury watchmaking with their AIKON Bronze.
Seven years later, the AIKON Automatic Bronze continues to build on this heritage with a fresh take on a refined aesthetic with a distinctive and sharp urban edge to the new 2024 AIKON Automatic Bronze. Developing a distinctive patina over time means that depending on how, when, where, and by whom the watch is worn, each watch becomes unique to the wearer, leading to the ultimate form of personalisation.
The AIKON Automatic Bronze comes in a 42mm brushed bronze case, complemented by sandblasted riders on the bezel that add a degree of depth and character. The open stainless steel caseback gives the wearer a view of the watch’s inner workings. And with a water resistance of 200 metres, it makes for a perfect everyday practical timepiece.
Collaborating closely with specialist manufacturer Sellita, Maurice Lacroix developed the exclusive Automatic ML135 calibre movement based on the fabled SW200 which has rhodium-plated components and features superb colimaçonnage snailing and perlage circular graining finishes. The rotor, visible through the open caseback, is adorned with the Maurice Lacroix logo.
The previous 42mm bronze model had a deep blue quadrillé dial with Arabic numerals at 12, 6 and 9 o’clock, whereas the new AIKON Automatic Bronze is fitted with a gradient smoked chocolate dial. The Clous de Paris texture adds dimension and intricacy, with the 4N gold PVD Maurice Lacroix logo at 12 o’clock. The faceted hour, minute and second hands in 4N gold glide across the indexes, which are also in 4N gold, while the application of white Super-LumiNova® inserts on the indices and the hour and minute hands provide good legibility in low light.
The watch is fitted with an integrated vintage brown leather strap, embellished with the hallmark ‘M’ emblem in 4N Gold. The light grey stitching offers a subtle contrast, while Maurice Lacroix’s proprietary EasyStrap system provides extra functionality, enabling the wearer to switch straps in seconds without the need for a special tool.
Stephan Waser, Maurice Lacroix’s CEO, commented:
“In under a decade, AIKON has become a synonym for urban flair, and the range of references continues to expand. At the core of AIKON’s ongoing evolution is Maurice Lacroix’s mindset, which permeates every facet of our brand and our company: Be Creative. In this spirit, the AIKON Automatic Bronze is yet another testament to how the fusion of materials, colours and textures with precision, reliability and durability can forge something novel and distinctive.”
As has become customary with Maurice Lacroix, this new series is limited to 888 pieces, priced at £2,400 and is available from www.mauricelacroix.com.
Author Bio:
Simon Burrell is Editor of Our Man On The Ground, a former member of The British Guild of Travel Writers and professional photographer.
Photographs courtesy of Maurice Lacroix
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