The Louis Moinet Astronef is the latest and greatest new mechanical masterpiece presented by Ateliers Louis Moinet. Heir to both ancestral know-how and an unyielding desire to create the design of tomorrow, its character combines adrenaline and contemporary art. The Louis Moinet Astronef propels us into the exclusive world of uncompromising modern watchmaking. The making of the new Astronef lies behind human curiosity with a mechanism that took three years to develop.
Equipped with a complex dial and super-light case construction, the Louis Moinet Astronef showcases recently introduced technology involving two tourbillons rotating in opposite directions at high speed that were first presented with the Louis Moinet Space Revolution. They cross paths 18 times per hour —to be precise every 3 minutes and 20 seconds— and are built on two different levels.
The calibre LM105 mechanism features a flying satellite double tourbillon with five ball-bearing mechanisms with seven ceramic bearings and one ball-bearing mechanism with nine ceramic bearings. This manual wound movement is powered by two mainspring barrels that supply energy to each tourbillon independently and the movement is composed of 471 parts that take up to a month to assemble. The tourbillon cages are geometrically shaped, with each cage having a total weight of only 0.25 grams and with an 18K gold counterweight weighing 0.4 grams. Just like on the Space Revolution, the time is set via a selector on the back of the watch, without the need to pull the crown out. The movement beats at a frequency of 21,600 vph to provide a power reserve of 48 hours when fully wound.
The impressive thing about this mechanism is that it is hidden in the base of the frame and its complexity is marked by its central column which transmits the orders to the tourbillons and hands.
The dial is made from a plate measuring 0.6 mm thick, from which 0.2 mm is then hollowed out to reveal the numerals and a rack, in order to create a depth effect facilitating readings. The ensuing deep black DLC treatment creates a striking contrast with the rhodium plating and endows it with a two-tone hue. Finally, a circular satin-brushed finish is applied to instil it with undeniable strength of character. Mastery of different finishings that blend into one very good-looking super watch.
The case in 18K rose gold works as a frame to the curved sapphire crystal that serves as a sapphire container. This maximum transparency enables observers to admire a unique sight. The technical construction of the case is unusual with this sapphire container mounted on an 18K rose gold frame with open-worked lugs. Therefore the case middle appears as a sapphire dome with an applied inner bezel ring. This case construction allows for amazing views of the six distinct elements that are in motion with two satellite tourbillons rotating around the dial, as well as their two cages and their two counterweights.
The Louis Moinet Astronef is delivered on a black alligator strap with an 18K rose gold folding clasp and presented in a box specially made for the watch. Finely crafted by an artisan, it notably features a straw marquetry motif in various shades and the buyer can choose from several different graphic design alternatives. The Astronef will be produced in a highly exclusive limited edition of 8 pieces.
Sticker Price $380,000 USD. For more info on Louis Moinet click here.
