Louis Vuitton has unveiled Monterey, a limited-edition watch series that revives the Maison’s very first wristwatch model, originally created in 1988 by Italian architect Gae Aulenti. The original Montre I combined innovative design with technology, becoming a symbol of Louis Vuitton’s early ambitions. The new Monterey watch preserves the signature “pebble” spherical shape of the original while showcasing modern watchmaking mastery.
The 39mm yellow gold case is hand-polished, featuring a crown at the 12 o’clock position—a nod to the pocket watches that inspired the original Montre I. Its lugless design has been updated for enhanced comfort and balance. The strap bears the engraving “1 of 188”, highlighting the model’s rarity, with only 188 pieces available worldwide.
The Monterey dial uses the traditional Grand Feu enamel technique on a white gold base. Layers of enamel are fired at over 800°C, creating a durable, lustrous finish. Black, red, and blue enamel markers are built up through multiple firings to achieve a textured, relief effect. The gold hands with red lacquer and thermally blued seconds hand echo the design of the original 1988 watch.
Inside, the watch houses the automatic LFT MA01.02 caliber, developed by La Fabrique du Temps. With sandblasted bridges, a main plate featuring circular graining, and a rose-gold rotor engraved with LV-inspired V-shaped motifs, the movement offers a 45-hour power reserve and precision in line with Louis Vuitton’s modern standards.
Monterey is available exclusively at Louis Vuitton boutiques for approximately $53,000, representing the brand’s return to its origins while marrying Gae Aulenti’s heritage with contemporary horological craftsmanship.
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