Louis Vuitton's new watch collaboration with Kari Voutilainen to cost €550,000

In its second collaboration with independent watchmakers, Louis Vuitton has unveiled a travel-inspired watch designed by Swiss-based Finn Kari Voutilainen, WWD reports.

"Kari Voutilainen is one of the most prolific watchmakers of his era and, in particular, one of the pioneers of independent watchmaking," said Louis Vuitton's Director of Watches Jean Arnault. "I hope that this watch will be recognized as a celebration of independent watchmaking, which will help to support the movement in the coming years."

The watch, called the LVKV-02 GMR 6, is available in a limited edition of five pieces—and is priced at €550,000. It is part of a five-year cycle of collaboration between the French brand and independent watch labels.

As with the model signed in collaboration with Atelier Akrivia, proceeds from the sale of this watch will go towards funding the biennial Louis Vuitton Watch Prize for Independent Creatives, which launched in 2023.