ow could one integrate a mechanism with over 300 components into a 40 mm case, whose mission is to be even more spectacular than its 46 mm predecessor,” Jean-Marie Schaller, the CEO of Louis Moinet, and his team were wondering.

This secret dream remained hidden in the back of their mind for two long years. Whether the efforts of designer Fabrice Gonet of those of case-making artisan Bertrand Crevoisier, nothing seemed to work – until that lightbulb moment! The answer came from an original design, combining a strongly domed crystal with a flange dissociated from the glass notch... Here’s the backstory.

The new Memoris Spirit stems from the interaction of numerous factors: ergonomics, the quest for beauty, the assurance of wearer comfort and functionality. The evolution of the Memoris aesthetic concept has of course favoured the definition of an attractive formal appearance, but it is above all based on the use of stylistic elements that reflect the value of the technical solutions adopted. The creation of a double-reading flange, skilfully integrated beneath a curved crystal, is particularly noteworthy. It reveals the power of the chronograph mechanism in a new light.

The magic lies in the fact that even though the case is smaller, its construction enables enhanced visual appreciation of the mechanism! Memoris Spirit propels the brand into the select circles of modern, uncompromising watchmaking. Heir to an ancestral know-how, it combines this expertise with an incisive stylistic vocabulary.

The care devoted to the aerodynamic treatment of the Memoris Spirit lines began with the integration of a new, more fluid crown support. The sides feature an updated look notably including openworked lugs featuring a subtly satin-brushed curve on top that accentuates the smooth integration of the strap.

The magical touch of the light playing across the finishes accentuates an assertive character and present a fusional whole composed of a powerful mechanism whose functions are magnified by a highly original exterior. The convex two-part dial with its legible markings features a sunburst chronograph plate lighting up the chronograph mechanism, while the glareproofed sapphire crystals are domed on either side so to as to slim down the silhouette and guarantee optimal ergonomics.

The case is made of grade 5 titanium, which is extremely light on the wrist (only 18 grams). The strap is specially designed to be integrated into the case and to promote maximum comfort. The slender appearance is underlined by aerodynamic counters emerging from the mechanism. The splendid magic of the chronograph is fully visible on the dial side and this major creation has now become iconic. Entirely in keeping with the Louis Moinet tradition, the new stylistic orientation is defined by its meticulous design. The design of this quintessentially contemporary chronograph is inspired by the world’s first chronograph produced by Louis Moinet in 1816, inventor of the chronograph and of high frequency (Guinness World Records™).

Of all horological complications, the chronograph is doubtless the most useful in the modern world. It also offers the most interaction with its wearer. Memoris Spirit considerably increases this pleasure, as it is 100% visual. One gentle push on the single pusher and a unique choreography unfolds before your eyes. The different elements – levers, clutch, hammers, column wheel, springs and wheels – are set into motion and interact with the ultimate goal of activating the chronograph and measuring time.

The modern and spectacular design of the Memoris Spirit requires the production of 147 components for the upper part dedicated to the chronograph and 164 components for the lower part corresponding to the self-winding movement.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Case

• Materials: 18K 5N rose gold, polished and satin-brushed | DLC treated titanium caseback or Grade 5 titanium, polished and satin-brushed
• Glasses: Box-type sapphire crystal | Glareproofed on both sides
• Single pusher “Clous de Paris” hobnail pattern
• Diameter: 40.7 mm

Dial

• Hours/minutes
• Colours: various choices
• Construction: two-part
• Finish: sunburst
• Hour-markers: polished
• Counters: Translucent material with white transfer
• Hands: Facetted
• Inner bezel ring: Circular satin-finished

Movement

• Manufacture: Louis Moinet
• Calibre: LM84
• Functions: Hours | Minutes | Seconds | 60-second & 30-minute chronograph counters
• Complication: Single-pusher column-wheel chronograph
• Type: Self-winding mechanism | Balance with screws
• Oscillating weight: Bi-material | 6 ball bearings | Adorned with concentric “Clous de Paris” hobnail pattern and "Fleur de Lys”
• Finishes on the upper side
• Mainplate: sunburst
• Steel parts: straight-grained and chamfered
• Gear trains: circular satin-finished
• Finishes on the underside: Circular “Côtes de Genève” hobnail pattern
• Self-winding bridge: diamond-cut chamfers, engraved and gilded Louis Moinet symbols
• Diamond-polished sinks
• Components: 311
• Oscillations: 28,800 vibrations/hour
• Frequency: 4 Hz
• Jewels: 30
• Power reserve: 48 hours
• Water resistance: 50 metres

Strap

• Material: Louisiana alligator leather | Alligator lining | Preformed wristband
• Clasp: Triple-blade folding clasp | Fine adjustment | Curved “Fleur de Lys”