he new Aikon Automatic Bronze capitalises on the metal’s inherent synergy with brown to exude elegance with an edge. Here, the dial’s Clous de Paris pattern with a fumé gradient, alongside restrained stick indices, not only adheres to the collection’s established aesthetic codes but also advances them. As has become customary, this new series, too, is limited: 888 pieces.

In 2016, when Maurice Lacroix unveiled the Aikon, a bold reinterpretation of the Calypso – one of their best-selling models of the 1990s – they scarcely imagined it would become a major milestone. Another one was established just a year later: in 2017, Maurice Lacroix was among the first to revive a nearly forgotten metal in luxury watchmaking with the Aikon Bronze.

Today, the Aikon Automatic Bronze continues to build on this heritage, offering a compelling take on a refined aesthetic with a distinctive and sharp urban edge. Reflecting this ethos, the metal’s history as a cornerstone of human civilisation is as captivating as its natural properties: it develops a distinctive patina over time, which, as a direct consequence of how, when, where, and by whom the watch is worn, leads to the ultimate form of personalisation.

The Aikon Automatic Bronze comes in a robust 42mm brushed bronze case, complemented sandblasted riders on the bezel that subtly add depth and character. With a case height of 11mm, the presence on the wrist remains refined and unobtrusive, yet commanding. The open caseback, crafted from stainless steel, provides a fascinating view of the watch’s inner workings. With a water resistance of 20 ATM, the Aikon Automatic Bronze is ready for any adventure in any setting.

Where the previous 42mm bronze model sported a deep blue quadrillé dial with Arabic numerals at 12, 6 and 9 o’clock, the Aikon Automatic Bronze enters a new space of sophistication 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 serving as a beacon of lustre. It is an interplay of light and shadow, as the faceted hour, minute and second hands in 4N gold glide across the indexes, also in 4N gold. The application of white Super-LumiNova inserts on the indices and the hour and minute hands ensures optimal legibility at a glance, even in dim light. More than that, it adds to the distinctive presence created by the blend of hues and textures.

Maurice Lacroix collaborated closely with specialist manufacturer Sellita to develop the exclusive Automatic ML135 calibre, which is based on the fabled SW200. In line with Maurice Lacroix’s exacting standards of horological precision, the movement, with its rhodium-plated components, features superb colimaçonnage snailing and perlage circular graining finishes. The rotor, visible through the open caseback, is adorned with the Maurice Lacroix logo. The watch’s rhythm is kept steady at 28,800 vibrations per hour, ensuring reliable accuracy with a power reserve of 38 hours.

The integrated vintage brown leather strap, embellished with the hallmark ‘M’ emblem in 4N Gold, underscores the concept of refined urbanity with an edge. At the same time, it is a natural complement to the bronze case, resonating with the watch’s evolving patina. The light grey stitching offers a contrast that is both subtle and pronounced, and undeniably sophisticated. Maurice Lacroix’s proprietary EasyStrap system exemplifies functionality, enabling the wearer to switch straps in seconds – without the need for a special tool – to suit the time, place or mood.

Stephan Waser, Maurice Lacroix’s CEO: “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.”

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

• Case diameter: 42 mm
• Case Height: 11 mm
• Case Material: Bronze
• Water resistance: 20 ATM
• Case: Brushed bronze case with sandblasted claws. Stainless steel open caseback
• Dial: Smoked brown clous-de-Paris dial with 4N gold PVD M-logo and date at 3 o’clock
• Index: 4N gold index with white SLN
• Hands: Gold 4N facetted hour and minute hands with white SLN, gold 4N second hand
• Strap: Vintage brown leather strap with 4N gold PVD M-logo, light grey stitches and Easychange system
• Buckle: Bronze pin buckle
• Movement: Automatic ML 115 with a white/black date
• Functions: Hours, minutes and seconds; date at 3 o’clock
• Vibrations: 28,800 vph / 4 Hz
• Power Reserve: 38 hours
• Number of jewels: 26
• Decorations: Perlage and colimaçon
• Rotor with M-logo: Rhodium plated
• Special Edition: Limited edition of 888