time-keeper


Louis Erard Le Régulateur Gravé Noir reinterprets a horological classic

November 2024


Louis Erard Le Régulateur Gravé Noir reinterprets a horological classic

An archetype reimagined, the new model features the Swiss brand’s first-ever sector dial in a novel execution, by incorporating the age-old technique of engraving. Now part of the permanent Noirmont collection, it merges distinctive design with traditional techniques in a ‘neovintage’ twist.

L

ouis Erard unveils a new emblematic piece joining its permanent collection: Le Régulateur Gravé, a standout from the Noirmont Métiers d’Art line. This creation reinterprets a classic horological archetype, the sector dial, while showcasing traditional engraving techniques. By introducing this non-limited model, Louis Erard strengthens its unique identity, built on bold creativity and horological heritage, all while staying true to the independent spirit that has driven the brand since its inception.

Louis Erard reaffirms its identity through two major collections: Noirmont, replacing the Excellence collection, and 2300, succeeding La Sportive. The Noirmont collection is structured around three key pillars: the classic Noirmont model, Noirmont Métiers d’Art, and Noirmont X for collaborations. The Régulateur Gravé, a centerpiece of the Métiers d’Art line, is now part of the permanent collection, marking an important milestone for the brand.

The watch features the signature design of the Régulateur with a vertical display of time indicators. Inspired by the sector dials of the 1930s, Louis Erard brings it into the present, incorporating an age-old watchmaking technique: engraving. True to its philosophy, the brand treats watchmaking as a canvas for artistic expression, where the only rule is to break conventions, except those that define its unique identity.

The big picture before diving into the details:
• Reimagining an archetype: a sector-type dial unlike any others
• Innovation: First-ever sector-type dial for Louis Erard
• Technique: Engraving as tradition but shaken and stirred
• Permanent collection : Le Régulateur Gravé joins the core collection alongside Le Régulateur Guilloché
• Collection name: Noirmont, home to Louis Erard since 1992
• Signature features: Fir tree hands and crown, a minimalist style in line with Louis Erard’s approach ‘Less is More, More is Less’

“This watch embodies the perfect expression of what Louis Erard stands for. A complex dial in its simplest form. Stripping down the visual and technical elements to their essence, to the purest aesthetic, while bringing greater depth to the details and adding value to both design and craftsmanship." - Manuel Emch

Le Régulateur Gravé perfectly exemplifies Manuel Emch’s “Napkin Strategy”: a watchmaking philosophy that draws inspiration from tradition while boldly reinventing itself. This approach is founded on strong visual codes and complete creative freedom, all deeply rooted in the brand’s rich heritage. With Noirmont and 2300, Louis Erard is redefining its collections to reflect its essence and independence.

The sector dial, emblematic of 1930s watchmaking, is reimagined here by Louis Erard for the first time. On a finely grained dial, engraving creates a subtle play of reliefs through a brilliant galvanic treatment. This technical and aesthetic precision highlights the key elements: time segmentation, optimised readability, concentric circles, and a railway track motif. The design, true to the “neovintage” spirit, captures the essence of the past while asserting a unique modernity that is distinctly Louis Erard.

The choice of the collection name, Noirmont, is not incidental. It reflects the soul of the brand, rooted in this region of the Swiss Jura since 1992. More than just a geographical designation, Noirmont also symbolises the inspiration behind the fir tree hands and crown, elements that are deeply intertwined with Louis Erard’s identity.

Le Régulateur Gravé Noir is presented in a 39 mm version, featuring a polished steel case with 5N rose-gilt details. Its black dial with a fine-grained finish, complemented by fir tree hands and minimalist indicators, offers a clear and refined reading of time. The automatic Sellita SW266-1 movement this exquisite piece, priced at CHF 2,900 excluding VAT.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Ref. 85248AA13.BVA158

MOVEMENT

  • Automatic regulator, Sellita caliber SW266-1, 111⁄2’’’, Ø25.60 mm, thickness: 5.60 mm, 31 jewels, 28,800 VpH (4Hz), meticulously decorated, special openworked oscillating weight with black lacquered Louis Erard symbol, approx. 38 hours of power reserve

FUNCTIONS

  • Hours counter at 12 o’clock, central minutes hand, seconds counter at 6 o’clock

CASE

  • Polished stainless steel, Ø39 mm, lug width: 20 mm, lug to lug: 45.90 mm, thickness: 12.82 mm, 3 pieces, domed sapphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment on both sides, movement visible through the transparent black caseback, water resistant up to a pressure of 5 bars (50 m/165 ft), signature fir tree crown

DIAL

  • Grained black base dial. Polished rose-gilt indexes, numbers, and railroad tracks

HANDS

  • Polished rose-gilt signature fir tree hands

STRAP

  • Beige grained calf leather bracelet with tone-on-tone stitching, black grained calf leather lining, polished stainless steel pin buckle, ergot bars for quick strap change. Dimensions: 20/18mm width, 80/115 mm length

PRICE EXCL. TAX: CHF 2,900

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