Latest news with #KariVoutilainen
Bloomberg
3 days ago
- Business
- Bloomberg
Guggenheim's Rosenfield Revives Danish Brand Selling $450,000 Watches
Urban Jürgensen, a Scandinavian watch brand with a history dating back more than 250 years, is now being revived thanks to a partnership between an American-based finance family and independent watchmaker Kari Voutilainen. Its first three watches were officially launched today in Los Angeles—the result of three-and-a-half years of research and development. The timepieces range in price from about $125,000 to more than $400,000 and are marketed under the slogan, 'Time well spent.' 'We are bringing expert Swiss watchmaking and exquisite craftsmanship together with the Scandinavian heritage of the brand so people can appreciate it all in a modern way,' says Alex Rosenfield, who co-owns the brand with his father, Andy, and Voutilainen. Alex's background is in fashion and beauty marketing, and Andy is a philanthropist and the president of the financial services firm Guggenheim Partners LLC.
Hype Malaysia
30-04-2025
- Hype Malaysia
2 New Drops From Louis Vuitton & M.A.D.Editions That'll Blow Up Your Adventure Game
Whether you're hiking, diving, or simply navigating daily life, these durable timepieces are built to withstand it all. From rugged outdoor designs to vintage classics brimming with history, these watches offer more than just the time – they're designed to endure. Here are our top picks for the toughest watches. Louis Vuitton x Kari Voutilainen LVKV-02 GMR 6 The Louis Vuitton x Kari Voutilainen LVKV-02 GMR 6 is the epitome of luxury, craftsmanship, and travel-inspired design. This collaboration between Louis Vuitton and the master watchmaker Kari Voutilainen is more than just a timepiece; it's a piece of history, blending artistry, tradition, and innovation. The LVKV-02 GMR 6 combines Louis Vuitton's travel heritage with Voutilainen's expert craftsmanship. Its 40.5mm case, made from tantalum and platinum, showcases the high standards of both brands. Inspired by Louis Vuitton's iconic trunks, the 'Escale' case adds a touch of travel elegance. Each lug is hand-polished, and the case side takes four hours to satin-finish, creating a smooth blend of matte and shiny textures. The gold dial blends both brands' artistry, featuring a diamond-polished hour circle by Maryna Bossy and hand-guilloché detailing. It includes miniature painting, engraving, and enamel work with a day/night disc in Louis Vuitton's signature saffron and blue. A hidden Monogram flower in the enamel adds a refined touch of elegance. The LVKV-02 GMR 6 features a manual-winding mechanical movement, hand-finished and assembled in the Voutilainen workshop. Known for its two direct-impulse escapement wheels, the movement enhances energy efficiency, longevity, and accuracy. It also includes a retrograde power reserve display and a second time zone with a 24-hour format – perfect for global travelers. Limited to just five pieces, the LVKV-02 GMR 6 is an extremely rare creation. Each watch is paired with a bespoke Louis Vuitton travel trunk, handcrafted using the Maison's signature techniques. The trunk, designed to store the watch, doubles as a work of art, further enhancing the collection's exclusivity. The Louis Vuitton x Kari Voutilainen LVKV-02 GMR 6 isn't just a timepiece; it's a testament to exceptional craftsmanship, elegance, and functionality. With only five pieces in existence, this collaboration represents the pinnacle of artistry in watchmaking. Discover the artistry behind this rare masterpiece – explore the Louis Vuitton x Kari Voutilainen LVKV-02 GMR 6 now at Louis Vuitton Malaysia. M.A.D.2 by Eric Giroud The M.A.D.2 by Eric Giroud is a stunning evolution of the M.A.D.1, blending horological craftsmanship with a striking design inspired by the electric energy of the 1990s club scene. The M.A.D.2 carries forward the legacy of its predecessor, the M.A.D.1, but with a new twist that pushes boundaries even further. The M.A.D.1 made MB&F watches more accessible, but the M.A.D.2 takes things up a notch with bold design and no limits on creativity. Designed by longtime MB&F collaborator Eric Giroud, it's inspired by the vibrant club scene of 1990s Lausanne – specifically MAD and Dolce Vita – where music, culture, and imagination ruled. That same energy is captured in every detail of the M.A.D.2. The M.A.D.2 stands out with its sleek, almond-shaped stainless steel case that feels as smooth as it looks. Its hour and minute subdials resemble DJ turntables, while the centre dial mimics vinyl grooves – a clear tribute to music. Even the stroboscopic band nods to the iconic Technics SL-1200, capturing the spirit of classic club gear. One of the most unique features is the bi-directional jumping hour complication, which adds an element of surprise for the wearer. The watch also features a gyroscopic off-centred rotor that can be seen from both the front and the back, offering a 360-degree view of its intricate mechanics. There are two versions of the M.A.D.2: an Orange edition, reserved exclusively for MB&F's loyal 'Tribe' members and friends, and a Green edition that will be available through a raffle system. This follows the same strategy used for the M.A.D.1, where access to these exclusive timepieces is highly sought after and, inevitably, highly competitive. Eric Giroud's M.A.D.2 design is a tribute to the vibrant '90s club scene and vinyl culture. From turntable-inspired dials to nods to Technics gear, every detail echoes that era's energy. A custom track by DJ Mandrax completes the nostalgic vibe. The M.A.D.2 is a bold step forward for marking a shift from its original concept as a one-time project. After the unexpected success of the M.A.D.1 and its raffles, the brand has entered a new phase. Created by Giroud, the M.A.D.2 moves away from Max Büsser's original vision, signaling a new era for the brand. The future looks promising, with more surprises likely to come from this experimental brand. In summary, the M.A.D.2 by Eric Giroud isn't just a watch; it's a celebration of creative rebellion, 90s nostalgia, and the electrifying pulse of club culture, all wrapped up in a visually striking timepiece that merges cutting-edge design with horological innovation. The orange edition is exclusive to 'The Tribe' for CHF2,900 (RM13,891) + VAT. The green edition, available via raffle with 2,000 pieces in the first batch, will be drawn soon – check Instagram for updates! For more info and to secure yours, click here.
Web Release
04-04-2025
- Business
- Web Release
G.F.J: A NEW COLLECTION BRINGS BACK AN ICONIC MOVEMENT TO CELEBRATE ZENITH'S 160TH ANNIVERSARY
When Georges Favre-Jacot established his manufacture in 1865, his objective was to create 'the perfect watch': the finest, most precise and most reliable timepiece ever made. This quest for perfection is reflected in the very name of his brand, ZENITH, referring to the highest point in the sky. To celebrate its 160th anniversary and its quest for excellence in all fields of watchmaking art, the brand releases a timeless classic powered by an exceptional movement. Named after the initials of Georges Favre-Jacot, the sleek, slender and elegant G.F.J. brings back to life the legendary calibre 135, the most awarded movement from the golden age of observatory chronometer competitions. ZENITH, Chronometry and the legendary calibre 135 Decades ago, observatory trials were extremely important. Beyond chronometric science, the fame associated with these timing competitions was considerable. Observatories witnessed and vouched for the level of precision that expert watchmakers were able to achieve. Aware of the prestige they could acquire, brands submitted specifically prepared movements to these trials. ZENITH took part in trials as early as 1897, and over the years, its movements have won a record 2,333 chronometry prizes, more than any other brand. Among these, a movement outshone all others, the legendary calibre 135. Designed by Ephrem Jobin at the request of Charles Ziegler, Technical Director of ZENITH, this chronometer calibre was specifically developed to compete in chronometry competitions at the Observatories of Neuchâtel, Geneva, Kew Teddington, or Besançon. Its name is derived from its dimensions, 13 lines (or 30mm, the maximum size allowed in the wristwatch category competition at the Neuchatel Observatory trial) and 5mm in thickness. It was produced from 1949 to 1962 in two distinct versions: a commercial variant (135), and an 'O' iteration (135-O) created exclusively for observatory chronometry trials. The calibre 135-O received 235 chronometry prizes, an absolute record in the history of watchmaking. Regulated by renowned Zenith 'chronome?triers' Charles Fleck and Rene? Gygax, this movement set an extraordinary record with five consecutive first prizes in the wristwatch category at the Neuchâtel Observatory, from 1950 to 1954. The calibre 135-O legend was revived in 2022 through an exceptional collaboration with Kari Voutilainen and Phillips in Association with Bacs & Russo. Ten vintage movements from the 1950-1954 'serial winning' years were restored and decorated to the highest degree possible by master watchmaker Kari Voutilainen within an ultra-exclusive limited edition that struck a deeply resonating chord with discerning collectors. Icons stand the test of time, and the beauty of having such a rich heritage is being able to share it. Today, ZENITH takes things a step further, resurrecting the Calibre 135 and bringing it into the 21st century. This new version of the movement uses the dimensions, the look and the architecture of its ancestor. It incorporates an offset center wheel, creating space to accommodate the oversized balance wheel that improves both precision and stability. Yet, far from being a reproduction of the historical calibre, it is a modern re-engineering that integrates up-to-date technical solutions and materials wherever possible. The barrel now delivers 72 hours of power reserve compared to 40 hours in the 1950s version. It drives a new gear train featuring an optimized tooth geometry for enhanced efficiency. Operating at 2.5 Hz, the balance wheel features regulation screws and a Breguet overcoil. A signature feature of the 135-O, the double arrow-shaped regulator allows for precise adjustment, while a stop-second mechanism has been added to set the time to the exact second. The balance staff is now protected by spring-mounted jewel settings. The movements are regulated to be precise within +/-2 seconds per day, and their precision is officially certified by the COSC. The sophisticated yet sober decoration of the calibre 135 is a testament to its history of excellence. Each component is meticulously finished. The bridges are distinguished by their 'brick' guilloché finishing, inspired by the distinctive façade of red and white-painted bricks of the ZENITH Manufacture that proudly spell out the letters G.F.J., the initials of Georges Favre-Jacot. The barrel features circular a satin finish and the crown wheel is black-polished. The large jewels add another refined touch. Perfection is in the details – the G.F.J. After 160 years, the ambition to create a watch at the Zenith of perfection continues to guide the brand's watchmakers. In tribute to this unique legacy, ZENITH designed a timepiece distilled to its quintessential characteristics, where perfection is in the details. True to the era of the calibre 135, the new G.F.J. watch captures the essence of the 1950s, seamlessly blending vintage elegance with contemporary accents. Its slender, elegant 39mm platinum round case features a stepped bezel and curved stepped lugs. Its thin profile and sculptural lines are graced by exceptional finishes with alternating brushed and polished surfaces. The notched crown is emblazoned with the G.F.J. initials. Beneath the sapphire glass box, the G.F.J. is adorned with a blue dial – the ZENITH signature colour symbolizing, together with the star logo, the brand's connection to the sky and its relentless search for precision. Its three-part construction creates a compelling sense of depth while meticulously crafted details add a refined touch of sophistication. The outer ring features a 'brick' guilloche? pattern, faceted white gold hour markers, and a discreet minute track of 40 white gold beads applied by hand. The central part is crafted from deep blue Lapis Lazuli, whose gold-colored pyrite flecks inevitably evoke a starry sky. Their natural texture makes each dial unique. Lastly, indicating the passing seconds, the oversized subdial at 6 o'clock is in mother-of-pearl. The hours, minutes, and seconds are indicated by thin baton-style white gold hands. The ZENITH G.F.J. comes with three different straps: a dark blue alligator leather strap, a black calfskin leather strap, and a blue 'Saffiano' calfskin leather strap. The platinum pin buckle is engraved with the G.F.J initials and the brick pattern. It is also available upon request with a seven-row platinum bracelet, whose center links are embossed with the brick pattern. 'Few movements in watchmaking history have achieved the level of chronometric excellence and recognition as the calibre 135. More than just a technical achievement, it became a true icon of precision. Bringing it back for our 160th anniversary is about honoring this legacy while sharing it with a new generation of collectors. With the G.F.J., we have reimagined this legendary movement, not simply as a nod to the past, but as a way to share a defining part of its heritage while offering a contemporary interpretation that resonates with today's spirit, and we are deeply proud of it.' Benoît de Clerck, CEO of ZENITH WATCHES. Released in a limited edition of 160 pieces, the G.F.J is available for pre-order exclusively from the brand's physical and online boutiques, as well as through authorized retailers worldwide. 3 questions to Romain Marietta, CPO of ZENITH Watches *Following the exclusive edition released with Kari Voutilainen and Phillips in 2022, why did ZENITH decide to re-create this legendary calibre? We decided to bring back the legendary calibre 135 as a celebration of our 160th anniversary and pay tribute to our Maison's rich watchmaking heritage. The exclusive 2022 edition, developed with Kari Voutilainen and Phillips, reignited interest among collectors and enthusiasts, highlighting the historical significance of this calibre for ZENITH. Building on that enthusiasm, we wanted to bring back this emblematic movement, not simply as a nod to the past but as a way to share a defining part of its legacy while offering a contemporary interpretation that resonates with today's spirit. What modern upgrades does this new calibre incorporate? While remaining faithful to the spirit and character of the original, the new calibre has been thoughtfully re-engineered to meet contemporary expectations. It benefits from subtle yet meaningful improvements that enhance its reliability, precision, and overall performance without compromising its true essence. The result is a movement that seamlessly blends the charm of its historical roots with modern advancements, ensuring it remains relevant and captivating for today's discerning collectors. *What were the key principles behind the design of the G.F.J. watch? It was all about striking the right balance—staying true to the original design while bringing a sense of modern refinement. The inspiration came from the clean lines, balanced proportions, and understated sophistication of the 1950s. Every detail was carefully thought out, from the harmonious case design to the beautifully refined dial and movement finishing. The idea was to create a watch that honors Georges Favre-Jacot's vision and legacy while offering a fresh take that speaks to both vintage lovers and modern collectors. As a subtle nod to the Manufacture's iconic façade and Favre-Jacot's ambitious dream of bringing every stage of production under one roof—even down to making the very bricks that built his empire—the guilloche? dial is designed with a unique brick pattern, a tribute to that pioneering spirit. 3 questions to Laurence Bodenmann, Head of Heritage of ZENITH Watches ZENITH has an exceptional history with precision watchmaking and observatory trials. To what extent were these competitions essential for watchmakers at the time? Observatory trials were highly significant for watchmakers, serving as the ultimate test of a movement's precision and technical quality. These competitions were more than just a pursuit of accolades; they represented a benchmark of excellence, with results that enhanced a brand's reputation and credibility, and they were one of the two most important moments of the year along with the watch fairs. Success in observatory trials was seen as a mark of distinction, confirming a watchmaker's technical mastery in an era when mechanical precision was paramount. For ZENITH, taking part in these competitions was a natural extension of its commitment to accuracy and precision, reflected in its record-breaking number of 2,333 prizes. It was the path chosen by its founder, Georges Favre-Jacot, to prove the manufacturing system he pioneered in the world of Swiss watchmaking would produce more reliable, more perfect watches. This long-standing involvement not only pushed the brand to innovate but also reinforced its position as a master of precision. What place does the calibre 135 hold in ZENITH's long tradition of precision watchmaking? The calibre 135 holds a truly exceptional place in ZENITH's history and in the broader landscape of watchmaking. Developed specifically for observatory competitions (135-O), it became the most awarded movement during the golden age of chronometry trials, earning numerous first-place distinctions, including a remarkable series of five consecutive wins at the Neuchâtel Observatory from 1950 ZENITH | | Rue des Billodes 34-36 | CH-2400 Le Locle International Media Relations – Email : [email protected] to 1954. What sets it apart is its extra-large balance wheel, which brings more inertia and shapes its entire architecture in a way never seen before. That is what makes it an icon in the world of watchmaking! How did the historical context of the 1950s influence the design of ZENITH's chronometers of the time? The 1950s were a time of bold graphic exploration and innovation—designers were pushing boundaries, creating lines that felt both fresh and timeless. That same spirit is reflected in the vintage chronometer 135, where elegance comes through in the perfect balance of proportions and meticulous high-end finishing. The goal was always to create something that would stand the test of time, appealing across generations. In 2025, ZENITH is taking this idea even further, refining and modernizing this 'forever design' for the next generation. ZENITH: THE HEART OF WATCHMAKING Founded in 1865 in Le Locle, Switzerland, ZENITH has been at the forefront of Swiss watchmaking for over 160 years, driven by a pioneering spirit and a relentless pursuit of precision. As the first vertically integrated Swiss watch manufacture, ZENITH has continuously revolutionized horology by developing and manufacturing in-house movements, most notably the El Primero, the world's first automatic chronograph calibre launched in 1969, renowned for its unparalleled precision and high-frequency performance. ZENITH's timepieces celebrate its dedication to innovation and exceptional craftsmanship. The CHRONOMASTER collection highlights the brand's mastery of high-precision chronographs, the DEFY showcases technical innovation and bold design, while the PILOT collection celebrates ZENITH's storied aviation legacy with distinctive, adventure-ready timepieces. This unwavering commitment to precision has been recognized with an unparalleled 2,333 chronometry prizes, underscoring ZENITH's enduring legacy of excellence. The calibre 135, having won majority of those prizes went through a modern re-engineering integrating up-to-date technical solutions and materials. ZENITH decided to give it a new home in its newly introduced G.F.J collection. Throughout its history, ZENITH timepieces have accompanied pioneers who dared to dream big and achieve the extraordinary: from Louis Ble?riot's historic flight across the English Channel to Felix Baumgartner's record-breaking stratospheric free-fall jump. This daring spirit continues to drive the Maison as it redefines the future of Swiss watchmaking. Celebrating over a century and a half of excellence, innovation, and purpose, ZENITH remains at the forefront of Swiss horology, empowering those who challenge conventions and strive for greatness. From Le Locle to the world, from 1865 to now, ZENITH is the heart of watchmaking. G.F.J. Reference: 40.1865.0135/51.C200 Key points: Rebirth of the Legendary calibre 135. Chronometer Certified. Breguet Hairspring. Stop-second mechanism. Exclusive Edition for the 160th Anniversary of the Brand: Platinum case, lapis lazuli dial and special 'bricks' guilloche finishing on the movement. Movement: calibre 135 manual Frequency: 18,000 VpH (2.5 Hz) Power reserve: 72 hours Functions: Hours and minutes in the centre. Small seconds at 6 o'clock. Finishes: Exclusive 160th Bricks guilloché Price: 48'900 CHF / 52'900 Euros / 49'900 USD Material: Platinum 950 Water resistance: 5 ATM Case: 39.15mm / Thickness: 10.5 mm / Lug to lug: 45.75 mm Dial: Blue bricks guilloché on the outer ring, lapis lazuli in the center and mother-of-pearl small second counter Hour markers: 18-ct white gold applied indices Hands: 18-ct white gold faceted Bracelet & Buckle: Comes with 3 straps: Dark blue alligator leather strap with platinum pin buckle + black calfskin leather and blue 'Saffiano' calfskin leather. Optional for purchase: Platinum bracelet with double folding clasp
Forbes
26-03-2025
- Automotive
- Forbes
Louis Vuitton X Kari Voutilainen Team Up For A Special Edition
Louis Vuitton's commitment to independent watchmaking involves collaborating with some of the best of those independents. In its second partnership, the brand is introducing a five-piece limited edition of its Escale model in collaboration with Kari Voutilainen, an independent watchmaker with a workshop in Saint-Sulpice, Switzerland, acclaimed for his decoration and finishing techniques. The Escale collection was originally launched as a world time design, with a dial ring marked with 24 city locations and decorated with miniature hand-painted versions of the colorful blazons historically used to identify the owners of Louis Vuitton's iconic trunks. Escale means 'stopover,' in honor of Louis Vuitton's heritage as a maker of luxury travel trunks. The new LVKV-02 GMR 6 collaboration is a GMT, with a dial that tracks a second time zone on a 24-hour scale. The hour circle is decorated with miniature painting, which involved using 28 different colors, and took 32 hours for the painting and eight hours of firing in a kiln. It references the design of ancient stained-glass windows. The same motif is painted on the mainspring barrel cover Voutilainen's workshop handled the hand guilloche at the center of the dial and the sun and moon decoration on the day and night indicator on the second time zone subdial. It was hand engraved and then decorated in the Louis Vuitton colors of saffron and blue. On the dial, the LV logo is combined with the Voutilainen signature. The case is made of tantalum, with a platinum bezel, caseback, lugs, crown and buckle. The case, bezel and lugs are hand finished. The caseback is hand engraved 'Louis cruises with Kari.' Each of the five watches will be delivered in a bespoke Louis Vuitton travel trunk, hand-painted with a design that mirrors the decoration on the dial.
Yahoo
20-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Louis Vuitton Unveils Collaboration With Watchmaker Kari Voutilainen
PARIS — For its second collaboration with independent watchmakers, Louis Vuitton has unveiled Thursday a travel-inspired timepiece with Finnish-born, Switzerland-based Kari Voutilainen. 'Kari Voutilainen stands as one of the most prolific watchmakers of his era, and notably one of the pioneers of independent watchmaking,' said Jean Arnault, Louis Vuitton's director of watches. 'It is my hope that this timepiece will be recognized as a celebration of independent watchmaking that will make it possible to support the movement in the years to come.' More from WWD Shein, Chanel, Hermès Buck Apparel Market Slowdown Adriana Lima Stars in the Stephen Sprouse x Marc Jacobs Tote Bag Reissue Campaign With Fresh Pink Colorway NYX Professional Makeup Partners With 'A Minecraft Movie' for New Collection of Game-inspired Beauty Essentials Dubbed the LVKV-02 GMR 6, the watch is available in a limited run of five pieces, priced at 550,000 euros each. It is part of a five-year run of collaborations between the French brand and independent watchmaking labels. As with the model cosigned with Atelier Akrivia, proceeds of this watch's sale are earmarked to fund the biennial Louis Vuitton Watch Prize for Independent Creatives launched in 2023 and now on its second edition. Trained at the renowned Kelloseppakoulu watchmaking school in Finland, the master watchmaker moved to Switzerland in 1989, where he completed the WOSTEP complicated watch course at the International Watchmaking School. Spotted by Parmigiani Mesure et Art du Temps, he spent almost a decade restoring rare pieces and creating one-offs designs before a three-year stint teaching at the WOSTEP School of Watchmaking. In 2002, Voutilainen opened his eponymous workshop in Saint-Sulpice, Switzerland, the same year Louis Vuitton launched its inaugural Tambour watch. Over the years his work has since garnered a number of awards, including 11 gongs at the Grand Prix de l'Horlogerie de Genève, considered the Oscars of the watchmaking world. Voutilainen also serves as a member of the expert committee of the prize. Calling the endeavor 'a genuine collaboration that is remarkably coherent for both houses,' the master watchmaker said the timepiece 'embodies the identity of Louis Vuitton while also capturing the spirit of our workshop.' Based on Louis Vuitton's redesigned Escale launched in 2024, it features a case made of tantalum, a metal that is complex to utilize due to characteristics that include gold-like density and a high melting point, while the bezel, back, lugs, crown and strap buckle are made of platinum. Epitomizing the collaboration between the two watchmakers is the dial, which features the portemanteau 'LVoutilainen' moniker blending their names. Under gold Roman numerals is a striking multicolored hour circle that was hand-decorated by Maryna Bossy, a skilled artisan in the Métiers d'Art workshop of La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton. It required 28 different colors, 32 hours of painting and a total of eight hours of firing. Also taking pride of place on the center of the dial is the hand guilloché engraving by Voutilainen's workshop, in an intricate pattern nodding to the French house's Damier motif. They're also behind the sun and moon used on the day-and-night indicator, delicately engraved and then enameled, where stars turn out to be minute Monogram flowers. The case back is engraved with 'Louis cruises with Kari' while its sapphire gives a peek of the watch's manual self-winding movement based on Voutilainen's GMR 6 caliber. In a nod to Vuitton's travel heritage, it is a GMT complication with a day-night indicator and a power reserve indicator. The second timezone is indicated at 6 o'clock. A major feature of this movement is its innovative construction with two escapement wheels, which improves efficiency and gives it increased longevity, stability and a longer power reserve. It also has a unique balance-spring system, pairing a typical Philipps overcoil with the little-known Grossmann curve. Each watch comes in a bespoke Louis Vuitton travel trunk, bearing a hand-painted rendition of the dial and edition number on the front as well as the signatures of Voutilainen and Arnault inside. Best of WWD Watch Industry Tastemakers on Their Top 10 Timepieces and What Makes a Collectible Zenith Releases Two Timepieces Blancpain Expands Air Command Range
