New Watch! • 26 May 2022
Louis Erard Collaborates with Massena LAB
Le Régulateur has been the basis for many Louis Erard collaborations. In this latest co-production with Massena LAB, classic chronometry and fine watchmaking references are brought together in one affordable design.
Separate Displays, Better Legibility
Developed in the 17th century, regulator clocks were originally used as master clocks to offer the most accurate time available. The distinctive feature of a regulator display is the central sweeping minutes hand, with the hours and seconds on smaller subdials at 12 and 6 o’clock positions respectively. By reducing the number of times the hands overlap, it makes reading time clearer and easier.
Meeting of Histories
Le Régulateur Louis Erard x Massena LAB pays tribute to this rich history of the regulator dial and marine chronometry. This sophisticated dial is rich in details. Providing the setting in Le Régulateur, Louis Erard set the stage for Massena LAB to create a contemporary watch with the guiding principles of a 19th Century marine chronometer. The mix of codes, as a result, is a democratisation of a style usually reserved for discerning collectors.
First, the dial is made up of two levels: a lower plate with grained finish, that is plated in rhodium or 2N gold. On the upper plate, the outer minutes tracker flange and the two hours and seconds counter flanges are rhodium-plated with circular satin finish. The subdial centres are in silver-plated opaline, providing greater distinction.
The textural contrasts in the dial is only first part of the legibility enhancements. The domed sapphire crystal have anti-reflective treatment on both sides. The leaf-shaped hands made of blued steel stand out visually against the dial, further enhancing legibility.
Powering the watch is the automatic Sellita SW266-1 calibre. The meticulously decorated élaboré grade movement features a special openworked oscillating weight. The watch has 28 hours of power reserve and is water resistant up to 50m.
Le Régulateur Louis Erard x Massena LAB comes in two dial variations of rhodium and 2N gold plated lower plate. Each variation is a limited edition of 178 pieces.