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A New Dimension of Time: Voutilainen x Vuitton’s Horological Odyssey

The centerpiece of Louis Vuitton’s collaboration with master watchmaker Kari Voutilainen, the LVKV-02 GMR 6, embodies the essence of travel and watchmaking.

Por: Raquel Seijas
The LVKV-02 GMR 6 is an innovative design with a 40.5mm case crafted from tantalum, a rare and hypoallergenic metal known for its exceptional corrosion resistance and exclusivity / Photo Courtesy Louis Vuitton
The LVKV-02 GMR 6 is an innovative design with a 40.5mm case crafted from tantalum, a rare and hypoallergenic metal known for its exceptional corrosion resistance and exclusivity / Photo Courtesy Louis Vuitton

In a remarkable fusion of artistry and expertise, two iconic names in their respective fields have united to create an ultra-limited edition collection of just five exquisite timepieces: Louis Vuitton and master watchmaker Kari Voutilainen.

 

The LVKV-02 GMR 6 is the centerpiece of this collaboration, embodying the essence of travel and horology in a stunning GMT watch.

Voutilainen has earned 11 Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG) awards from 2007 to 2024, highlighting his status as a true artisan / Photo Courtesy Louis Vuitton
Voutilainen has earned 11 Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG) awards from 2007 to 2024, highlighting his status as a true artisan / Photo Courtesy Louis Vuitton

The Master Behind the Craft: Kari Voutilainen

Kari Voutilainen, born in Finland in 1962, is renowned for his outstanding contributions to watchmaking. He honed his craft at the prestigious Watchmakers of Switzerland Training and Educational Program in Neuchâtel before establishing his own workshop in Môtiers in 2002.

 

 Voutilainen is celebrated for his handmade creations, each one carefully tailored to individual preferences, showcasing personal qualities unique to each watch. His dedication to the art of watchmaking has earned him 11 Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG) awards from 2007 to 2024, highlighting his status as a true artisan.

The trunk features a design that beautifully mirrors the intricate decorations and architectural elements of the watch dial, adorned with the signature phrase “Louis cruises with Kari” / Photo Courtesy Louis Vuitton
The trunk features a design that beautifully mirrors the intricate decorations and architectural elements of the watch dial, adorned with the signature phrase “Louis cruises with Kari” / Photo Courtesy Louis Vuitton

The Allure of Tantalum

The LVKV-02 GMR 6 is an innovative design inspired by Louis Vuitton‘s latest Escale World Time Watch, presented in 2024. This masterpiece features a 40.5mm case crafted from tantalum, a rare and hypoallergenic metal known for its exceptional corrosion resistance and exclusivity.

 

Tantalum’s remarkable properties even extend to its usage in advanced technologies, such as the Mars Rover. The watch’s bezel, back, lugs, crown, and strap buckle are elegantly adorned in platinum, enhancing its luxurious appeal.

Intricate Detailing and Artistic Mastery

The white gold dial of the LVKV-02 GMR 6 is a breathtaking compilation of micro-painting, enameling, and engraving, meticulously handcrafted to perfection.

 

A standout feature is the diamond-polished hour scale, showcasing Roman numerals. This exquisite element, hand-decorated by artisan Maryna Bossy at La Fabrique des Arts, involves a micro-painting process utilizing 28 different colors and requiring a total of 32 hours of painting followed by eight hours of firing, creating a visual reminiscent of stunning stained glass windows.

Each LVKV-02 GMR 6 is delivered in a hand-painted Louis Vuitton travel trunk / Photo Courtesy Louis Vuitton
Each LVKV-02 GMR 6 is delivered in a hand-painted Louis Vuitton travel trunk / Photo Courtesy Louis Vuitton

Adding another layer of artistry, the center of the gold dial is adorned with intricate hand guilloché, a technique that involves meticulously removing material to create exquisite patterns.

 

This intricate work pays homage to Louis Vuitton’s iconic “Damier” motif and is executed using vintage machinery dating back to the 18th century, providing an authentic touch to this exclusive timepiece.

 

More stunning details? At 12 o’clock, the 65-hour power reserve indicator reveals the interconnected LV and Voutilainen logos. At 6 o’clock, there is the second time zone with a spectacular image of the sun and moon made by the Voutilainen workshop.

A Luxurious Presentation: The Exclusive Travel Trunk

Completing this extraordinary package, each LVKV-02 GMR 6 is delivered in a hand-painted Louis Vuitton travel trunk.

 

The trunk features a design that beautifully mirrors the intricate decorations and architectural elements of the watch dial, adorned with the signature phrase “Louis cruises with Kari”.

 

This bespoke trunk not only serves as a protective case but stands as a work of art that matches the watch’s elegance and craftsmanship.

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