For watch aficionados, Laurent Ferrier’s career trajectory reads like a dream.
With significant contributions to iconic pieces like the Patek Philippe Nautilus, he embarked on an impressive journey of crafting fine watches under his own label.
Beyond horology, Ferrier also had a remarkable stint in motorsport, famously clinching podium finishes at Le Mans twice.
While his backstory is indeed fascinating, it’s his collection of timepieces that truly captivates enthusiasts.
Each piece reflects a rich tapestry of innovation and artistry, from the stunning Tourbillon Double Spiral to his groundbreaking natural escapement.
The latest gem to join this illustrious lineup is the Laurent Ferrier Classic Moon, which refines and reinterprets Ferrier’s celebrated style.
A MEANINGFUL EVOLUTION
The Classic Moon emerges as a refined progression from the 2017 Galet Micro Rotor Montre École.
This journey has seen Ferrier create increasingly complex dial mechanisms, all the while preserving the signature bassiné case shape that embodies his early training.
Among his notable collections, the Galet Annual Calendar Montre École shines brightly, winning the Men’s Complication award at the 2018 Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG).
Competing with esteemed pieces like the Krayon Everywhere Horizon and Ludovic Ballouard’s Green Line, Ferrier’s creation stood out for its unique design.
With sleek, inline indicators for the day and month and a graceful pointer date that sweeps across the face, this contemporary marvel draws clear inspiration from 1940s aesthetics.
As we explore the Classic Moon, we see a delightful fusion of nostalgia and modernism.
The interaction of blue and red against a bright background brings to mind the 2017 model while boldly integrating contemporary design elements.
The new moonphase sub-dial marks a departure from the previous sector dial motif, providing ample space for every dial feature.
Ferrier has subtly enlarged the elegant Roman numerals at 3, 9, and 12, possibly nodding to its predecessor’s sector design.
CAPTURING ESSENCE THROUGH DESIGN
The aesthetic allure of the Classic Moon encapsulates the core of Laurent Ferrier’s design philosophy.
It presents a vivid showcase for anyone wishing to grasp the brand’s visual identity without digging into intricate specifics.
However, the charm goes deeper, especially with the moonphase complication that adds an enchanting twist.
Notably, the Classic Moon marks Ferrier’s first foray into moonphase watches, highlighting a lesser-known feature of the brand: the clever use of luminescence.
The moonphase disc, crafted from engraved aventurine glass, boasts hand-painted lumed stars and moons, all elegantly covered by a clear enamel layer, accurately reflecting the lunar phases.
The day and month displays sit beautifully above the pinion, framed by a faceted window that echoes the Sport Auto series’ aesthetic.
Completing the timepiece, the “assegai” hands—named after a traditional African spear—are amongst the finest shapes out there.
In this iteration, the signature polish gives way to a matte finish, introducing a unique character to the Classic Moon Blue.
EXTRAORDINARY CRAFTSMANSHIP ON DISPLAY
Many enthusiasts are eager to learn about the movement powering this exquisite piece.
The LF126.02 movement exhibits similarities with pre-existing annual calendar models but is enhanced with over 30 new components to cater to the additional complexity.
Furthermore, more than 20 components have been carefully reconfigured, without compromising the remarkable performance.
The movement operates at 3Hz and boasts an 80-hour power reserve thanks to its classic Swiss lever escapement.
While the specifications provide a glimpse into the watch’s internal workings, the artistry found in its decoration deserves just as much attention.
Laurent Ferrier’s manually wound movements feature substantial bridges that capture the eye with their luxurious côtes de Genève finish.
A noteworthy detail is the elegantly arched, polished click positioned at the upper section of the movement, creating a pleasing sound during winding.
The meticulous bevelling of all bridges, even those less visible, is particularly impressive, showcasing a sharp exterior angle at the lower corner of the power reserve indicator.
In the Classic Moon, Laurent Ferrier not only celebrates his heritage but also invites us to appreciate a future filled with innovation.
Source: Timeandtidewatches