After Maurice Lacroix had enjoyed a couple of years of success with its quartz-powered Aikon watch, the brand’s flagship sports watch was kitted out with an automatic movement following the Automatic Skeleton model earlier in 2018. The chronograph day-date watch and simpler three-handed date watch were both equipped with an integrated stainless steel case water-resistant to 200 metres, a six-arm bezel and a flat sapphire crystal front before the brand launched a bronze iteration. Now the brand unveils a titanium version, a first in its automatic collection, for a strong and sturdy but lightweight alternative.
The new Maurice Lacroix Aikon Automatic Chronograph Titanium features a blue and grey colour scheme for its dial. Echoing the 2018 steel chronograph version that we covered here, the new titanium Aikon features chronograph scales located in the familiar 12-6-9 layout, filled with a blue colour and enhanced by a polished thread. They stand out nicely against a gunmetal grey dial with a surface embossed with the squared pattern that has been sunray-brushed to pick up the light. The 30-minute counter resides at 12 o’clock, balanced by the 12-hour totaliser at 6 o’clock and a small seconds counter at 9 o’clock. On the opposite side, the day and date apertures are dressed against a light background to enhance legibility. Also, assisting with easy timekeeping in dark conditions, the hands have been treated with luminescent material.
The 44mm lightweight, satin-finished titanium case of the new Maurice Lacroix Aikon Automatic Chronograph promises other benefits compared to steel. Aesthetically, it is darker in colour, but is also highly resistant to abrasion and to corrosion, making it ideal for dives, especially when paired with its 200m water-resistance. The case is also sealed with a flat, anti-reflective sapphire crystal glass front. The six-armed detailing on the bezel of the watch has become an instantly recognisable characteristic of the Aikon watch, referencing Maurice Lacroix’s 1990s Calypso collection. The watch is also powered by Maurice Lacroix’s calibre ML112, based on a Sellita SW500 architecture.
To complete its sporty look, the new Maurice Lacroix Aikon Automatic Chronograph Titanium is worn on an integrated satin-finished titanium bracelet fitted with a folding clasp. It features the brand’s easy-change system. The watch will be priced at CHF 3,950. More details can be explored at www.mauricelacroix.com.