It’s fair to say the Aikon collection has been a huge success for Maurice Lacroix, and more and more variations are being introduced regularly. Shortly after the launch of the Aikon range, a bronze version was introduced with a quartz movement. This was followed by a bronze edition with mechanical movement a year later. Both limited editions, it was the first flirt by Maurice Lacroix with bronze. It was only natural to eventually be used in the Aikon Venturer, the brands sportier interpretation of the theme. New for 2021 is the Maurice Lacroix Aikon Venturer Bronze 43mm with anthracite colour scheme.
Similar to previous Aikon releases, the Venturer is inspired by the Maurice Lacroix Calypso collection from the 1990s. The Calypso also came as a diving instrument, which makes it a logical decision to add a modern interpretation of the concept to the Aikon family.
The strong rise of bronze as an alternative to steel and titanium hasn’t really slowed down much in recent years. More and more brands are embracing the material for its excellent aquatic properties, and the added appeal of unique patination. While the material isn’t new to Maurice Lacroix, with a bronze Venturer released just last year, the collection is expanded yet again.
Originally introduced with a green sunburst dial and a dark-brown ceramic bezel insert, the new one comes in a mix of black and bronze. While most remain the same, the bezel’s insert is now matched to the dial in tone. Still ceramic but executed in black with white markings, it contrasts sharply against the bronze case. The anthracite dial has been given a sunray-brushed finish. All the hands and applied hour markers are filled with Super-LumiNova. The printed text on the dial is now in bronze colour, coherent to the rest of the watch.
The 43mm diameter by 12mm thick case is made of a type of bronze that will gather a patina, but without oxidizing too much. Mechanically, this new anthracite take on the Aikon Venturer Bronze remains unchanged. The beating heart is the Calibre ML115, based on a Sellita SW200-1. It boasts 38 hours of power reserve and displays central hours, minutes and seconds, and a date at 3. This automatic movement is hidden from view by a closed caseback in steel, preventing any tarnishing of the skin.
Straps are easily changed from black rubber to anthracite leather thanks to the integrated EasyChange system, something that is available throughout the entire Aikon range.
Availability & Price
The Maurice Lacroix Aikon Venturer Bronze 43mm Anthracite is limited to 500 pieces and priced at CHF 2,490. More information at MauriceLacroix.com.
