Louis Moinet ASTRONEF Limited Edition
A true marvel of contemporary mechanical watchmaking, Louis Moinet ASTRONEF combines ancestral know-how with futuristic technology.
The complex dial of the ASTRONEF watch is made from a plate measuring a total 0.6mm thick, from which 0.2 mm is then hollowed out to reveal the numerals and a rack, in order to create a depth effect facilitating readings. The ensuing deep black DLC treatment creates a striking contrast with the rhodium plating and endows it with a two-tone hue. Finally, a circular satin-brushed finish is applied to instill it with undeniable strength of character.
The case of ASTRONEF incorporates a sapphire container mounted on an 18K gold frame, open-worked lugs and case middle and a sapphire dome and its applied inner bezel ring.
The curved crystal reveals the ASTRONEF mechanism, which required more than three years of research. It proudly showcases two tourbillons rotating in opposite directions at high speed. They cross paths 18 times per hour (every 3 minutes and 20 seconds) and are built on two different levels. In all, six distinct elements are in motion: two satellite tourbillons rotating around the dial, as well as their two cages and their two counterweights.
This mysterious horological mechanism is hidden in the base of the frame, which is only 3.75 mm thick. The advantage of this construction is that it clears the stage to enhance the magic of the show being staged. The spectacular design linked to the complexity of the mechanism is marked by its control tower – or central column – which transmits the orders to the tourbillons and hands.
Finally, the mechanical part is ennobled by a powerful and modern engine that endows it with a very high level of performance, making it even more efficient than a single tourbillon.
The tourbillon cages are geometrically shaped. The weight of a cage is only 0.25 grams, in order to guarantee the correct speed through fine poising. Each cage rotates in 60 seconds and requires perfect poising, which also relies on an 18K gold counterweight weighing 0.4 grams.
Placing the selector on the back of the case enabled a gain in volume and this device plays two distinct roles: time-setting or winding. The crown is no longer pulled out; it is used to set the hands or to wind the mechanism.
The LM105 manual winding movement beats at the rate of 21,600 vibrations per hour (3 Hz) and provides a power reserve of up to 48 hours.
A presentation box is specially made for each Louis Moinet ASTRONEF. Finely crafted by an artisan, it notably features a straw marquetry motif in various shades and the buyer can choose from several different graphic design alternatives.
ASTRONEF is limited to only eight pieces.
Technical details
Model: Louis Moinet ASTRONEF Limited Edition
Movement
Calibre LM105
Manufacture Calibre with flying satellite double tourbillon
Manual winding
Double tourbillon for enhanced accuracy
Perfect rotation and poising of the rotating elements
– Five ball-bearing mechanisms with seven ceramic bearings
– One ball-bearing mechanism with nine ceramic bearings
Two barrels, each supplies its energy to the tourbillon
471components
Frequency: 3 Hz
Jewels: 56
Power reserve: 48 hours
Display
Hours and minutes
Case
18K rose gold frame, diameter: 43.5mm
Sapphire container, diameter: 41.6mm
Lug width: 24mm
Water resistance: 10 meters
Strap
Alligator strap with folding clasp
