Model: Louis Erard x Alain Silberstein “Le Regulateur”
Year: 2022
Limited Edition: 178 Pieces
Features:
The Makers. At its core, this is a classic Louis Erard regulator - a complication that sees the hour, minute and second hands banished to different sections of the dial. Said to have been invented for clarity, there’s certainly no risk of misreading the time once Alain Silberstein gets involved.
The Background. Silberstein, a trained architect, found himself involved in horology during the aftermath of the quartz “crisis”. As the industry scrambled to redefine its value, Silberstein noticed an opportunity to take design risks. Styling himself as the Architecte Horologer - a nod to his background - Silberstein took inspiration from the Memphis Group (not Bauhaus, as is commonly miscited) and the resulting primary coloured, geometric forms became his calling card.
The Closure. His approach might have been too avant-garde for the era, as his independent company ultimately closed its doors for good in 2012. But the man didn’t cease to exist. Over the last decade, brands like Franck Muller, Richard Mille, MB&F, Ressence and Konstantin Chaykin demonstrated there was renewed appetite for the truly unusual, resulting in Silberstein’s maverick spirit resurfacing through a new wave of collaborations.
The Collaborations. Louis Erard has worked with Silberstein on numerous occasions, but this marked a double first for the pair. It represents the first time Louis Erard ever gave carte blanche to a designer, and it was the first time Silberstein applied his signature look to a regulator complication. The results speak for themselves.
The Design. The three hands have been lacquered to a high-gloss, giving them a Jeff Koons-esque finish that aligns neatly with the aforementioned Memphis Group. They sweep above a silvery opaline dial that keeps the primary colours crisp and vibrant, without playing it too safe. Encasing everything is a Louis Erard Excellence case in bead blasted titanium, surrounded by openwork lugs. It’s a watch you could recognise at 1,000 feet.
Specifications:
Condition: In great condition overall. No marks of any significance. Presumably unworn.
Scope: Box and papers
Movement: Sellita SW266-1
Dimensions:
- Case Width: 40.0mm
- Lug to Lug: 46.8mm
- Case Thickness: 11.8mm
