Swiss watchmaker Elka Watch Co. has unveiled its new Tour des Chavannes collection, paying homage to Neuchâtel's rich horological history. The collection is inspired by a 14th-century tower that once stood in the city, featuring a historic clock that was destroyed in 1867. Elka's new watches aim to revive the heritage of this iconic landmark. The Tour des Chavannes collection is a testament to the brand's commitment to preserving Switzerland's horological legacy. By reinterpreting the past, Elka Watch Co. creates a unique timepiece that blends history with modern watchmaking techniques.
The Tour des Chavannes collection features two distinct editions: Pierre d'Hauterive and Édition 1736. Both watches boast a vintage-inspired design, with a 40.8mm stainless steel case and a 10.8mm thickness. The watches are equipped with a sapphire crystal, offering excellent readability and a luxurious feel. The case design is characterized by short, angular lugs and a slightly curved back, evoking a retro aesthetic. The watches are paired with either a cognac-colored suede leather strap or a black smooth calfskin strap, both with a 20mm width at the lugs and 18mm at the buckle.
The watches' dials are where the Tour des Chavannes collection truly reveals its historical significance. The Pierre d'Hauterive edition features a beige dial with black Roman numerals and matching hands, reminiscent of Neuchâtel's calcareous architecture. In contrast, the Édition 1736 boasts a black dial with rose gold Roman numerals and hands, paying tribute to the historic clock. The dials are adorned with inscriptions inspired by the work of engineer Henri Ladame and typography from Samuel Müller's 1736 clock face.
The Tour des Chavannes watches are powered by the La Joux-Perret G101 automatic movement, developed by Swiss motorist La Joux-Perret. This caliber offers a 68-hour power reserve, allowing the watch to run for several days without needing to be worn. The movement operates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour and features 24 rubies to minimize friction. The G101 movement is a compact and reliable caliber, making it an ideal choice for the Tour des Chavannes collection.
Elka Watch Co. has chosen to focus on the essential functions of timekeeping, displaying only hours and minutes on the dial. This decision reflects the brand's commitment to simplicity and elegance. The watches' transparent case back allows for a glimpse into the intricate mechanics of the La Joux-Perret G101 movement, showcasing the Côtes de Genève finishing.
The Tour des Chavannes collection is available in two editions, both priced at 1,716 Swiss francs (or 1,801 euros) excluding taxes. The watches can be purchased on Elka Watch Co.'s official website or at their boutique in Neuchâtel, located near the site that inspired the collection. This strategic location underscores the brand's connection to its heritage and its dedication to preserving Switzerland's horological legacy.
By launching the Tour des Chavannes collection, Elka Watch Co. demonstrates its passion for horological history and its commitment to creating timepieces that honor the past. The collection is a testament to the brand's expertise in watchmaking and its ability to craft unique, high-quality timepieces that appeal to collectors and connoisseurs alike.
Key points
- Elka Watch Co. introduces the Tour des Chavannes collection, inspired by Neuchâtel's 14th-century tower and historic clock.
- The collection features two editions, Pierre d'Hauterive and Édition 1736, with a 40.8mm stainless steel case and La Joux-Perret G101 automatic movement.
- The watches are priced at 1,716 Swiss francs (or 1,801 euros) and are available on Elka Watch Co.'s website and boutique in Neuchâtel.
