Louis Moinet Speed of Sound

Quick specs Louis Moinet Speed of Sound
Price: $ 120,000 | € 114,000 | £ 98,000 | CHF 128,000
Size: 40.7 millimeters
Reference: LM-130.20.50 – limited to 20 pieces

The Louis Moinet Speed of Sound commemorates the 20^th anniversary of Les Ateliers Louis Moinet with a limited edition that blends heritage mechanics with contemporary artistry. With only 20 pieces crafted, it showcases advanced horological innovations and serves as a collector’s piece celebrating the Valjoux 88 movement.

The Speed of Sound is rooted in the Valjoux 88, a hand-wound chronograph movement first produced in the 1940s. Revered for its precision, the Valjoux 88 was a hallmark of Swiss watchmaking. Louis Moinet’s master watchmakers modernized this iconic caliber while preserving its core mechanics.

Design details: materials and dial features

This Speed of Sound features a 40.7-millimeter case made from grade 5 titanium, here with a polished and satin-brushed finish. The dial combines deep black with red gold accents, producing a striking visual contrast.

At the flange is a telemeter scale to measure distances by using the “speed of sound”. Start the chronograph when lightning strikes in case of a thunderstorm and stop it when you hear the thunder. Now you know how far away the storm is.

Guilloché dial by Yann von Kaenel

Another standout feature is the guilloché pattern on the dial, created using traditional techniques by Yann von Kaenel. He is an independent Swiss guilloché craftsman. The design interacts dynamically with light, creating a sense of movement and energy.

Chronograph counters and the small seconds sub dial incorporate slices of the Aletai iron meteorite, adding texture and historical intrigue. But here is even more meteorite.

Special moon phase indicator

The hour and minute hands are skeletonized and faceted, featuring luminescent material for easy readability. The Louis Moinet Speed of Sound offers functions including a chronograph, small seconds, and a 30-minute counter.

The moon phase display reinterprets a classic complication. It features a domed disc with a luminescent lunar motif and a fragment of the Dhofar 457 lunar meteorite. This hand-applied detail adds depth and connection to the cosmos. Two indicators at 3 and 9 o’clock align with the meteorite fragment to display the moon’s phase.

Movement: revisiting the Valjoux caliber 88

A revisited hand-wound Valjoux caliber 88 powers the Speed of Sound. Originally designed in the mid-20th century and known as the Valjoux Cal. 88 VZHCL (“Valjoux Counter Heures Calendrier Lune”). Apart from a chronograph, the original also sports a triple calendar and a moon phase. However, the triple calendar is absent after the revisit. The movement offers a 40-hour power reserve.

This revisited version by Louis Moinet has intricate engraving visible through the transparent case back. The decorative engraving includes floral and scroll motifs, showcasing the artistry of hand-finishing techniques. Just check the photo of the back, you might want to wear it flipped for it.

Pricing of the Speed of Sound chronograph

The Louis Moinet Speed of Sound is priced around 100 to 130k, which comes close to Patek Philippe and Audemars Piguet models, sometimes with a meteorite dial as well. Here the Speed of Sound’s use of a historic movement sets it apart.

Does this justify the price? Not really. Yes, it’s a limited edition, the used materials are high-end, including the revisited movement. The pieces of meteorite add some extra spice, the looks are great, and the special dial is cool, but it is not fully in line with its competitors.