Louis Vuitton Escale "Cabinet of Wonders" Watches: A Masterpiece of Art and Horology

The Louis Vuitton Escale collection introduces the captivating "Cabinet of Wonders" trio of watches, designed to be much more than mere timepieces. These watches are true works of art, incorporating a range of métiers d'art techniques to create stunning three-dimensional dials.

 

Taking inspiration from Gaston-Louis Vuitton's collection of ornate Japanese sword guards, the Koi's Garden, Snake's Jungle, and Dragon's Cloud watches pay homage to the influential figure who shaped the brand. Each watch features Gaston-Louis Vuitton's initials on the dial, serving as a testament to his enduring legacy.

 

Photo Source: Robb Report

Let's dive into the exquisite details of each watch.

 

The Koi's Garden watch features intricately hand-sculpted carp swimming in a stream, surrounded by an array of vibrant pebbles. The carp, crafted from white gold, is meticulously engraved with scales, fins, and whiskers, ensuring a lifelike appearance. The fish are then oxidized, polished, and painted with translucent blue lacquer. The pebbles, representing sunlight dancing on water, are crafted using smoky quartz, rock crystal, and diamonds. The white gold dial plate is skillfully hand-engraved with undulating lines symbolizing the flowing water. Notably, Gaston-Louis Vuitton's monogram is sculpted from gold and adorned with onyx.

 

Photo Source: Monochrome Watches

The Snake's Jungle watch showcases a striking serpent in a bamboo forest. The forest is brought to life through the meticulous technique of marquetry, where over 300 individual pieces of wood, parchment, and straw are intricately inlaid by hand. The serpent itself is a masterpiece of micro-sculpting, engraving, and champlevé enameling. Its body exhibits finely engraved coils and hollowed-out scales, with additional intricate Vuitton monogram flowers adorning its form. The bamboo leaves, also sculpted, engraved, and enameled, add an extra dimension to the mesmerizing scene. The 18k white gold bezel elegantly complements the design with a hand-engraved leaf motif.

 

Photo Source: The Watch Pages

In the Dragon's Cloud watch, a majestic dragon reigns supreme over a backdrop created using the intricate technique of damascening. The dial plate undergoes delicate hammering to achieve a matte finish, with grooves precisely cut to receive yellow-gold and rose-gold wires. These wires, meticulously cold-worked and shaped, lend the dial its layered appearance. The dragon's scales are expertly enameled, while the lower half of its body showcases the artistry of paillonné enamel adorned with a floral monogram. Additionally, the dial includes rose-gold Monogram flowers and a captivating ruby cabochon for the dragon's eye.

 

Photo Source: Robb Report

To complement these breathtaking works of art, each watch comes with a hand-braided calf-leather strap, drawing inspiration from the braided leather hilts of Japanese katana swords. Furthermore, the 40mm cases are engraved with variations of the traditional Japanese ocean motif called "Seigaiha," symbolizing good fortune and well-being. This motif is also featured on the movement's bridges. The crown of each watch is set with the same stone as the corresponding GLV monogram on the dial.

 

Limited to just 20 pieces per model, the "Cabinet of Wonders" watches truly encapsulate the fusion of art and horology. Each watch exemplifies Louis Vuitton's commitment to unparalleled craftsmanship, elevating them to the status of rare and treasured collectibles. Prices for these remarkable timepieces are available upon request, further affirming their exclusive nature.