Louis Moinet Speed of Sound: 20th Anniversary Edition with rare lunar meteorite

Louis Moinet launched the new Speed of Sound chronograph, produced in a limited series of 20 pieces powered by a Valjoux 88 calibre. Price CHF50,000

Celebrating the twentieth anniversary of Les Ateliers Louis Moinet, the new Speed of Sound model is an exclusive chronograph with moon phases, produced in a limited series of just twenty pieces.

The watch is powered by the historic Valjoux 88 calibre, originally produced in the 1940s. Operating at 18,000 vibrations per hour (2.5 Hz) with a 40-hour power reserve, this hand-wound chronograph also features a moon-phase complication. Louis Moinet reinterpreted the calibre by opting for a cleaner display, omitting the date markers.

The deep black of the guilloché dial is enhanced by the warm hues of red gold.

The 30-minute chronograph counter at 3 o'clock and the small seconds dial at 9 o'clock feature Aletai iron meteorite, reinforcing the watch's astronomical theme.

At 6 o'clock, a large, slightly domed disc displays a hand-drawn lunar motif using luminescent paint, recalling the glow of the moon on a clear night. 

A fragment of the Dhofar 457, a rare lunar meteorite coming from a lunar crater, symbolises the full moon. The moon is considered full when this fragment aligns with one of the two pointers, indicating the moon's current phase.

Encircling the dial, a telemeter scale can be used to measure distances by using the speed of sound. In the case of a thunderstorm, for example, when lightning strikes, you start the chronograph and stop it when you hear the thunder.

The Speed of Sound is housed in a 40.7 mm Grade 5 titanium case with large pump-style push-pieces and openworked lugs (the lug width is 22 mm). 

The total thickness is 18.7 mm, including the panoramic domed sapphire crystal. Water resistance is ensured up to 3 bar (30 metres / 100 feet).

The transparent case back of the watch reveals the outstanding engraving of the movement, a traditional motif with floral curves and delicate scrolls reminiscent of lace, all performed by hand. 

The Louis Moinet Speed of Sound Limited Edition, ref. LM-130.20.50, has a retail price of CHF 50,000. louismoinet.com