Kazuo Maeda Heures Universelles

Japanese watchmaker Kazuo Maeda has presented the Heures Universelles wristwatch, a worldtimer model in the Art Deco style. Price US$28,800

Kyoto-based Japanese watchmaker Kazuo Maeda has recently presented the Heures Universelles wristwatch, a worldtimer model conceived as a tribute to the 'Heure Universelle' concept, invented by Genevan watchmaker Louis Cottier (1894-1966) in the 1930s.

The Kazuo Maeda Heures Universelles draws direct inspiration from the Art Deco era, as seen in the fonts used for the numerals and inscriptions. The time zones and cities remain true to the period when the original concept was introduced.

Protected by a magnifying flat top concave sapphire crystal, the dial features engraved indices along with blackened gold hands. 

The 38.5 mm x 10.18 mm round case is characterised by downward angular lugs and a large crown engraved with the brand's logo. The city names on the bezel are Grand Feu enameled.

For this model, Kazuo Maeda used a novel tantalum-tungsten alloy that ensures a unique sheen, exceptional durability and corrosion resistance. Water resistance is guaranteed to 30 metres / 100 feet.

Protected by a solid case back, the hand-wound movement of the Heures Universelles operates at a frequency of 3 Hz (21,600 vibrations per hour) with a 96-hour (4 days) power reserve.

Fitted with a black leather strap with a 19 mm lug width, the Kazuo Maeda Heures Universelles ref. KM000HU is a limited series of just 30 pieces, priced at US$28,800. kazuomaeda.com