August 19 2025

Louis Erard Gravée Main: The Art Of Hand Engraving

MRSTATELESS LOUIS ERARD, NEW RELEASES 2025, Lacquer Dial, Limited Edition, Small Seconds 0

Louis Erard continues its mission of bringing traditional craftsmanship to contemporary watchmaking with the introduction of the Gravée Main. This limited edition series highlights the centuries-old art of hand engraving, offering collectors a timepiece where no two watches are alike.

Hand-Engraved Casework

The Gravée Main distinguishes itself through the work of Ukrainian engraver Maksym Shavlak, who dedicates over fifty hours to each watch. Using steel—a material notably more demanding to engrave than gold—Shavlak creates intricate floral baroque motifs inspired by 18th-century clocks and pocket watches. Every component of the case, from the bezel and lugs to the crown and buckle, is engraved by hand, ensuring that each of the 99 pieces produced carries its own identity.

Case and Dimensions

The watch is housed in a 42 mm polished stainless steel case, with a thickness of 12.25 mm and a lug-to-lug measurement of 49.90 mm. A domed sapphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment on both sides protects the dial, while the watch maintains 50 metres of water resistance.

A Refined Dial

In contrast to the elaborate case, the dial design is understated. Finished in black lacquer with anthracite engravings, it features Roman numerals and pear-shaped rhodium-plated hands for a classical touch. A small seconds subdial at six o’clock completes the layout, keeping the focus on legibility while allowing the hand engraving to take centre stage.

Movement

Powering the Gravée Main is the Sellita SW261-1 automatic movement, beating at 28,800 vibrations per hour and offering a 38-hour power reserve. The elaboré-grade calibre is decorated with an openworked oscillating weight, finished with a black lacquered Louis Erard emblem, visible through the sapphire caseback.

Strap and Buckle

The timepiece is fitted with a black grained calfskin strap with matching stitching. Quick-release spring bars allow for easy strap changes, though the hand-engraved steel pin buckle makes the strap an integral part of the overall design.

Availability and Price

The Louis Erard Gravée Main is limited to 99 unique pieces, each individually hand-engraved. The watch is priced at CHF 5,450 plus taxes.