Louis Vuitton Announces Second Edition of Its Prestigious Watch Prize for Independent Creatives

Louis Vuitton has announced the opening of applications for the second edition of its prestigious Louis Vuitton Watch Prize for Independent Creatives, reinforcing its commitment to supporting innovation in haute horology. Building on the success of its inaugural edition, which attracted over 1,000 applicants from 15 countries, this biennial prize continues the maison’s commitment to fostering the next generation of watchmaking talent.

Organized by La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton in Switzerland, the award celebrates the fusion of traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge innovation—defining traits of modern watchmaking. Open to independent watchmakers and entrepreneurs worldwide, the prize embodies Louis Vuitton's core values of creativity, savoir-faire, and independence, regardless of age, origin, or specialization.

"At Louis Vuitton, creativity and savoir-faire are at the heart of everything we do; two values we share with independent watchmakers," remarked Jean Arnault, Director of Louis Vuitton's Watch Division. "The first edition of the Louis Vuitton Watch Prize was a great success and demonstrated not only the House's genuine commitment to nurturing these exceptional talents, but also their ability to push the limits of horological craft. This prize offers a unique opportunity for these remarkable candidates to showcase their unique concepts and extraordinary creations."

The selection process remains rigorous, with applications initially reviewed by a dedicated team in collaboration with master watchmakers Enrico Barbasini and Michel Navas of La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton. Twenty semi-finalists will then be selected by an international committee of industry experts, including distributors, collectors, journalists, artists, artisans, designers, and watch enthusiasts. Selections will be based on five key criteria: Design and Aesthetics, Creativity and Audacity, Technical Innovation, Details and Finishing, and Complexity.

Timeline for the 2024-2026 edition:

The laureate will receive a €150,000 grant and participate in a year-long mentorship program at La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton, receiving guidance on communication, copyright law, marketing, and financial management.

Building on the success of the first edition, won by Swiss watchmaker Raúl Pagès for his RP1 - Régulateur à Détente timepiece, the prize continues Louis Vuitton’s tradition of championing talent. This commitment reflects the Maison’s journey in watchmaking, which began in 2002 with the iconic Tambour model.

Aspiring candidates can submit their projects through the dedicated prize website at louisvuittonwatchprize.com until April 15, 2025, marking the next chapter in Louis Vuitton's art of watchmaking.

The prize represents Louis Vuitton's ongoing dedication to preserving and evolving the craft of watchmaking, empowering a new generation of artisans to redefine the future of timekeeping.