Louis Vuitton Expands Independent Watchmaking Initiative with Second Prize Edition
January 26, 2025
Louis Vuitton has unveiled the expert committee for the second edition of its Watch Prize for Independent Creatives. Launched in 2022, the initiative embodies the Maison's spirit of boldness, craftsmanship, creativity, technical mastery, and innovation, continuing LVMH Group's tradition of celebrating talent and honoring visionary creators.
The expert committee brings together watch enthusiasts from around the world, including craftsmen, industry representatives, journalists, collectors, artists, and designers who share a passion for watchmaking. Notable members include Philippe Dufour, Kari Voutilainen, Frank Gehry, Marc Newson, Ben Clymer of Hodinkee, Danny Govberg of The 1916 Company, Olympic gold medalist Antoine Dupont, Master Perfumer Jacques Cavallier-Belletrud, and Head Pastry Chef Maxime Frédéric of Cheval Blanc Paris.
"Following the success of the first Louis Vuitton Watch Prize in February 2024, we are eager to discover how independent watchmakers will explore new horizons of creativity to redefine the contours of our industry," said Jean Arnault, Director of Louis Vuitton's Watch Division.
The evaluation process will begin with an independent international commission selecting twenty semi-finalists. The Expert Committee will then evaluate these candidates based on five criteria: Design and Aesthetics, Creativity, Technical Innovation, Complexity and Complications, Details and Finishing to select five finalists. The experts will also elect five representatives from among their members to form the final jury, who will interview the finalists during the Paris award ceremony.
The winner, to be announced at a ceremony in Paris in 2026, will receive €150,000 and a year of customized mentorship at La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton. A dedicated team will provide expertise in communications, legal matters, marketing, industrial strategy, and financial brand management.
Applications remain open until April 15, 2025, at louisvuittonwatchprize.com.
