Simon LeFrançois Unveils "Volumes" Watch, Blending Form and Function

Independent horology is experiencing a renaissance, with a diverse array of innovative timepieces emerging from both established and nascent workshops. Amidst this vibrant landscape, Simon LeFrançois, a Breton artisan, has unveiled his latest creation, "Volumes." This new watch is a conceptual successor to his successful Automatique No.1, pushing the boundaries of form and material to present a distinct aesthetic that highlights the maker's evolving skill and vision.

Working from his private workshop in Bretagne, Simon LeFrançois established his own label after two and a half decades in the industry. His inaugural piece, the Automatique No.1, quickly garnered attention and sold out rapidly. The new "Volumes" model retains LeFrançois's characteristic minimalist flair but ventures into fresh territories, showcasing an elevated level of his horological artistry.

The "Volumes" watch boasts a rectangular stainless steel enclosure, measuring 41mm in length, 32mm in width, and a mere 8.8mm in height. Its structure is enhanced by gracefully inclined sides, featuring a continuous central channel, intricately carved corners with polished interiors, and uniquely shaped lugs that subtly reference his previous work. A domed sapphire crystal protrudes slightly from the casing, complemented by another on the reverse side that offers a view into the intricate mechanics within. A 7mm wide, notched crown is discreetly nestled within its own recess on the right side of the case.

True to its designation, the dial of the "Volumes" timepiece is constructed in multiple layers. The foundation is a brushed silver surface, overlaid with two plates. Each plate supports a collection of blued, disc-shaped hour markers, adding another dimension of visual depth. The marker at the 12 o'clock position is polished, providing a subtle contrast, as are the tips of the otherwise blued steel hour and minute hands. Simple baton markers denote the 3 and 9 o'clock positions, introducing another geometric element. The subtly inscribed LeFrançois emblem at the top provides a refined finishing touch.

For the heart of the "Volumes" watch, Simon LeFrançois meticulously reengineers a Landeron chronograph base movement. He completely disassembles it, then reconstructs it with his bespoke bridges and plates. This process results in a movement that perfectly conforms to the contours of the casing. The back plate features a gentle, horizontal ridge, serving as a visual divide between two distinct finishing styles. This design evokes the rare phenomenon of two oceans meeting without merging. Broadly beveled apertures for the jewels and an extended, linear bridge over the balance wheel create an aesthetic that is both serene and captivating. The movement operates at a frequency of 18,000 vibrations per hour and offers a power reserve of 40 hours.

The Simon LeFrançois "Volumes" is presented with a dark blue calfskin leather strap, secured by a stainless steel pin buckle featuring a hand-engraved signature. For the current year, production is limited to three units, with plans to increase to five annually starting in 2027. The retail price is set at EUR 17,000, exclusive of VAT. This watch represents a significant step for the independent watchmaker, embodying a fusion of sculptural design and intricate mechanical artistry.