Portuguese artist Bernardo d’Orey builds each Louis Erard Marqueterie de Paille dial by hand from rye straw, in around 12 hours of work spread over several days.
Louis Erard today introduces the Marqueterie de Paille, limited to 25 pieces. It joins the brand’s Métiers d’Art watches, which aim to stay faithful to the artisan’s work while making it accessible to more collectors.
The abstract “Broken Ice” composition, in layered shades of blue, is built from 28 sections. Each differs in shape, size and fibre direction, so the dial changes as the watch moves. The artist works to tolerances below 0.1mm, in short sessions, with no room for correction, and because straw is natural, no two dials are identical. The polished steel case measures 39mm across.
“At first, you admire the dial. Only later do you begin to understand the craft behind it,” says Manuel Emch, who leads Louis Erard. Straw, cut and laid by hand, becomes the one part of the watch that no machine could repeat.
The Basics
Brand: Louis Erard
Model: Marqueterie de Paille
Reference: 34248AA45.BVA158
Diameter: 39mm
Thickness: 12.82mm
Case material: Polished stainless steel; 45.90mm lug to lug; domed sapphire crystal; transparent black case back
Dial: Straw marquetry by Bernardo d’Orey; abstract “Broken Ice” composition in layered shades of blue; 28 sections
Water resistance: 5 bars (50m/165ft)
Strap: Beige grained calf leather, black calf leather lining, polished stainless steel pin buckle, quick-release spring bars
Limited edition: 25 pieces
The Movement
Calibre: Sellita SW261-1, élaboré grade
Functions: Hours, minutes
Winding: Automatic
Power reserve: Approx. 38 hours
Frequency: 28,800 VpH (4Hz)
Jewels: 31
Images courtesy of Louis Erard.