Maurice Lacroix extends their Aikon Chronograph line with a play of cool blue and black. Introducing the Aikon Automatic Chronograph Sprint.
Press Release information with commentary in italics.
Commentary
The Aikon series was released in 2016, and it was quite the success, as it had the enviable combination of good looks, rugged construction at a modest price point The line is populated with base time only models, as well as more complicated watches featuring GMT and chronographs. And available in mid and large case sizes. Metal options are also offered – from the base steel to titanium, and even a model in bronze (Aikon Venturer Bronze). We covered the collection over the years, and in collaboration with Maurice Lacroix, we had a Giveaway of two Aikon Chronograph Quartz in 2017.
We remain fond of the series, recommending it as one of the entry level chronographs to start a collection. Our pick of the range was the flagship Maurice Lacroix Aikon Automatic Chronograph Skeleton. An excellent watch, which we admit is stretching the wallet of the budget conscious quite a bit, but is befitting of the flagship status. The Aikon Chronograph family is currently 15 strong, and available in the base steel model in multiple dial colour variations, as well as in titanium (also new). This latest model adds a DLC coating to the stainless steel case for the first time.
When we received the release information of this new Aikon Automatic Chronograph Sprint, we were very attracted to the cool vibes which came from the visuals – in particular the choice of the pale, pastel blue in contrast to the gunmetal grey/matte black of the rest of the case. The intent to showcase it as a sporty watch came across very well.
The series is a limited edition of 500 pieces.
Introducing the new: Maurice Lacroix Aikon Automatic Chronograph Sprint
Retail is EUR 3,3050 inclusive of VAT. Available on pre-order on the Maurice Lacroix website.
Prior to launching the inaugural AIKON models in 2016, Maurice Lacroix could never have envisaged how successful the model would become. The strong design codes along with the model’s high perceived value have proved a winning formula. Buoyed by the positive reaction of the press and public alike, the Swiss brand has never stopped conceiving fresh ideas and creating new versions of the AIKON. Today’s extensive AIKON collection encompasses different colours, complications and sizes.
The AIKON Automatic Chronograph Sprint plays with colours and textures, endowing the model with a very different appearance to its siblings. However, die-hard fans of the AIKON can relax, this new model still features the AIKON’s distinctive six arms straddling the bezel, the M-logo on its strap and the model’s urban styling. Put simply, the new model is fresh and sporty but respects the legend.
For the first time, the AIKON is presented in a 44mm stainless steel case dressed in matte black DLC. This coating was selected for its impressive wear characteristics and chemical resistance. In contrast, the six arms spanning the bezel are delivered in a gleaming gunmetal finish. By juxtaposing different colours and textures, the AIKON Automatic Chronograph Sprint exhibits a sumptuous appearance.
Also presented in gunmetal grey, the surface of the dial is sunray-brushed and embossed with a square pattern. The facetted hour and minute hands are lined with Super -LumiNova, aiding legibility in dim light. They converse with the indexes, once again, presented in gunmetal grey . Black counters are positioned at 6 and 12 o’clock and combine opaline and snailed detail. The dial incorporates a refreshing splash of colour with the small seconds indication at 9 o’clock presented in a light shade of blue. The addition of the snailed detail results in the subdial appearing metallic, readily gleaming with the mere suggestion of light. Lastly, the central chronograph seconds hand is also presented in blue, further enlivening the appearance of the display.
The AIKON Automatic Chronograph Sprint upholds the AIKON’s reputation for ergonomic design, delivering impressive levels of wearer comfor t. The watch is presented on a light blue strap made of FKM rubber, a first for the AIKON. This par ticular grade of rubber delivers superior flexibility to regular rubber, augmenting wearer comfort. In addition, FKM rubber offers greater wear -resistance and the colour is less susceptible to fading. The strap incorporates the company’s ‘M’ logo and is paired with a sandblasted black DLC pin buckle.
Consistent with traditional Swiss watchmaking, the movement is embellished with circular graining and incorporates vertical Côtes de Genève motif on the bridges and rotor.
The AIKON Automatic Chronograph Sprint can record important events when required, providing Sprint individuals with the means to hone their times and move ever closer to their intended goals. The AIKON Automatic Chronograph Sprint, refreshingly different while reassuringly the same.
