Announced: The Finalists For The Louis Vuitton Watch Prize For Independent Creatives 2025–2026
The Louis Vuitton Watch Prize for Independent Creatives is set to enter its final round in the spring of 2026, celebrating innovative watchmakers who defy traditional norms. The 2025–2026 edition attracted submissions globally, leading to the selection of 20 semifinalists evaluated by a panel of 65 industry experts based on five criteria: design, creativity, innovation, craftsmanship, and technical complexity. The winner will be announced on March 24, 2026, in Paris, receiving a €150,000 grant and a year of mentorship from experts at La Fabrique du Temps and Louis Vuitton. Among the finalists are five unique creations, each showcasing distinct craftsmanship and innovation. Daizoh Makihara's "Beauties of Nature" features an automatic petal mechanism and traditional Japanese techniques, while Xinyan Dai's "Möbius" introduces a compact bi-axis tourbillon. The "School Watch" by Hazemann & Monnin pays homage to traditional watchmaking, and Bernhard Lederer's "CIC 39 mm Racing Green" highlights a groundbreaking escapement. Lastly, Quiet Club's "Fading Hours" integrates a unique alarm system within a meticulously designed case. The jury, composed of esteemed experts, will have a challenging task in selecting a winner from such remarkable talent.
