Louis Vuitton is pleased to present the Tambour Bushido Automata, the third in a series of creations from La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton, the Maison's watchmaking atelier, which continues to push the boundaries of high watchmaking savoir-faire and métiers d'art (artistic craftsmanship).
©Ulysse Frechelin
A celebration of ancestral culture, art and craftsmanship, told through the changing expressions of its mechanical movement on the dial, the Tambour Automata story began in Europe in 2021 with the Tambour Carpe Diem Automata. Featuring a striking realistic skull and snake motif, this 21st-century automaton timepiece offers a poetic yet subversive interpretation of vanitas symbolism. Following that creation, which won the prestigious Audacity Prize at the Grand Prix de la Horlogerie de Genève, two years later, La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton introduced the Tambour Opera Automata. The piece, inspired by the captivating Sichuan opera "Changing Face," features a series of colorful masks that change instantly.
©Piotr Stoklosa
Now, the Maison journeys to Japan—the rich and fascinating world of the ancient samurai. As a prestigious warrior class in pre-modern Japan, samurai embodied deeply rooted values of strength, discipline, loyalty, and duty through a complex moral code known as bushido. Central to the samurai way of life, bushido is deeply rooted in values and honor as well as artistic expression, and has shaped Japanese society for centuries. A key component of this code is the mask, an essential part of the samurai's armor. Designed to convey strength and courage in the face of adversity, the mask exudes both power and menace through its shifting facial expressions, while making an aesthetic and symbolic statement.
©Piotr Stoklosa
An Extraordinary Complication
Paying homage to Japanese art, culture and history, the Tambour Bushido Automata is a spectacular expression of the Bushido spirit through an imaginative 16-second spectacle of watchmaking. Equipped with a manual-winding movement, Caliber LV 525, this piece is brought to life by the most exceptional Métiers d'Art (artistic craftsmanship) developed by La Fabrique du Temps' in-house craftsmanship studio, La Fabrique des Arts.
©Piotr Stoklosa
With 426 components, two patented technologies and a total of 180 hours of movement assembly, the Caliber LV 525 is the same base movement used in the award-winning Tambour Carpe ·Diem Automata. Developed by La Fabrique du Temps' master watchmakers Michel Navas and Enrico Barbasini, the Tambour Bushido Automata displays the time on demand, with five animations integrated into the dial, bringing captivating changes to the samurai's mask. Set against a shimmering golden backdrop, the expressionless samurai stands silently, setting the stage for the story. At the press of a button, the automaton mechanism is activated, and the iconic supernatural creature, a yokai, rises and moves to the side, revealing the jumping hours engraved on the armor's forehead. At the same time, a slim sword motif glides to display the retrograde minutes.
©Piotr Stoklosa
A few seconds later, the Tambour continues its mesmerizing mechanical puppet show, while the hours and minutes remain unchanged. The samurai's expressionless, confident face becomes more powerful and determined. His calm eyes give way to a stern gaze of determination and strength. A complication magically moves one of his eyes, transforming it from a Monogram Flower to a Monogram Starflower. Meanwhile, the samurai's strength is captured in his chin as well. The jaw drops and the mouth opens to reveal the word "Bushido" in vibrant crimson Japanese characters between rows of hand-crafted mother-of-pearl teeth before the mouth closes tightly again.
©Ulysse Frechelin
The background of the dial is also richly decorated. At 9 o'clock, a bright red sun rises from the peak of Mount Fuji, its position indicating the remaining power reserve of the automaton's 100-hour power reserve.
A Precious Celebration of Japanese Art
This masterpiece is further enhanced by its captivating dial, which combines symbolism and artistry in its movement and pays homage to Japan's rich history and culture. As with its predecessors, the Tambour Bushido Automata offered La Fabrique des Arts an opportunity to truly push the boundaries of watchmaking techniques. Particularly in the area of enameling, endless possibilities were explored and innovative new techniques were developed by combining the traditional techniques of engraving and enameling.
©Piotr Stoklosa
Each element of the dial encouraged our artisans to truly experiment and innovate with their skills, transforming the Tambour Bushido Automata into a canvas of exquisite expression. The result is a dial full of detail, three-dimensionality and intrigue, while capturing the unique emotion and dynamism of the samurai. For example, the helmet is a piece of armor used to protect the head, but it is also a symbol of the samurai's individual identity and status. Master engraver Dick Steenman and his team brought this symbolism to life. The rose gold helmet is first engraved and then fired at high temperatures using the calamine technique. This creates a thin layer of charcoal with a burnt finish. It is then hand-finished to allow the underlying gold to shine through.
©Piotr Stoklosa
Similar contrasts of light and shadow can also be seen in the samurai's face protector, a part of the helmet that symbolizes strength and power. Sculpted in white gold using the relief technique, the menho is meticulously crafted, showcasing realistic details and contours. The yokai (ghost) at the center of the helmet is also meticulously engraved in rose gold. The ruby-eyed supernatural creature is imbued with life and vitality, thanks to the three-dimensionality and perspective that only an engraver can achieve.
Other intricate engravings include the knots in the string, the blade and hilt, the automaton's push-pieces, and the crown. The case back is also full of life, capturing the play of light. Echoing the story unfolding on the dial, the red lacquered apparitions showcase the high level of craftsmanship alongside traditional watchmaking decorative elements such as circular graining and Côtes de Genève finishing. A total of 140 hours were spent engraving the dial, push-pieces, and crown of the Tambour Bushido Automata.
A Tale of New Techniques
In parallel with the art of engraving, innovative enameling techniques were developed. La Fabrique des Arts boldly experimented with new techniques and innovations, ultimately completing this piece after approximately 120 hours of work. Craftsmen took on the challenge of further refining their skills, drawing on the know-how they had gained from the Tambour Carpe Diem Automata and Tambour Opera Automata. They succeeded in developing ultra-thin processing techniques to achieve an extremely thin surface while maintaining the vivid colors and three-dimensional effect.
©Ulysse Frechelin
Take for example the delicately shimmering golden background of the dial. Using the paillonné enamel technique, silver foil is applied to a base layer of pink enamel, and then two layers of clear enamel are applied on top to give the dial a golden hue. This creates delicate details and colour gradations, particularly in the foothills of the mountains. Finally, a thin layer of fondant enamel is applied to create a lustrous, shiny finish.
©Piotr Stoklosa
Mount Fuji is also crafted using the cloisonné enamel technique, with multiple layers of white enamel representing snow layered within the gold filigree outline, creating a striking, three-dimensional effect and a powerful finish. The surface itself is a masterpiece, combining numerous artistic handicrafts and savoir-faire. First, Dick Steenman engraved the piece, followed by two layers of red enamel, one of the most challenging colors to work with. The enameller's years of expertise and experience were essential to achieve the right tone and shading of the enamel while emphasizing the sculptural design underlying the surface. A specially applied enamel layer was then applied, achieving a refined, almost matte, antique look.
©Piotr Stoklosa
The mask's eyes, meanwhile, feature a design combining cloisonné enamel on the outer edges and paillonné enamel and fine gold flakes in the center. A final layer of blue enamel gives the eyes a powerful glow, expressing a rich range of emotion. The shikoro, part of the helmet worn to protect the samurai's neck, is dotted with Monogram ·flower motifs, a reference to Louis ·Vuitton's codes. Finished with a special combination of jet black and crimson enamel, this technique and color scheme is also reflected inside the samurai's mouth.
©Ulysse Frechelin
The dial of the Tambour Bushido Automata is meticulously crafted, with no element overlooked or left to chance. Even the knots on the laces are first engraved by Dick Steenman's team, before being subjected to a process combining enameling and other miniature enamel techniques with multiple firing processes to achieve a velvet-like texture. The captivatingly finished dial, with its multi-layered three-dimensional structure, demonstrates La Fabrique des Arts' extraordinary commitment to pushing the boundaries of centuries-old watchmaking craftsmanship and savoir-faire, building on the expertise of the Métiers d'Art (artistic handicrafts) cultivated through the Tambour Carpe Dième Automata and Tambour Opera Automata.
A Work of Art Surrounds the Case
Embodying the pinnacle of La Fabrique des Arts craftsmanship and further capturing Louis Vuitton's spirit of adventure, the Tambour case is the first in the Louis Vuitton watchmaking collection to feature fully engraved and enameled case and bezel. Depicting a samurai traveling through Japan and a crimson sun setting behind Mount Fuji, the Monogram Flower motif is set against a red enamel background, enveloping the entire case. First, hundreds of tiny indentations are hammered into the case, and then translucent red enamel is applied. During the high-temperature firing process, the enamel penetrates the tiny holes, creating a beautiful grain effect. This process requires 200 hours of labor and carries the risk of cracking.
©Ulysse Frechelin
A delicately engraved pink gold bezel surrounds this stunning scene. The delicate lines and cloud patterns gently enveloping the letters "LOUIS VUITTON" sparkle in the light. Crafted by the same engravers and enamellers who created the dial, each and every bezel is unique. With the artistic delicacy and nuance that only the human hand can achieve, this bezel completes the story of the Tambour Bushido Automata. This watch truly embodies a true feat of watchmaking and aesthetics. Imaginative, emotional and uniquely Louis Vuitton, this creation further highlights the Maison's bold and adventurous spirit as it continues its adventures with the Tambour Automata.
©LOUIS VUITTON
"Tambour Bushido Automata"
W1PG31
Movement
- Caliber LV 525: Hand-wound mechanical movement developed and assembled at the watchmaking atelier "La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton"
- Automata mechanism with five mechanisms, jumping hour, retrograde, minute hand, power reserve indicator
- Number of components: 426
・Power reserve: 100 hours
・Frequency: 21,600 vibrations/hour
・Jewels: 50
Case
・18K pink gold case and lugs
・Hand-engraved 18K pink gold crown and push-pieces, set with two rubies
・Diameter: 46.8 mm
・Thickness: 14.4 mm
・Domed sapphire crystal, anti-reflective coating
・Water resistance: 30 m
Dial
・Hand-painted enamel dial with paillonné, cloisonné and miniature enamel
・Hand-engraved (mask, helmet, sword, monster and bow)
・Dial set with two rubies
>
Strap
・Red calfskin leather
>
Buckle
・18K pink gold double folding buckle
>
https://youtu.be/83PjcY2kF7A
Louis Vuitton
Since 1854, Louis Vuitton has combined innovation and style in distinctive designs, consistently delivering the finest quality. Today, through its travel luggage, bags, accessories, and other products, the brand remains true to the creative, elegant, and practical spirit of "the essence of travel" created by its founder, Louis Vuitton. Boldness has shaped the Louis Vuitton story. Respecting tradition, the brand has opened its doors to architects, artists, and designers throughout its history, pioneering fields such as ready-to-wear, shoes, accessories, watches, fine jewelry, and fragrances. These meticulously crafted products are a testament to Louis Vuitton's dedication to craftsmanship.
Contact:
Louis Vuitton Client Services
TEL 0120-00-1854
www.louisvuitton.com
©Ulysse FrechelinA celebration of ancestral culture, art and craftsmanship, told through the changing expressions of its mechanical movement on the dial, the Tambour Automata story began in Europe in 2021 with the Tambour Carpe Diem Automata. Featuring a striking realistic skull and snake motif, this 21st-century automaton timepiece offers a poetic yet subversive interpretation of vanitas symbolism. Following that creation, which won the prestigious Audacity Prize at the Grand Prix de la Horlogerie de Genève, two years later, La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton introduced the Tambour Opera Automata. The piece, inspired by the captivating Sichuan opera "Changing Face," features a series of colorful masks that change instantly.
©Piotr StoklosaNow, the Maison journeys to Japan—the rich and fascinating world of the ancient samurai. As a prestigious warrior class in pre-modern Japan, samurai embodied deeply rooted values of strength, discipline, loyalty, and duty through a complex moral code known as bushido. Central to the samurai way of life, bushido is deeply rooted in values and honor as well as artistic expression, and has shaped Japanese society for centuries. A key component of this code is the mask, an essential part of the samurai's armor. Designed to convey strength and courage in the face of adversity, the mask exudes both power and menace through its shifting facial expressions, while making an aesthetic and symbolic statement.
©Piotr StoklosaAn Extraordinary Complication
Paying homage to Japanese art, culture and history, the Tambour Bushido Automata is a spectacular expression of the Bushido spirit through an imaginative 16-second spectacle of watchmaking. Equipped with a manual-winding movement, Caliber LV 525, this piece is brought to life by the most exceptional Métiers d'Art (artistic craftsmanship) developed by La Fabrique du Temps' in-house craftsmanship studio, La Fabrique des Arts.
©Piotr StoklosaWith 426 components, two patented technologies and a total of 180 hours of movement assembly, the Caliber LV 525 is the same base movement used in the award-winning Tambour Carpe ·Diem Automata. Developed by La Fabrique du Temps' master watchmakers Michel Navas and Enrico Barbasini, the Tambour Bushido Automata displays the time on demand, with five animations integrated into the dial, bringing captivating changes to the samurai's mask. Set against a shimmering golden backdrop, the expressionless samurai stands silently, setting the stage for the story. At the press of a button, the automaton mechanism is activated, and the iconic supernatural creature, a yokai, rises and moves to the side, revealing the jumping hours engraved on the armor's forehead. At the same time, a slim sword motif glides to display the retrograde minutes.
©Piotr StoklosaA few seconds later, the Tambour continues its mesmerizing mechanical puppet show, while the hours and minutes remain unchanged. The samurai's expressionless, confident face becomes more powerful and determined. His calm eyes give way to a stern gaze of determination and strength. A complication magically moves one of his eyes, transforming it from a Monogram Flower to a Monogram Starflower. Meanwhile, the samurai's strength is captured in his chin as well. The jaw drops and the mouth opens to reveal the word "Bushido" in vibrant crimson Japanese characters between rows of hand-crafted mother-of-pearl teeth before the mouth closes tightly again.
©Ulysse FrechelinThe background of the dial is also richly decorated. At 9 o'clock, a bright red sun rises from the peak of Mount Fuji, its position indicating the remaining power reserve of the automaton's 100-hour power reserve.
A Precious Celebration of Japanese Art
This masterpiece is further enhanced by its captivating dial, which combines symbolism and artistry in its movement and pays homage to Japan's rich history and culture. As with its predecessors, the Tambour Bushido Automata offered La Fabrique des Arts an opportunity to truly push the boundaries of watchmaking techniques. Particularly in the area of enameling, endless possibilities were explored and innovative new techniques were developed by combining the traditional techniques of engraving and enameling.
©Piotr StoklosaEach element of the dial encouraged our artisans to truly experiment and innovate with their skills, transforming the Tambour Bushido Automata into a canvas of exquisite expression. The result is a dial full of detail, three-dimensionality and intrigue, while capturing the unique emotion and dynamism of the samurai. For example, the helmet is a piece of armor used to protect the head, but it is also a symbol of the samurai's individual identity and status. Master engraver Dick Steenman and his team brought this symbolism to life. The rose gold helmet is first engraved and then fired at high temperatures using the calamine technique. This creates a thin layer of charcoal with a burnt finish. It is then hand-finished to allow the underlying gold to shine through.
©Piotr StoklosaSimilar contrasts of light and shadow can also be seen in the samurai's face protector, a part of the helmet that symbolizes strength and power. Sculpted in white gold using the relief technique, the menho is meticulously crafted, showcasing realistic details and contours. The yokai (ghost) at the center of the helmet is also meticulously engraved in rose gold. The ruby-eyed supernatural creature is imbued with life and vitality, thanks to the three-dimensionality and perspective that only an engraver can achieve.
Other intricate engravings include the knots in the string, the blade and hilt, the automaton's push-pieces, and the crown. The case back is also full of life, capturing the play of light. Echoing the story unfolding on the dial, the red lacquered apparitions showcase the high level of craftsmanship alongside traditional watchmaking decorative elements such as circular graining and Côtes de Genève finishing. A total of 140 hours were spent engraving the dial, push-pieces, and crown of the Tambour Bushido Automata.
A Tale of New Techniques
In parallel with the art of engraving, innovative enameling techniques were developed. La Fabrique des Arts boldly experimented with new techniques and innovations, ultimately completing this piece after approximately 120 hours of work. Craftsmen took on the challenge of further refining their skills, drawing on the know-how they had gained from the Tambour Carpe Diem Automata and Tambour Opera Automata. They succeeded in developing ultra-thin processing techniques to achieve an extremely thin surface while maintaining the vivid colors and three-dimensional effect.
©Ulysse FrechelinTake for example the delicately shimmering golden background of the dial. Using the paillonné enamel technique, silver foil is applied to a base layer of pink enamel, and then two layers of clear enamel are applied on top to give the dial a golden hue. This creates delicate details and colour gradations, particularly in the foothills of the mountains. Finally, a thin layer of fondant enamel is applied to create a lustrous, shiny finish.
©Piotr StoklosaMount Fuji is also crafted using the cloisonné enamel technique, with multiple layers of white enamel representing snow layered within the gold filigree outline, creating a striking, three-dimensional effect and a powerful finish. The surface itself is a masterpiece, combining numerous artistic handicrafts and savoir-faire. First, Dick Steenman engraved the piece, followed by two layers of red enamel, one of the most challenging colors to work with. The enameller's years of expertise and experience were essential to achieve the right tone and shading of the enamel while emphasizing the sculptural design underlying the surface. A specially applied enamel layer was then applied, achieving a refined, almost matte, antique look.
©Piotr StoklosaThe mask's eyes, meanwhile, feature a design combining cloisonné enamel on the outer edges and paillonné enamel and fine gold flakes in the center. A final layer of blue enamel gives the eyes a powerful glow, expressing a rich range of emotion. The shikoro, part of the helmet worn to protect the samurai's neck, is dotted with Monogram ·flower motifs, a reference to Louis ·Vuitton's codes. Finished with a special combination of jet black and crimson enamel, this technique and color scheme is also reflected inside the samurai's mouth.
©Ulysse FrechelinThe dial of the Tambour Bushido Automata is meticulously crafted, with no element overlooked or left to chance. Even the knots on the laces are first engraved by Dick Steenman's team, before being subjected to a process combining enameling and other miniature enamel techniques with multiple firing processes to achieve a velvet-like texture. The captivatingly finished dial, with its multi-layered three-dimensional structure, demonstrates La Fabrique des Arts' extraordinary commitment to pushing the boundaries of centuries-old watchmaking craftsmanship and savoir-faire, building on the expertise of the Métiers d'Art (artistic handicrafts) cultivated through the Tambour Carpe Dième Automata and Tambour Opera Automata.
A Work of Art Surrounds the Case
Embodying the pinnacle of La Fabrique des Arts craftsmanship and further capturing Louis Vuitton's spirit of adventure, the Tambour case is the first in the Louis Vuitton watchmaking collection to feature fully engraved and enameled case and bezel. Depicting a samurai traveling through Japan and a crimson sun setting behind Mount Fuji, the Monogram Flower motif is set against a red enamel background, enveloping the entire case. First, hundreds of tiny indentations are hammered into the case, and then translucent red enamel is applied. During the high-temperature firing process, the enamel penetrates the tiny holes, creating a beautiful grain effect. This process requires 200 hours of labor and carries the risk of cracking.
©Ulysse FrechelinA delicately engraved pink gold bezel surrounds this stunning scene. The delicate lines and cloud patterns gently enveloping the letters "LOUIS VUITTON" sparkle in the light. Crafted by the same engravers and enamellers who created the dial, each and every bezel is unique. With the artistic delicacy and nuance that only the human hand can achieve, this bezel completes the story of the Tambour Bushido Automata. This watch truly embodies a true feat of watchmaking and aesthetics. Imaginative, emotional and uniquely Louis Vuitton, this creation further highlights the Maison's bold and adventurous spirit as it continues its adventures with the Tambour Automata.
©LOUIS VUITTON"Tambour Bushido Automata"
W1PG31
Movement
- Caliber LV 525: Hand-wound mechanical movement developed and assembled at the watchmaking atelier "La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton"
- Automata mechanism with five mechanisms, jumping hour, retrograde, minute hand, power reserve indicator
- Number of components: 426
・Power reserve: 100 hours
・Frequency: 21,600 vibrations/hour
・Jewels: 50
Case
・18K pink gold case and lugs
・Hand-engraved 18K pink gold crown and push-pieces, set with two rubies
・Diameter: 46.8 mm
・Thickness: 14.4 mm
・Domed sapphire crystal, anti-reflective coating
・Water resistance: 30 m
Dial
・Hand-painted enamel dial with paillonné, cloisonné and miniature enamel
・Hand-engraved (mask, helmet, sword, monster and bow)
・Dial set with two rubies
>
Strap
・Red calfskin leather
>
Buckle
・18K pink gold double folding buckle
>
https://youtu.be/83PjcY2kF7A
Louis Vuitton
Since 1854, Louis Vuitton has combined innovation and style in distinctive designs, consistently delivering the finest quality. Today, through its travel luggage, bags, accessories, and other products, the brand remains true to the creative, elegant, and practical spirit of "the essence of travel" created by its founder, Louis Vuitton. Boldness has shaped the Louis Vuitton story. Respecting tradition, the brand has opened its doors to architects, artists, and designers throughout its history, pioneering fields such as ready-to-wear, shoes, accessories, watches, fine jewelry, and fragrances. These meticulously crafted products are a testament to Louis Vuitton's dedication to craftsmanship.
Contact:
Louis Vuitton Client Services
TEL 0120-00-1854
www.louisvuitton.com
