Louis Vuitton and De Bethune Unveil Louis Varius Project Watch

Louis Vuitton and Swiss watchmaker De Bethune have officially unveiled the "Louis Varius Project," marking the third collaboration in Louis Vuitton's ongoing initiative within independent watchmaking. The project is the result of close work between Jean Arnault, Director of Louis Vuitton Watches, and Denis Flageollet, Master Watchmaker and co-founder of De Bethune.

The Louis Varius Project features a modern reinterpretation of the 18th-century "Sympathique" clock, alongside a unique version of De Bethune's signature DB25 GMT Starry Varius. Originally conceived by Abraham-Louis Breguet in 1795, the Sympathique clock could automatically synchronize a pocket watch with a more precise master clock. Flageollet has successfully revisited this historic mechanism, blending continuity with innovation.

This collaboration represents a new milestone in Louis Vuitton's series of partnerships, allowing for a reinvention of one of horology's most audacious historical creations with a contemporary approach. Jean Arnault stated that such collaborations grant watchmakers the freedom to define their own vision of time and Louis Vuitton, bringing an external perspective that supports independent watchmakers and, in turn, offers them a fresh view of the brand.

Part of the LVMH conglomerate, Louis Vuitton has been increasingly focusing on high-end watchmaking. This partnership with an esteemed independent manufacturer like De Bethune highlights the company's commitment to the art of horology and the creation of technically sophisticated and exclusive timepieces.