Louis Moinet’s 1816 chronograph marks the rebirth of a significant icon:
the very first chronograph in history
This timepiece has been nominated in the Chronograph category of the 2025 Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève, known as the “Oscars” of the watch world.
The 1816 will thus be displayed to the public in Istanbul from October 17 to 20, at the Vakko Hotel Sumahan Bosphorus. This exhibition is part of the annual traveling exhibition that showcases all pre-selected watches.
Indeed, 1816 was a milestone in horological history. In that year, the great watchmaker, Louis Moinet, completed his now famous Compteur de tierces, which was in fact the world’s first chronograph.
The 1816, launched over two centuries later, is a resolutely contemporary interpretation of the original timepiece, with many aesthetic elements inspired from the pioneering invention.
The unusual layout of the original dial, with two counters in the upper half, demanded the making of an exclusive in-house calibre. It comprises 330 components and combines an instantaneous minute counter, column wheel control of chronograph functions, and a swan-neck regulator, a veritable manifesto of haute horlogerie. On the back, the movement reveals a mechanical landscape evocative of the finest creations from the famed Vallée de Joux in Switzerland.
The grade 5 titanium case with double gadroon retains the Directoire silhouette of the original, while the titanium bracelet, completes the visual ensemble with its fluid ergonomics. It is the first bracelet ever designed by Les Ateliers Louis Moinet and was named “Bridge Project” after the bridge-shaped links.
For enthusiasts seeking more watchmaking lore, you can visit Istanbul’s two most prestigious addresses: the Quadran İstinyepark and the Quadran Galataport, where rare Louis Moinet creations are on display, including some unique pieces not found anywhere else in the world.
This presence in Istanbul marks an important milestone in Louis Moinet’s contemporary history. And it’s just the beginning. Other projects are in the pipeline, so please stay tuned.
October 17 TO 20 2025
Vakko Hotel Sumahan Bosphorus
ÇENGELKÖY, KULELİ CAD.
NO:43, 34684
