The response was vigorous and nearly unanimous: No sooner had the 1816 debuted at Watches & Wonders 2025 in Geneva, than it captivated the attention of collectors, connoisseurs, and journalists alike. Some called it “an absolute must,” while others hailed it as “one of the most beautiful movements seen in Geneva this year.” The 1816 quickly appeared on numerous “best of” and top-five lists for new releases in 2025.

What triggered this enthusiasm was Les Ateliers Louis Moinet’s revival of a seminal chapter in horological history: the world’s first chronograph, originally crafted by Louis Moinet in 1816. CEO Jean-Marie Schaller presented the new 1816 chronograph after more than three years of development, positioning it as a watch that pays homage to Louis Moinet’s original Compteur de Tierces, but in a distinctly contemporaneous style. Notably, it is the first Louis Moinet model to feature a metal bracelet, marking a significant evolution for the brand.

At its heart is the newly developed LM1816 calibre, an in-house movement comprising 330 components and designed exclusively for this model to emphasise its unique character. Unlike previous releases, the 1816 will not be limited in production, ensuring its continued presence among the brand’s most iconic timepieces.