Hands-On With The Maurice Lacroix Masterpiece Gravity

Maurice Lacroix introduced the Masterpiece Gravity at BaselWorld this year, and the novelty took off with the pundits. The first models were finally delivered at select boutiques worldwide last month, and we caught up with a unique version, made at Harrods, and found at SalonQP, in London.

Maurice Lacroix has made no secret of its intention to grow in the high-end segment, and is doing so with great effect through the Masterpiece line. The Swiss company has introduced several thought-provoking designs, and the Maurice Lacroix Masterpiece Gravity is no different. This particular model, the Gravity, is one of the first timepieces to feature an all-silicon assortment, developed entirely in-house by the brand’s innovative wing. And Maurice Lacroix is showing that off!

But in this watch, aesthetics rule. The watch is well sized at 43mm, and that’s because it can easily become messy to have several components on a small dial at once. Maurice Lacroix got it just right though, by featuring hours and minutes off-center. It’s a style that’s grown in popularity in recent years, with brands from MB&F to Blancpain using it as an alternative way of showcasing the time, as well as highlighting other aspects of their watches. It’s been a popular move cirtically as well, as the jury of the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève awarded Blancpain the Ladies’ Watch Prize for the Blancpain Women Heure Décentrée (See full results here).

But let’s get back to Maurice Lacroix and the Gravity’s beautiful white lacquered dial. It adds a classic touch to the watch, which is emphasized by the flat minute rail, featuring circular brushing on the extremities of the dial. However, a slight arch makes it pop out nicely. A small seconds display partially projects over the disclosed balance assortment, masterfully exploiting depth and curving lines.

Another highlight of the Masterpiece Gravity is the “glass-box” sapphire crystal which is again domed and magnifies the oscillator and the unique silicon assortment. Both sit quite high within the case and add a new dimension to the watch. Meanwhile, the self-winding movement can – and most definitely should – be viewed from the exhibition case back, as it features a Grand Colimaçon shaped Côtes de Genève motif. The Masterpiece Gravity is available in a Classical model, presented in a stainless steel case with roman numerals, and a Contemporary model, delivered in a sultry anthracite PVD finish, with diamond-cut indexes.

Photo Credit: Marion May for Haute Time. For more information, please visit the official Maurice Lacroix website.