Louis Vuitton Unveils the 20 Semi-Finalists for the Second Series of the Louis Vuitton Watch Prize, Honoring Independent Artisans in the Watch Industry
Louis Vuitton Watch Prize Announces 2025 Semi-Finalists
The world of independent watchmaking is buzzing with excitement as the Louis Vuitton Watch Prize for Independent Creatives has revealed its semi-finalists for the second edition of the prestigious award. The biennial prize, a collaboration between Louis Vuitton and La Fabrique du Temps, recognises boundary-pushing watchmakers who demonstrate creativity, innovation, and exceptional craftsmanship.
This year, the panel of 65 industry experts evaluated hundreds of entries from around the globe, resulting in the selection of 20 semi-finalists. Among them are established names and newcomers alike, each showcasing a unique approach to watchmaking.
One of the standout creations is Fabian Pellet's 'Essentiel' watch, with its clean, pared-back design that captivates the eye. Another contender, Quiet Club's 'Fading Hours', stands out for its stripped-back aesthetic and unusual alarm function, where time is only revealed when activated.
The shortlist also includes representatives of a new generation of watchmakers, such as Kallinich Claeys, Mineroci, and Daizoh Makihara, who are experimenting with design and technique. From Asia, there is strong representation with China's Fam Al Hut and Mgraver, Japan's Masa & Co., and Quiet Club making the cut.
Auffret Paris' 'Giverny Blue Train' watch, with its artistic detail, and the intricate Kudoke 5 by Kudoke are also among the semi-finalists. Other notable entries include the St. Petersburg Easter Egg Tourbillon Clock by Anton Suhanov, the Resurgence by JN Shapiro, and the DC6 Titanium by David Candaux.
In March 2026, the finalists will travel to Paris to present their creations in person. The finalists will be announced on December 15, 2025, with the winner revealed in February 2026. The winner will receive €150,000 and a year-long mentorship with specialists from Louis Vuitton and La Fabrique du Temps.
The Louis Vuitton Watch Prize aims to support and celebrate the creativity, innovation, and craftsmanship in independent watchmaking, showcasing a broad mix of backgrounds, styles, and watchmaking philosophies. The finalists' creations are produced in small numbers but reflect a deeply personal vision and a level of care that's hard to replicate.
[1] Louis Vuitton Watch Prize [2] The Richest [3] Forbes [4] Hodinkee [5] WatchPro
- The Louis Vuitton Watch Prize, which celebrates creativity, innovation, and exceptional craftsmanship in independent watchmaking, has announced its semi-finalists for 2025.
- The 20 semi-finalists, which represent a broad mix of backgrounds, styles, and watchmaking philosophies, will be showcasing their unique approaches to watchmaking.
- In the technology-focused world of fashion-and-beauty publications like The Richest, Forbes, Hodinkee, and WatchPro, the Louis Vuitton Watch Prize finalists are generating eager anticipation.
- Each of these semi-finalists, from established names to newcomers, embodies a level of personal vision and dedication to craftsmanship that sets them apart from the crowd in the competitive fashion, lifestyle, and travel industry.
