My first glance at the new Aikon Urban Tribe made me think of South American Incas’ etchings or Native Americans’ Indian totem poles, but we are told that the laser engraving of the new limited edition automatic is inspired by the skyline and architecture of modern cities; the emphasis is on urban, not tribe, we are told.
Regardless, it is a visually impressive watch in both its 39mm steel case and bracelet and its skeletonised dial.
This is not the first Aikon Urban Tribe. It was first seen in 2021 limited edition, but with Maurice Lacroix’s signature Clous de Paris dial. Only 500 were made, which swiftly sold out, according to the French watchmaker.
Today’s piece also has a production run of 500, but a price of £3,990, more than double the £1,890 of the 2021 edition.
It uses a skeletonised SW200 movement, made exclusively for Maurice Lacroix by Sellita, which allows the watch wearer to look deep into the mechanics from the dial side.
The flip side of the movement, with a customised rotor, can also be admired via an exhibition case back.
Maurice Lacroix says the case and integrated bracelet’s laser-etched patterns have been inspired by the concrete, glass and steel structures which have come to define the avenues and boulevards populating the World’s most vibrant cities.
“Back in 2021, when we released the Aikon Urban Tribe, the watch attracted much attention and soon sold out. Since then, we’ve received numerous requests for another Urban Tribe watch,” says Stéphane Waser, managing director of Maurice Lacroix.
“The new Aikon Skeleton Urban Tribe subscribes to the same non-conformist spirit, but goes further by employing a sapphire dial that reveals the intricately shaped skeleton movement. This is a watch made for city dwellers who love the excitement and noise of an urban landscape,” he adds.
