Louis Erard has once again joined forces with Massena LAB for another take on a common complication. Le Chronographe Monopoussoir draws inspiration from 19th century pocket watches and continues with the styling from the first time these two brands collaborated. 

Initial thoughts

Louis Erard’s brand identity is continually shaped and defined by its many partnerships. Its latest collaboration with Massena LAB continues this creative streak with a relatively classical complication in the form of a mono-pusher chronograph. 

Building upon their collaboration from last year, the latest timepiece has kept the distinctive grained dial that is industrially finished but well executed. They have opted for a more restrained design by having just a single register at twelve, deviating from the traditional two- or three-register configuration of most chronographs.

Despite the minimalist aesthetic, the watch is very big at 43 mm wide and 15.7 mm thick. The thickness in particular is a lot and the size may turn some people off. The carries a substantial presence on the wrist, arguably too much for a watch of this style.

One reason for the size is the movement, which is the same Sellita calibre found in all Louis Erard chronographs, including the Alain Silberstein iteration. For that reason, it also remains in the same price range, with a retail of US$4,950, making it fair value as an interesting yet affordable chronograph.

At the same time, this distinguishes itself through the classical aesthetic, especially compared to other more modern Louis Erard collaborations, and will certainly appeal to those who appreciate traditionally styled timepieces. 

Inspired by the 19th century

The design of the Le Chronographe Monopoussoir meant to be reminiscent of 19th century pocket watches and clocks, evoking a sense of nostalgia. The dial is finished with an industrially-applied frosting that is pleasing and adds to the vintage charm. The same finish was first found on the last year’s regulator collaboration between the two brands.

Last year’s collaboration, the Le Régulateur Massena LAB

Continuing with the previous collaboration’s template, this chronograph is available in two configurations: a dial plated in yellow gold and a more understated option in rhodium (officially labelled silver).

The chronograph features a single, silvered minute register positioned at twelve, while the logos of both brands are placed at six.

This is by no means a small watch, housed in a polished steel case measuring 43 mm in diameter and 15.7 mm high. The additional thickness is attributable to the automatic chronograph movement.

The Sellita SW500MPCa inside is derived from the architecture of the workhorse Valjoux 7750, but undergone modifications to transform it into a single-pusher chronograph. As a result, the pusher integrated into the crown serves as the only control for activating and operating the chronograph, giving the case a clean outline.

Key facts and price

Le Chronographe Monopoussoir Louis Erard x Massena Lab
Ref. 74239AA70 (silver)
Ref. 74239AA71 (gold)

Diameter: 43 mm
Height: 15.70 mm
Material: Steel
Crystal: Sapphire
Water resistance: 50 m

Movement: Sellita SW500MPCa
Functions: Hours, minutes and chronograph
Winding: Automatic
Frequency: 28,800 beats per hour (4 Hz)
Power reserve: 48 hours

Strap: Calf leather with pin buckle

Limited edition: 356 pieces – 178 pieces per model
Availability: Direct from Massena LAB, Louis Erard, and their retailers
Price: US$4,950

For more information, visit Louiserard.com.