The Maurice Lacroix Aikon Gets Titanium

Maurice Lacroix kits the Aikon Chronograph out in a tough and lightweight titanium case, offering discerning collectors a choice of gold and purple dial colours to enjoy.

Diehard watch fans would say that the Royal Oaks and Nautilus watches of the world (during the 1970s) were responsible for the popularisation of the integrated bracelet sports watch and, of course, they’d be right. But to that, I would have to respond; where would we be without the Tissot PRX and the Maurice Lacroix Aikon? In fact, the latter has played a very significant role in maintaining the sports watch hype, since the Aikon is a design inspired by the brand’s much earlier Calypso watch. After all, the brand has been active since the 1970s and has always promoted the idea of accessible luxury – the Calypso being no exception to the rule. The sports watch is (and always has been) defined by several signature characteristics: the robust stainless steel case with a substantial water resistant rating, the integrated bracelet, a simple time only, time & date, or chronograph layout, and a textured dial pattern. The Calypso ticked all of those boxes and so does the Aikon. But now things have taken an interesting turn, as Maurice Lacroix reveals a new material for the collection.

Aside from steel, bronze and plastic, the Aikon now gets a new titanium outfit which promises qualities of toughness and a lightweight finish on the wrist. Even more interesting is that these chronograph watches come in dial colours of gold and purple – the popularity of which the latter has been on the rise since last year.

The Different Types of Aikon 

The Aikon has been around since 2016 and within that relatively short space of time, has offered its audience quite a lot of variety. Colourful dials are just one of the fun and quirky perks to enjoying the Aikon collection, but the brand also offers the sports watch in quartz or automatic and different case sizes, too, not to mention cases made from recyclable materials to promote plastic waste in the ocean and its devastating impact on marine life. Generally speaking, not much has changed in these new designs. So, if the Aikon was perfect in your eyes, you won’t be disappointed with this new lightweight version. Aside from promising a more ergonomically comfortable design, it retains the lustre of a stainless steel case, keeps the 44mm diameter, and features the instantly recognisable claws around the bezel. Let’s take a look at the new Maurice Lacroix Aikon Titanium watches in a little more detail...

The New Maurice Lacroix Aikon Titanium Watches

As already mentioned, Maurice Lacroix has decided to keep the dimensions and overall design of the Aikon the same. Why change what works? The brand’s experts equip the 44mm titanium case with a mix of finishes and a blend of grade 2 titanium and grade 5 titanium, giving them an overall sportier look. These are not the usual suspects when it comes to Aikon watches. Quite understandably, this is a big part of their appeal. The models have a decidedly opulent look. The polished surfaces of the grade 5 titanium (preferred for its toughness thanks to the addition of aluminium) inject the design with an opulent look, while the grained surfaces show off those elements crafted from grade 2 titanium – preferred for its ease of machining. The case measures a depth of 15mm, enabling it to easily sit underneath the cuff of a shirt. Other features include a 200-meter water resistance, an integrated bracelet and a hexagonal screw-down crown to match the shape of the bezel.

Although the winning feature of these new Maurice Lacroix Aikon Chronograph watches may be the titanium case for those who plan to wear it every day of the week, the brand ensures the dials of these newbies are just as impressive. Both the bright purple and the gold variants are adorned with the Paris de Clous surface pattern and feature chronograph counters placed at 6 9, and 12 o’clock – each one filled with a contrasting colour. While the gold variation boasts a take on the panda dial with sub-counters filled in black, the purple iteration is just as eye-catching, showcasing silver-filled counters. A day-date window at 3 o’clock is set against a matching colour to the chronograph counters and the hour track is finished in Super-LumiNova-coated batons to match the central hands.

These new Aikon Chronograph watches are Valjoux-powered lightweights, relying on a movement that has stood the test of time. Hidden deep inside the heart of the titanium case is the mechanical movement based on the Valjoux 7750 architecture. The automatic engine beats to the rhythm of 28,800 vibrations per hour and produces a useful power reserve of 42 hours once fully wound. The finishes of the chronograph movement are showcased on the reverse side of the watch via a sapphire crystal glass exhibition window, where perlage and colimacon finishes can be admired up close.

Last but not least, the integrated bracelet. The addition of an integrated bracelet in any sports watch will make it wear a little larger. However, those who like their watch to exude a bit of presence will enjoy the attention the new titanium Aikon Chronograph watch attracts. The titanium bracelet is executed in a mix of polished and brushed finishes and secures to the wrist with a folding clasp. It also features quick release spring bars for alternating the titanium bracelet with an alternative material band.

While the integrated sports watch occupies a crowded space on the market, there is always room for an Aikon. This time, Maurice Lacroix has raised the bar with an exceptionally well-crafted and lightweight titanium case that will serve wearers well, especially those who tend to use their watch for all manner of activities and situations. The titanium Aikon watches still look smart, sporty and sophisticated, offering collectors an opportunity to enjoy the gold or purple iterations at any given opportunity. If you’d like more information on these new releases call and speak to a member of our friendly Jura Watches sales team on 01335 453453 or email us at help@jurawatches.co.uk.