In an era where technology advances at breakneck speed, leaving yesterday's innovations in its wake, Louis Erard has discovered something profound in the discarded remnants of our digital revolution. The new Louis Erard Fil d'Or represents more than just another limited edition timepiece—it embodies the beautiful collision between obsolete microelectronic precision and timeless horological artistry.
This extraordinary collaboration with Wire Art Switzerland's Sylvie Villa and Mark Miehlbradt tells a story of transformation that goes far deeper than its stunning visual impact. These engineers-turned-artists have breathed new life into wire bonding machines once destined for industrial graveyards, repurposing tools that once stitched together our digital world to now weave golden threads across time itself.
Things to Know About the Watch
Housed in a 39 mm Noirmont stainless steel case and paired with a beige leather strap, Fil d'Or is limited to just 99 pieces worldwide, like all watches in their Métiers d'Art collection. The dial of the Fil d'Or isn't merely decorated—it's meticulously embroidered with 2,320 threads of 24K gold, each strand just 25 microns thick and three times finer than human hair.
Every thread is individually placed and micro-soldered using machines designed initially for microchip production, creating a mesmerizing cube pattern that plays tricks on the eye while remaining truthful in its execution. The process demands 45 minutes of extreme precision for each dial, with 3,660 solder points defining the chapter ring and hour markers—a testament to the obsessive attention to detail that defines true craftsmanship.
Its newly designed rhodium-plated hands, satin-brushed on top with diamond-polished angles, perfectly complement the gold-threaded dial. Every wire and solder point reflects the exceptional craftsmanship of Wire Art Switzerland. More than a watch, Fil d'Or is a wearable work of art — a miniature masterpiece for your wrist.
What makes this achievement particularly remarkable is Louis Erard's commitment to accessible excellence. Rather than creating an exclusive piece for the privileged few, this collaboration demonstrates that exceptional artistry can be made attainable without compromising its integrity. The geometric cube motif—a signature element that connects Fil d'Or to previous Louis Erard Métiers d'Art pieces—creates a visual continuity while pushing the boundaries of what's possible in dial making.
The Movement
The Louis Erard Gravée Main is powered by the élaboré grade automatic Sellita SW261-1 calibre with 31 jewels, which beats at a frequency of 28,800vph and provides a power reserve of 38 hours. The movement is fully visible via the smoked display case back and is equipped with a special openworked oscillating weight with a black lacquered Louis Erard symbol.
On the Wrist & Price
This isn't just about preserving traditional watchmaking—it's about redefining it. By embracing discarded technology and transforming it into an instrument of beauty, Louis Erard continues to prove that innovation doesn't always mean moving forward; sometimes it means finding new purpose in what we've left behind. In the Fil d'Or—golden threads—don't just mark time, they weave together past, present, and future into something entirely unprecedented in horology. This watch is available in a limited edition of 99 pieces.
Sticker Price CHF 4,500—approx USD 5,600 plus applicable tariffs. More info on Louis Erard here.
