Watch Collection Comparison: Similar Models

sham1 · 2022-11-22T13:01:54Z

Explore Louis Erard's collaborations with Alain Silberstein and Stephen Silver. sham1 reviews the unique dials, wearable dimensions, and market impact of these limited edition watches.

sham1

WPS member · Independents forum

21 replies3520 views5 photos

In a detailed exploration, sham1 delves into the evolving landscape of Louis Erard's collaborations, particularly focusing on the brand's partnership with Alain Silberstein. sham1 provides a comparative analysis of the various iterations, highlighting the aesthetic and design nuances that distinguish each release. This article offers an insightful look into how these collaborations shape brand perception and collector appeal.

Lately one could argue that there has been an overdose of collaborations, none more so that the Louis Erard Alain Silberstein watches which have a character of their own thanks to Silberstein's input but when one is promised a limited edition of 178 pieces, one would not expect a few other editions afterwards with a different dial or different strap colour.

Saying that we obviously would make comparisons between each reiteration and I have come to the conclusion that the latest collaboration with the Stephen Silver Jewellery Company which is based in Silicon Valley USA has arguably the most attractive dial of the three releases. What I like about this dial is the blue minute counter which not only gives the dial a lovely contrast but also makes the dial appear a bit smaller. The two watches released are the La Semaine that has a date and tells the day of the week via a smiley face that gets happier as the week progresses and also the Regulateur, a Louis Erard favourite, The La Semaine is limited to 72 pieces and can be bought individually while the Regulateur is only available as a box set with the La Semaine, limited to 28 pieces.

The watches are 40mm in diameter, 47mm lug to lug and are 11.7mm in height, all very wearable. The movement is the ever reliable automatic Sellita SW220-1 and the case is in titanium.

Those who know me would know that I have a weakness for dress watches. However, to avoid being accused of being overly predictable and somewhat a creature of habit, I could not ignore the fun factor of these watches so I have decided to add the box set to my collection.

The original Triptych which includes a chrono monopusher

The Diptych with a white dial and light grey strap

My favourite is the latest release with Stephen Silver

The movement

The box set that I have ordered

Key Points from the Discussion

The Louis Erard x Alain Silberstein collaborations, while distinct, have seen multiple editions, sometimes exceeding the initial promise of limited runs. The latest collaboration with Stephen Silver Jewellery features a blue minute counter that enhances dial contrast and visual balance.
The watches are praised for their wearable dimensions (40mm diameter, 47mm lug-to-lug, 11.7mm height) and titanium case, making them comfortable for daily wear. While the Sellita SW220-1 movement is reliable, collectors are drawn more to the unique dials and 'fun factor' of these pieces.
The design ethos of the Louis Erard x Alain Silberstein watches, with their distinctive shapes and playful elements, aligns well with Silberstein's previous independent works, which often feature geometric forms like triangles and squares.
Brand awareness for Louis Erard has significantly improved through collaborations with notable designers like Vianney Halter and Alain Silberstein, demonstrating how strategic partnerships can elevate a brand's profile and exclusivity.
A contributor recounts a negative experience with Stephen Silver Jewellery, where they were unceremoniously dismissed from an event despite an invitation, highlighting a significant lapse in customer service. This incident underscores the importance of the after-sales experience in the luxury watch industry.
The Silicon Valley market, characterized by 'new money' and a younger clientele, often prioritizes immediate product acquisition over the long-term value of customer service and provenance. This contrasts sharply with traditional luxury markets where relationships with authorized dealers are paramount.

The Discussion

sham1

Nov 22, 2022

There had been little coverage on the Stephen Silver release last week except on Quill and Pad. I believe due to the limited coverage, the watches are still available so I hope you manage to source one (or two!)

sham1

Nov 22, 2022

I have always been a fan of the Regulator but this time the only way of accessing one was to buy the box set so I thought why not?!

sham1

Nov 22, 2022

It has become one of the few accessible limited editions as many tend to be sold out these days when announced.

cazalea

Nov 22, 2022

Which is in keeping with many original Silverstein watches (triangle, square, etc.)

sham1

Nov 22, 2022

I had the chrono monopusher from the original release and was ok with the winding crown but it lacked the feel of a proper crown.

sham1

Nov 22, 2022

I think the brand awareness for Louis Erard has improved since its collaborations with Vianney Halter and Alain Silberstein. Some brands are not so suited for collaborations as it may dilute the exclusitivity of the brand. Now we also see some brands working with watch clubs - everyone wants something a bit special I guess.

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Watch Collection Comparison: Similar Models

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