[Louis Vuitton] 2nd Louis Vuitton Watch Prize for Independent Creatives Grand Prize Goes to Hazemann & Monnin
The 2nd Louis Vuitton Watch Prize for Independent Creatives awarded its grand prize to Swiss watchmakers Hazemann & Monnin for their bold innovation and exceptional craftsmanship. The prize celebrates independent watchmaking talent globally, with Hazemann & Monnin receiving a trophy, a substantial grant, and a year of mentorship.
📋 Article Processing Timeline
- 📰 Published: March 31, 2026 at 03:04
- 🔍 Collected: March 30, 2026 at 21:46
- 🤖 AI Analyzed: April 15, 2026 at 12:38 (374h 52m after Collected)
This award, celebrating boldness, innovation, and exceptional savoir-faire in watchmaking, marked an unforgettable moment of succession as the trophy was formally presented by the previous laureate, Raoul Pagès.
Paris, March 24, 2026 – Amidst an atmosphere celebrating watchmaking excellence, the 2nd edition of the "Louis Vuitton Watch Prize for Independent Creatives" awarded its grand prize to Hazemann & Monnin at an awards ceremony held at the Fondation Louis Vuitton. The Parisian ceremony and cocktail reception brought together leading experts, enthusiasts, and personalities from the global watchmaking scene, celebrating a significant new chapter in the history of independent watchmaking.
From five meticulously selected independent watchmakers worldwide, Hazemann & Monnin emerged as the prize winner. The awards ceremony and cocktail reception at the Fondation Louis Vuitton in Paris was attended by numerous leading watchmaking experts and enthusiasts from around the globe. The climax of this dreamlike night, where time seemed to stand still, was a breathtaking performance by Canadian singer-songwriter Charlotte Day Wilson.
"Winning the 2nd Louis Vuitton Watch Prize is a testament to the deep understanding of our atelier's present and future vision. This honor validates our approach, from the conception of the movement to the decoration of each component, as being correct. Furthermore, it opens new avenues for progress by supporting independent maisons and enabling us to pass on new ideas in watchmaking to future generations," stated Alexandre Hazemann and Victor Monnin of Swiss-based Hazemann & Monnin.
**About Hazemann & Monnin**
Hazemann & Monnin is an independent watchmaking company based in Switzerland, founded by Victor Monnin and Alexandre Hazemann. While the atelier officially began in 2024, the partnership between the two dates back a decade earlier to the watchmaking program at the Edgar Faure High School in Morteau, France.
Since establishing the company, the two watchmakers have progressively expanded their in-house capabilities, from design and prototyping to machining, finishing, and assembly, aiming for true technical independence. Their debut creation, the "School Watch," features a movement with a jumping hour and passing chime, presented in two distinct interpretations reflecting the individual sensibilities of its creators.
While Hazemann's version emphasizes technical expression with blue accents, Monnin's interpretation pursues a more artistic approach by incorporating natural stones like malachite and opal for the dials. "We wanted to create a truly meaningful finish, allowing people to savor the entire mechanism over time," Hazemann states. Future timepieces will bear both their names on the dial as part of the maison's identity.
**About the Prize: The Future of Watchmaking Built on Passion**
Established in 2022, the "Louis Vuitton Watch Prize for Independent Creatives" is more than just an award; it embodies Louis Vuitton's passion for excellence in savoir-faire. Organized and supported by "La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton," the prize aims to champion independent watchmakers, artisans, and entrepreneurs who are forging bold new frontiers in watchmaking.
The second edition of the "Louis Vuitton Watch Prize" received numerous applications from around the globe, reaffirming the initiative's truly international reach. The prize extends beyond traditional watchmaking centers, shining a light on exceptional independent watchmaking wherever it thrives, regardless of nationality, origin, or years of experience.
The selection of 20 semi-finalists was carried out by a jury of 65 watch enthusiasts, experts, and collectors from around the world. Candidates' works were evaluated based on five criteria: design, creativity, innovation, craftsmanship, and technical complexity. The five selected finalists presented their creations before the final jury on the morning of the awards ceremony. Louis Vuitton does not participate in the selection of winners; the decision rests solely with the independent jury.
In a deeply moving moment symbolizing the spirit of "succession" at the heart of the prize, the winner of the 1st Louis Vuitton Watch Prize (2024), Raoul Pagès, personally presented the trophy to the new laureates, Alexandre Hazemann and Victor Monnin. It was a moment embodying the gratitude and commitment of past recipients who strive to illuminate the path for those who follow. "Winning the 2024 Louis Vuitton Watch Prize accelerated my career and brought me an immeasurable amount of recognition, for which I am eternally grateful. To then be able to hand over this trophy to the next winners is an equally immense honor and a living testament to the vibrant community of independent watchmakers that this prize fosters, where we support and illuminate each other," stated Raoul Pagès.
The five finalists this year—Cynthia Cheng (Cynthia Cheng Atelier, China), Alexandre Hazemann and Victor Monnin (Hazemann & Monnin, Switzerland), Bernard Lederer (Lederer, Switzerland), Daizoh Makihara (Daizoh Makihara Watchcraft Japan, Japan), and François-Xavier Nivelle (Quiet Club, Japan)—vividly embody the diversity and creative vitality of contemporary watchmaking.
From the seasoned Bernard Lederer, who has honed his escapement technology for 40 years, to the innovative endeavors of Cynthia Cheng, who submitted her first application within a year of establishing her brand, their innovations are diverse. These varied talents bridge centuries of tradition with the contemporary. Examples include Daizoh Makihara's intricate Japanese kiriko glass cutting techniques, the complex chimes by Alexandre Hazemann and Victor Monnin, and François-Xavier Nivelle's innovative alarm system. Each submitted piece was a testament to the creator's complete originality, a timepiece crafted to unique and rigorous standards.
As the distinguished recipients of the "Louis Vuitton Watch Prize for Independent Creatives," Hazemann & Monnin receive a scaled-down replica of the trophy, a grant of 150,000 Euros, and a comprehensive, personalized mentorship program spanning one year. This bespoke mentorship, delivered by the master watchmakers at "La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton" in Meyrin, Switzerland, and the Louis Vuitton team, will be meticulously tailored to the laureates' specific needs. Additionally, they will gain access to a network of committed professionals dedicated to supporting their continued growth.
Driven by the shared passion and collaborative spirit of independent watchmakers, the prize has evolved into a vibrant community. Louis Vuitton proudly supports this endeavor, acting as both a facilitator and an enthusiastic patron.
Held biennially, the prize is sustained by ongoing collaborations with renowned independent watchmakers featured on its expert committee. A limited edition series launched in 2023 by Jean Arnault has created a virtuous cycle, with Louis Vuitton spotlighting their visions and celebrating the world of independent watchmaking.
**More Than Just an Award, a Symbol of Recognition**
At the awards ceremony on March 24, Hazemann & Monnin were presented with a trophy featuring a silver finish, forming an elegant spiral. Its ascending form is a metaphor for the advancements in independent watchmaking. Inspired by the balance wheel, a crucial component for timepiece accuracy, the trophy is an artwork in itself.
Hazemann & Monnin became the second watchmakers to have their names inscribed on this trophy. It was presented within a custom-made trophy case, covered in Monogram canvas and handcrafted by artisans at Louis Vuitton's historic atelier in Asnières, near Paris.
**About the Jury**
The grand prize was selected by five jurors nominated from the recommendations of the expert committee members.
Jury President Carole Forestier-Kasapi: Director of Haute Horlogerie and Movement Strategy at TAG Heuer.
Frank Geelen: Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Monochrome Watches.
Mathieu Hellion: Artistic Director at La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton.
François-Xavier Overstake: Founder and Editor of Equation du Temps.
Kari Voutilainen: Owner and Director of Atelier Voutilainen, Administrator of Comblemine, specializing in dial making and surface finishing.
**About La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton**
Louis Vuitton entered the world of watchmaking in 2002 with the Tambour, pursuing an unending quest for excellence in a field that deeply resonates with the Maison's passion for travel. In October 2014, the Maison opened a new watchmaking workshop in Meyrin, Switzerland—a state-of-the-art facility at the forefront of creativity and technology for crafting innovative timepieces. "La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton," literally meaning "The Time Factory Louis Vuitton," encompasses all the specialized skills required for Louis Vuitton's watchmaking. Characterized by creative independence and groundbreaking innovation, La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton boasts a spacious, bright 4,000 sqm area combining traditional artisan tools with the latest digital technologies. The master watchmakers, engineers, and designers at Louis Vuitton's watchmaking division are privileged to work in an exceptional environment that further solidifies the proud "Swiss Made" label.
**About Louis Vuitton**
Since its founding in 1854, Louis Vuitton has consistently offered unique designs combining innovation and style with the highest quality. Through its products, including travel luggage, bags, and accessories, the Maison faithfully upholds the spirit of "the art of travel" – conceived by founder Louis Vuitton – which is both creative, elegant, and practical. "Boldness" has shaped the story of Louis Vuitton. While respecting tradition, over its history, the Maison has opened its doors to architects, artists, and designers, pioneering new fields such as ready-to-wear, shoes, accessories, watches & fine jewelry, beauty, and fragrances. These meticulously crafted products stand as a testament to Louis Vuitton's unwavering commitment to craftsmanship.
For more details, please visit the official Louis Vuitton website: https://www.louisvuitton.com
Paris, March 24, 2026 – Amidst an atmosphere celebrating watchmaking excellence, the 2nd edition of the "Louis Vuitton Watch Prize for Independent Creatives" awarded its grand prize to Hazemann & Monnin at an awards ceremony held at the Fondation Louis Vuitton. The Parisian ceremony and cocktail reception brought together leading experts, enthusiasts, and personalities from the global watchmaking scene, celebrating a significant new chapter in the history of independent watchmaking.
From five meticulously selected independent watchmakers worldwide, Hazemann & Monnin emerged as the prize winner. The awards ceremony and cocktail reception at the Fondation Louis Vuitton in Paris was attended by numerous leading watchmaking experts and enthusiasts from around the globe. The climax of this dreamlike night, where time seemed to stand still, was a breathtaking performance by Canadian singer-songwriter Charlotte Day Wilson.
"Winning the 2nd Louis Vuitton Watch Prize is a testament to the deep understanding of our atelier's present and future vision. This honor validates our approach, from the conception of the movement to the decoration of each component, as being correct. Furthermore, it opens new avenues for progress by supporting independent maisons and enabling us to pass on new ideas in watchmaking to future generations," stated Alexandre Hazemann and Victor Monnin of Swiss-based Hazemann & Monnin.
**About Hazemann & Monnin**
Hazemann & Monnin is an independent watchmaking company based in Switzerland, founded by Victor Monnin and Alexandre Hazemann. While the atelier officially began in 2024, the partnership between the two dates back a decade earlier to the watchmaking program at the Edgar Faure High School in Morteau, France.
Since establishing the company, the two watchmakers have progressively expanded their in-house capabilities, from design and prototyping to machining, finishing, and assembly, aiming for true technical independence. Their debut creation, the "School Watch," features a movement with a jumping hour and passing chime, presented in two distinct interpretations reflecting the individual sensibilities of its creators.
While Hazemann's version emphasizes technical expression with blue accents, Monnin's interpretation pursues a more artistic approach by incorporating natural stones like malachite and opal for the dials. "We wanted to create a truly meaningful finish, allowing people to savor the entire mechanism over time," Hazemann states. Future timepieces will bear both their names on the dial as part of the maison's identity.
**About the Prize: The Future of Watchmaking Built on Passion**
Established in 2022, the "Louis Vuitton Watch Prize for Independent Creatives" is more than just an award; it embodies Louis Vuitton's passion for excellence in savoir-faire. Organized and supported by "La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton," the prize aims to champion independent watchmakers, artisans, and entrepreneurs who are forging bold new frontiers in watchmaking.
The second edition of the "Louis Vuitton Watch Prize" received numerous applications from around the globe, reaffirming the initiative's truly international reach. The prize extends beyond traditional watchmaking centers, shining a light on exceptional independent watchmaking wherever it thrives, regardless of nationality, origin, or years of experience.
The selection of 20 semi-finalists was carried out by a jury of 65 watch enthusiasts, experts, and collectors from around the world. Candidates' works were evaluated based on five criteria: design, creativity, innovation, craftsmanship, and technical complexity. The five selected finalists presented their creations before the final jury on the morning of the awards ceremony. Louis Vuitton does not participate in the selection of winners; the decision rests solely with the independent jury.
In a deeply moving moment symbolizing the spirit of "succession" at the heart of the prize, the winner of the 1st Louis Vuitton Watch Prize (2024), Raoul Pagès, personally presented the trophy to the new laureates, Alexandre Hazemann and Victor Monnin. It was a moment embodying the gratitude and commitment of past recipients who strive to illuminate the path for those who follow. "Winning the 2024 Louis Vuitton Watch Prize accelerated my career and brought me an immeasurable amount of recognition, for which I am eternally grateful. To then be able to hand over this trophy to the next winners is an equally immense honor and a living testament to the vibrant community of independent watchmakers that this prize fosters, where we support and illuminate each other," stated Raoul Pagès.
The five finalists this year—Cynthia Cheng (Cynthia Cheng Atelier, China), Alexandre Hazemann and Victor Monnin (Hazemann & Monnin, Switzerland), Bernard Lederer (Lederer, Switzerland), Daizoh Makihara (Daizoh Makihara Watchcraft Japan, Japan), and François-Xavier Nivelle (Quiet Club, Japan)—vividly embody the diversity and creative vitality of contemporary watchmaking.
From the seasoned Bernard Lederer, who has honed his escapement technology for 40 years, to the innovative endeavors of Cynthia Cheng, who submitted her first application within a year of establishing her brand, their innovations are diverse. These varied talents bridge centuries of tradition with the contemporary. Examples include Daizoh Makihara's intricate Japanese kiriko glass cutting techniques, the complex chimes by Alexandre Hazemann and Victor Monnin, and François-Xavier Nivelle's innovative alarm system. Each submitted piece was a testament to the creator's complete originality, a timepiece crafted to unique and rigorous standards.
As the distinguished recipients of the "Louis Vuitton Watch Prize for Independent Creatives," Hazemann & Monnin receive a scaled-down replica of the trophy, a grant of 150,000 Euros, and a comprehensive, personalized mentorship program spanning one year. This bespoke mentorship, delivered by the master watchmakers at "La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton" in Meyrin, Switzerland, and the Louis Vuitton team, will be meticulously tailored to the laureates' specific needs. Additionally, they will gain access to a network of committed professionals dedicated to supporting their continued growth.
Driven by the shared passion and collaborative spirit of independent watchmakers, the prize has evolved into a vibrant community. Louis Vuitton proudly supports this endeavor, acting as both a facilitator and an enthusiastic patron.
Held biennially, the prize is sustained by ongoing collaborations with renowned independent watchmakers featured on its expert committee. A limited edition series launched in 2023 by Jean Arnault has created a virtuous cycle, with Louis Vuitton spotlighting their visions and celebrating the world of independent watchmaking.
**More Than Just an Award, a Symbol of Recognition**
At the awards ceremony on March 24, Hazemann & Monnin were presented with a trophy featuring a silver finish, forming an elegant spiral. Its ascending form is a metaphor for the advancements in independent watchmaking. Inspired by the balance wheel, a crucial component for timepiece accuracy, the trophy is an artwork in itself.
Hazemann & Monnin became the second watchmakers to have their names inscribed on this trophy. It was presented within a custom-made trophy case, covered in Monogram canvas and handcrafted by artisans at Louis Vuitton's historic atelier in Asnières, near Paris.
**About the Jury**
The grand prize was selected by five jurors nominated from the recommendations of the expert committee members.
Jury President Carole Forestier-Kasapi: Director of Haute Horlogerie and Movement Strategy at TAG Heuer.
Frank Geelen: Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Monochrome Watches.
Mathieu Hellion: Artistic Director at La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton.
François-Xavier Overstake: Founder and Editor of Equation du Temps.
Kari Voutilainen: Owner and Director of Atelier Voutilainen, Administrator of Comblemine, specializing in dial making and surface finishing.
**About La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton**
Louis Vuitton entered the world of watchmaking in 2002 with the Tambour, pursuing an unending quest for excellence in a field that deeply resonates with the Maison's passion for travel. In October 2014, the Maison opened a new watchmaking workshop in Meyrin, Switzerland—a state-of-the-art facility at the forefront of creativity and technology for crafting innovative timepieces. "La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton," literally meaning "The Time Factory Louis Vuitton," encompasses all the specialized skills required for Louis Vuitton's watchmaking. Characterized by creative independence and groundbreaking innovation, La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton boasts a spacious, bright 4,000 sqm area combining traditional artisan tools with the latest digital technologies. The master watchmakers, engineers, and designers at Louis Vuitton's watchmaking division are privileged to work in an exceptional environment that further solidifies the proud "Swiss Made" label.
**About Louis Vuitton**
Since its founding in 1854, Louis Vuitton has consistently offered unique designs combining innovation and style with the highest quality. Through its products, including travel luggage, bags, and accessories, the Maison faithfully upholds the spirit of "the art of travel" – conceived by founder Louis Vuitton – which is both creative, elegant, and practical. "Boldness" has shaped the story of Louis Vuitton. While respecting tradition, over its history, the Maison has opened its doors to architects, artists, and designers, pioneering new fields such as ready-to-wear, shoes, accessories, watches & fine jewelry, beauty, and fragrances. These meticulously crafted products stand as a testament to Louis Vuitton's unwavering commitment to craftsmanship.
For more details, please visit the official Louis Vuitton website: https://www.louisvuitton.com