LOUIS MOINET TRANSCONTINENTAL STEEL & ROSE GOLD 150th TC RAILROAD ANNIVERSARY SELF WINDING CAL. LM64

THE "TRANSCONTINENTAL BY LOUIS MOINET" WATCH

An innovative mechanism
A clever automaton has been developed to reproduce the coupling rod systems on "Jupiter" and "119", the two locomotives that made the final connection at Promontory Summit in 1869. A wheel arrangement comprises two large wheels and one small wheel, concentrating energy into continuous power. 

The coupling rod passes on power to two reamed, anodised aluminium piston rods - except that here, rather than a piston, the system showcases a reproduction of the legendary Golden Spike, moving up and down in recollection of the thousands of crampons driven in all the way along the route.

The hours and minutes can be read off in the centre of the watch, while the seconds are displayed at six o'clock, on a segment representing the front of a locomotive.

The movement is an automatic winding mechanical movement.

Design
Ateliers Louis Moinet have won 29 prizes over the past ten years, including a large number of design awards from all over the world. Creating meaningful pieces remains the Ateliers' absolute priority. 

"Transcontinental by Louis Moinet" plays on the contrast of a black plate and a rose-gold-coloured dial with a high copper content. While frosted decoration is a watchmaking classic, this particular finish is of an entirely different order. To produce such dense frosting, a micro structure was developed using laser technology. The individual number of each watch is engraved at 12 o'clock, on an 18-carat "Golden Spike" head, framed by the date - 1869.

Innovative technical solutions were devised to create an unprecedented case shape. Everything is arranged around two stylised, openwork bridges. These span the watch, securing the strap at either end of their lugs. The bridges hold the movement's container - and the precious mechanical mechanism it houses - in place. Last but by no means least, the signature six-screw bezel, a hallmark of the Louis Moinet style, adds a distinctive touch to the piece. 
The alligator strap, meanwhile, comes with a folding clasp decorated with another historic Louis Moinet symbol: the Fleur de Lys. 
The box features an original design illustrating the 150th anniversary of the Transcontinental Railroad, with the inside done out to resemble the piping of a steam locomotive. A medal commemorates the event; at its centre sits a newly-fashioned crampon made from a genuine American rail spike dating back to the nineteenth century.
Transcontinental by Louis Moinet will be available in autumn 2019 in two exclusive limited editions. To commemorate the 1869 achievement, just 18 watches will be available in 18-carat rose gold; and just 69 more will be available in steel and 18-carat rose gold.