Louis Vuitton Monterey II White Dial

Opening Context
The Louis Vuitton Monterey remains one of the most fascinating and unconventional projects in the brand’s watchmaking history, created during a period when luxury maisons were exploring new ideas in design, materials, and electronic technology. Originally conceived in collaboration with Italian designer Gae Aulenti during the 1980s, the Monterey stood apart from traditional Swiss watchmaking through its bold use of colour, geometric forms, and highly distinctive functionality. The Monterey II continued that design language while refining the concept, resulting in a watch that feels uniquely representative of its era while remaining remarkably original even today.

Why This Reference Matters
The Monterey II stands out because it embraces design as its primary complication. The combination of green ceramic and yellow gold immediately separates it from conventional luxury watches of the period, creating a playful yet sophisticated contrast that remains instantly recognisable. The white multi-ring dial introduces depth and architectural structure, with Arabic numerals, pointer date display, and alarm indications arranged in a manner that feels more industrial design than traditional watchmaking. The alarm function itself adds practical utility while reinforcing the watch’s identity as an object designed for daily interaction. Powered by a Swiss Quartz Alarm Movement (ESA 926.311), the Monterey II reflects the era’s fascination with precision electronic technology while allowing the case and dial architecture to remain slim and highly wearable.

On the Wrist
At 37mm, the Monterey II wears with balanced proportions that feel surprisingly contemporary despite its distinctly 1980s origins. The green ceramic case components create a bold visual signature without excessive size, while the yellow gold accents add warmth and refinement throughout the design. The layered white dial remains highly legible and visually engaging, with the pointer date and alarm indications providing constant visual interest. Paired with a matching green leather strap and yellow gold ardillon buckle, the watch feels artistic, individual, and unlike virtually anything else produced during the period by a major luxury house.

Condition & Transparency
This example features a 37mm case constructed from green ceramic and yellow gold with a white multi-ring dial displaying Arabic numerals, central hours and minutes, alarm indicator hand, and pointer date display. It is fitted to a green leather strap secured by a yellow gold ardillon buckle and powered by a Swiss Quartz Alarm Movement (ESA 926.311). As always, particular attention should be given to ceramic condition, dial preservation, alarm functionality, movement operation, strap condition, and overall set completeness—communicated strictly on verified information.

Why It Belongs in a Collection
The Louis Vuitton Monterey II belongs in a collection that values unconventional design, historically significant luxury collaborations, and watches that challenge traditional definitions of horology. It offers a rare glimpse into an experimental period when fashion, industrial design, and watchmaking intersected in highly creative ways. For collectors drawn to distinctive objects with genuine historical character and strong visual identity, the Monterey II represents one of the most interesting and underappreciated design watches of its era.

Closing
The Louis Vuitton Monterey II combines bold 1980s design, innovative material choices, and practical functionality in a way few watches have ever attempted. With its green ceramic construction, architectural dial layout, and unmistakable visual identity, it stands as a unique and highly characterful chapter in both Louis Vuitton and modern watch design history.

Specifications

• Case Size: 37 mm
  
• Material: Green Ceramic and Yellow Gold
  
• Dial: White Multi-Ring Dial with Arabic Numerals, Central Hours & Minutes, Alarm Indicator Hand and Pointer Date Display
  
• Strap: Green Leather Strap with Yellow Gold Ardillon Buckle
  
• Power Reserve: NA
  
• Movement: Swiss Quartz Alarm Movement (ESA 926.311)

Shipments are delivered under Delivered Duty Unpaid (DDU) terms, with duties and taxes payable by the recipient.