Maurice Lacroix Aikon Skeleton Urban Tribe
Fergus Nash- The Maurice Lacroix Aikon Skeleton Urban Tribe introduces even more complexity and depth
- At 39mm in diameter, it’s a comfortable fit for such a visually-loud watch
- The skeletonised dial artfully shows off the ML115S movement, based on a Sellita SW200
Maurice Lacroix aren’t afraid to get experimental, and the Urban Tribe is a key example of the lengths they’ll go to showcase a unique identity. First unveiled at 2021’s Geneva Watch Days, the collaboration with the French freerunner Simon Nogueira was intended to mirror the architectural spirit of modern cities. Now the fast-selling engraved case has returned as the Maurice Lacroix Aikon Skeleton Urban Tribe, introducing more intrigue and artistic complexity.
Although the case’s intricate engravings are supposed to echo contemporary architecture, truthfully the design seems a lot more abstract. An assortment of curved and rigid shapes have been compiled to compliment the angles of the case itself, offering fantastic textural contrast. The geometry is presented in relief above a sandblasted backdrop, which allows for a shift in lustre as the watch is moved around. Engraving a case with such precision and detail always elevates its glamorous appeal, feeling more like jewellery without the need for hundreds of diamonds.
Wearability is important with a piece like this, because such strong visual impact can end up being a bit garish if it’s oversized. The Maurice Lacroix Aikon Skeleton Urban Tribe tames that effect with a 39mm diameter and a 45mm lug-to-lug, making for an extremely comfortable wearing experience on an average wrist. The 11mm thickness is also impressive for a sports watch with slab sides and a chunky bezel, especially considering the 200-metre water resistance which will allow you to wear it in any scenario.
The dial of the Maurice Lacroix Aikon Skeleton Urban Tribe is made from sapphire, allowing beautifully polished baton hands to float atop the skeletonised movement. The ML115S has been created alongside Sellita to work from the SW200 base, flowing the design of the dial around the most visually important components. The mainspring barrel is open and visible at 5 o’clock, as is the golden balance wheel ticking away at 12. The spanning bridges are brushed on their upper surfaces, while sunken recesses are blasted in a similar manner to the case engravings. On a performance level, the calibre is renowned for being accurate and reliable with a smooth 4Hz sweep, and 38 hours of power reserve. You can view the movement through a sapphire display caseback that shows off the skeletonised winding rotor, ensuring that light can pass all the way through both sides of the watch. From this rear view, you can also see quick-release spring bars for fitting the integrated bracelet or other suitable Maurice Lacroix straps, however I can’t see why you would ever want to remove the gorgeous engraved bracelet.
The Maurice Lacroix Aikon Skeleton Urban Tribe pricing and availability
The Maurice Lacroix Aikon Skeleton Urban Tribe is limited to 500 pieces, and is currently available online and at Maurice Lacroix retailers. Price: US$4,250
| Brand | Maurice Lacroix |
| Model | Aikon Skeleton Urban Tribe |
| Reference Number | AI6007-SS009-030-1 |
| Case Dimensions | 39mm (D) x 11mm (T) x 45mm (LTL) |
| Case Material | Stainless steel |
| Water Resistance | 200 metres |
| Crystal(s) | Sapphire |
| Dial | Skeletonised |
| Strap | Steel bracelet |
| Movement | ML115S, Sellita SW200 base, automatic |
| Power Reserve | 38 hours |
| Functions | Hours, minutes, seconds |
| Availability | Limited to 500 pieces |
| Price | US$4,250 |