The MIH presents two anniversary timepieces

Inspired by the previous two series but with a renewed design by XJC, these models were developed within the MIH restoration workshop and crafted with the help of renowned artisans historically established in the La Chaux-de-Fonds region. Set to go on sale during the 30^th Prix Gaïa ceremony on 19 September and delivered by the end of the year, the MIH Gaïa Series III watches and the 50^th anniversary edition pay tribute, each in their own way, to watchmaking and the museum’s legacy. The sale of these pieces is intended to fund preservation and promotion efforts for the collections housed by the MIH.

The art of reference
The MIH Gaïa watch embodies the essence and spirit of the place where it was conceived. Original in both form and display, the model draws inspiration from the museum’s architecture: a brutalist building whose underground structure surprises with its interplay of empty spaces, concrete and light. This game of hide-and-seek inspired the design of the watch case, a blend of intertwining curves and straight lines.

The dials in these new editions draw inspiration from various architectural elements in order to create unique and innovative visual effects. Depending on the version, the straight lines and circular arcs refer directly to the angles of the structures and the intersections of the formwork left visible, or to the play on curves, rhythm and light created by the MIH's scenography. Each watch is associated with an original signed and numbered silkscreen by Xavier Perrenoud (XJC).

MIH Gaïa III
This numbered 100-piece limited series features a blue finish, the institutional color of the Musée International d'Horlogerie (MIH). The dials are colourised by Positive Coating, a company specialising in surface treatments. By combining PVD (Phy-sical Vapor Deposition) and ALD (Atomic Layer Deposition) technologies, they achieve a stable and uniform coating. The patterns on these sky blue dials are inspired by the visible formwork marks on the concrete walls of the MIH. These parallel and perpendicular lines also evoke the brutalism of the structure.

50^th anniversary edition
A numbered 50-piece limited series has been produced to celebrate the museum’s jubilee. The dial design is the result of Xavier Perrenoud's exploration of the symbolism behind the Ensō, a complex concept in Zen Buddhism represented by a circle that embodies the idea of emptiness through form.

The interplay of solid and empty spaces created by the random stops in the guilloché lines, crafted by Georges Brodbeck, invites a philosophical reflection on the balance of elements. Inspired by this spiritual concept as well as the curves and light effects of the museum’s architecture, the 50^th Anniversary Edition dial is made of silver. Each guilloché line, arranged in a graceful arc, is the result of a confident and precise movement, yet its placement is a free interpretation of the artisan's hand, making every piece unique. These timeless curved forms echo the elegant, ovoid silhouettes of the museum’s characteristic showcases.

Partners
The first MIH Gaïa watch was created in 2019 through the close collaboration of artisans and companies from La Chaux-de-Fonds, all experts in their field and renowned worldwide for the quality of their work. Winiger Horloger and the Timeforge office were responsible for its design and technical plans.

For the 2024 edition, XJC reimagined and redesigned the watch; Sellita brought it to life with its movement; Singer produced its dial; Positive Coating added color to the MIH Gaïa III series using ALD technology; while Georges Brodbeck engraved the 50 silver dials of the special anniversary edition; Stila provided a custom-made case; Brasport adorned it with an apple leather strap; Cornu & Cie crafted the clasp; and the Dubois Laboratory contributed to its reliability by conducting a series of tests. In partnership with MIH and the artisans from its antique watch restoration workshop, each of these experts worked tirelessly to create a watch that is attractive, high-performing and truly unique.

Acquire an MIH Gaïa Watch
These two new timepieces have been available online since 19 September at the address www.montremih.ch. The MIH Gaïa watch also meets the demand of museum visitors who wish to acquire a locally produced timepiece during their visit to this UNESCO World Heritage site. For this reason, it will also be available for purchase at the MIH shop.

Two exceptional watches for a landmark project
The year 2024 marks the 50^th anniversary of the MIH's residence in its current building. Carved into the side of the Parc des Musées in La Chaux-de-Fonds, this raw concrete structure offers a unique perspective on the works it houses. After half a century of operation and two million visitors, it is time for the museum to undergo a transformation. Extensive renovations and upgrades within the Parc des Musées and the building will enable museum and its collections to be rediscovered in a new light.

This intervention is more than just maintenance of the building designed by Pierre Zoelly and Georges-Jacques Haefeli; it aims to undertake a museographic redesign of the permanent collections. The original display cases, instantly recognisable and emblematic of the MIH, will be enhanced by a new scenography. Harmonious and respectful of preventive conservation standards, it will illuminate the masterpieces of horological heritage.

The museum route will be structured around three themes: an introduction to the history of time measurement; an overview of mechanical watchmaking; along with a multidisciplinary exhibition addressing issues related to time mastery. This new visitor circuit tailored to different audiences is above all a cultural project designed to accompany societal evolution in a forward-looking approach.

October 10, 2024