March LA.B, a brand born from a shared love for surfing and 1970s design, consistently delivers annual Millésime editions that honor its heritage while pushing creative boundaries. This year's offering, the AM2 "Nyctalope" Carbon, is a prime example, blending the familiar octagonal silhouette with cutting-edge materials and unexpected luminous effects. This special release elevates the AM2 collection, presenting a modern interpretation that is both functional and aesthetically captivating.
Details of the March LA.B AM2 “Nyctalope” Carbon
The March LA.B AM2 "Nyctalope" Carbon is a striking limited-edition timepiece, with only 169 units available, each priced at €2,495. This watch represents a significant evolution for the brand, showcasing an innovative use of materials and thoughtful design elements. Its distinct personality is primarily defined by its unique case and luminous features.
The octagonal case, measuring 38mm in width, 44mm from lug to lug, and 12.8mm in thickness, is crafted from lightweight forged carbon. This material not only contributes to the watch's comfortable wear but also creates a visually dynamic surface, incorporating subtle green swirls that come alive under UV light. This luminous effect is a playful nod to the watch's "Nyctalope" moniker, referencing excellent night vision. Complementing this, the dark green two-part dial features prominent 3D Super-LumiNova hour markers, ensuring superb readability in dimly lit environments. A particularly charming detail is the horizontal orientation of the markers at 1, 5, 7, and 11 o'clock, adding a unique visual flair.
Powering the "Nyctalope" Carbon is the La Joux-Perret G100 automatic caliber, a robust movement operating at 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz). With 24 jewels and a substantial 68-hour power reserve, it guarantees reliable and precise timekeeping. The movement is visible through a green sapphire display on the black PVD-treated case back, offering a subtle glimpse into the watch's mechanical heart. The watch is presented with two exquisite jacquard-woven straps, meticulously crafted by Julien Faure, the esteemed ribbon mill also known for supplying Tudor. One strap is a sophisticated black-and-green combination with a black PVD-treated steel buckle, while the other is an all-black variant featuring a black titanium buckle. Both straps are designed for comfort and feature subtle French flag detailing on the keepers of the all-black strap, adding a touch of national pride.
With a water resistance of 100 meters, the AM2 "Nyctalope" Carbon is designed for everyday wear. The PVD-treated crown, positioned at 4 o'clock, maintains the signature AM2 aesthetic, offering a practical and comfortable user experience despite its non-screw-down design. Additionally, the date window at 6 o'clock features a white numeral display against a black disc, with a special green "3" appearing on the third day of each month, symbolizing the brand's founding month.
A Modern Twist on a Retro Classic
Experiencing the March LA.B AM2 "Nyctalope" Carbon was a revelation, perfectly bridging the gap between nostalgic design and contemporary innovation. The lightweight nature of the forged carbon case, combined with the watch's comfortable dimensions, made it an absolute pleasure to wear. The vibrant green luminescence under UV light and the intricately textured dial added layers of depth and intrigue, transforming what could have been a purely retro piece into something distinctly modern and engaging. This watch doesn't just tell time; it tells a story of thoughtful craftsmanship and a forward-thinking vision, reaffirming March LA.B's commitment to creating distinctive and memorable timepieces. It left me eager to explore the broader AM2 collection and the brand's future endeavors, particularly after such an impressive introduction.