LAPS Arche S01 Ivory adds architectural curves to a compact automatic watch

LAPS began with graphic, often playful quartz watches before turning to a more architectural approach with the Arche collection. The S01 Ivory has a textured, light-catching dial with faceted applied indices and asymmetric geometric hands. A small date window is set near four o'clock rather than interrupting the clean axis at three.

The 37.5 mm by 9.8 mm 316L steel case is composed around separate arch-shaped lugs and a sharply detailed brushed-and-polished bezel. Its automatic Miyota 9015 calibre has a reported 42-hour reserve, with a display back and 50 m water resistance. Assembly takes place in Paris.

At €860, the series represents an important move for the 2015-founded studio. LAPS is no longer relying solely on decorative treatments to establish an identity; case construction and modern, restrained proportions now do some of that work.