Ludovic Ballouard is an independent master watchmaker based in Geneva, Switzerland. Ballouard creates complications that offer whimsical, philosophical interpretations of time, featuring jumping hours where only the current hour is displayed right-side up.
Overview
Founded: 2009
Based in: Geneva, Switzerland
Typical Price Range: £60,000–£120,000 GBP
Known For: Upside Down, Half Time
Website: ludovic-ballouard.com
Brand Story
Of French origin, Ludovic Ballouard worked as a technician for aircraft instruments before entering watchmaking. He worked for Franck Muller and spent seven years at F.P. Journe as a master watchmaker responsible for the most complex complications. In 2009, during the financial crisis, he struck out on his own, launching the ‘Upside Down’ watch to remind people that the most important time is the present.
Design Language
Ballouard watches feature classical round cases containing dials with circular hour markers. In the Upside Down, eleven hour numerals are inverted, and only the current active hour flips right-side up, accompanied by a small dot indicator.
Movements & Manufacturing
The movements are highly complicated jumping mechanisms. They utilize a system of twelve Maltese crosses and gears on the dial side to control the jumping hour rings, combined with a traditionally finished Swiss hand-wound base calibre.
Notable Models
Upside Down is a highlight of their production line.
Why Enthusiasts Care
Ludovic Ballouard represents the eccentric, poetic side of independent watchmaking. His watches combine master-level watchmaker credentials (gained at F.P. Journe) with a unique sense of humor and philosophical playfulness, making them highly distinctive and rare additions to any collection.
Official Website
Ludovic Ballouard Official Website
Featured Models
Upside Down
The Ludovic Ballouard Upside Down features 12 individual jumping hour discs, where the current hour is the only numeral displayed right-side up.
