Only recently taken over by LVMH, L’Epée 1839 is celebrating its 185th anniversary with the T35, a clock shaped like a 1920s racing car, specifically the acclaimed Bugatti Type 35, which set several records and won numerous Grand Prix. But the T35 is more than a clock – the removable engine block is actually a cigar lighter.

Initial thoughts

L’Epée 1839 is known for both its own clocks and the many collaborations with brands like MB&F or Chanel. Although they are actual time-telling devices, L’Epée’s creations are usually elaborate kinetic sculptures which also happen to be built around clockwork.

This is the case with the T35 as well. In itself the movement is not very advanced, but the T35 is more of an interactive kinetic sculpture rather than a serious chronometer. Bringing to mind the New York taxi clock made for Tiffany & Co., the T35 is a desktop timekeeper with clever details that allow the owner to interact with, like turning the steering wheel to set the time.

The built-in lighter feels kitschy on its face, but is actually a logical and useful addition to the clock given the context. Such a clock will inevitably sit on a desk or coffee table, and cigars are a probable vice for many of the potential owners.

A racing machine

The T35 takes the shape of a classic racing car with aluminium bodywork on a steel chassis. The bodywork is available in classical racing colours: French racing blue, British racing green, Obsidian black, and Rosso Corsa.

The elongated hood, prominent grill, and sloped rear are clearly modelled on 1930s cars, but the aesthetic is stylised and modern. It has a large footprint of about 44 cm by 18 cm, and stands almost 12 cm high. Unsurprisingly, since it is entirely metal, it weighs a hefty 4.52 kg.

The time is shown with two drums visible through a cutaway on the aluminium panels on the left of the body. The 1855 MHD movement sits in the driver’s seat, with the balance wheel and escapement protected by a glass dome. It’s an in-house calibre that runs for eight days on a full wind and beats at a leisurely 2.5 Hz.

Amusingly, the movement is wound by pulling back the car, with its rear wheels geared to wind the large mainspring. To set the time, the user turns the three-spoked steering wheel counterclockwise. Turning it clockwise “steers” the front wheels.

The engine bay is left uncovered, revealing the lighter modelled on the cast-aluminium motor blocks of the era. The gas-powered lighter pops up and can be removed when a lever emulating the hand brake is pulled.

The refillable cigar lighter resembles an engine block

Key facts and price

L’Epée 1839 T35

Dimensions: 119 mm tall; 439.7 mm by 180.5 mm
Weight: Approximately 4.5 kg
Material: Aluminium, steel and palladium-plated brass

Movement: 1855 MHD
Functions: Hours and minutes
Frequency: 18,000 beats per hour (2.5 Hz)
Winding: Wheel wound
Power reserve: 8 days

Limited edition: 100 pieces per colour, for 400 in total
Availability: From October 2024 direct from L’Epee 1839 or its authorised retailers
Price: CHF35,000 excluding VAT

For more, visit Lepee1839.ch.