Chopard is the official sponsor of the Mille Miglia, a vintage car race that originated in Italy in 1927. The "Mille Miglia" collection, first released in 1988 and continuing annually, is inspired by this very race.

The Mille Miglia GT XL GMT, introduced in 2008, is a particularly noteworthy piece, featuring a sporty aesthetic that embodies motor spirit with its substantial 44mm case, complemented by a practical GMT function.

The GT XL's signature large dial, with its applied hour markers and generously sized minute and second indices, not only enhances legibility but also imparts a dynamic impression. A 24-hour index is positioned at the center of the dial, with a red hand indicating a second time zone. Naturally, the collection's hallmark racing emblem and red arrow logo are prominently placed at the 3 o'clock position. The watch also features an integrated date magnifier on the crystal, showcasing meticulous attention to detail.

Available in an 18K rose gold case with a slate grey dial, evoking the classic elegance of vintage car racing, there is also a more sporty variation in a stainless steel case with a black dial (¥803,250). The strap can be changed from Balenia calfskin to a rubber strap inspired by 1960s Dunlop racing tires. In either configuration, the unique world of this legendary car race deepens with each iteration of the collection.



BRAND HISTORY

Chopard's history began in 1860 with the production of pocket watch movements. In the first half of the 20th century, the company also gained renown as a jewelry brand, and in the 1960s, it conceived its iconic "Happy Diamonds" collection. The way diamonds freely dance within the dial continues to captivate women worldwide to this day.

Furthermore, Chopard possesses considerable expertise in the realm of mechanical watchmaking, its true passion. Since 1988, the company has sponsored the "Mille Miglia" vintage car race and released collaborative models associated with the event. The high level of craftsmanship in its mechanical watches, primarily chronographs released almost annually, has also established Chopard as a brand with a sporty dimension.

In 1997, after more than four and a half years of development, Chopard achieved its long-held ambition of completing a manufacture caliber. In the same year, the "L.U.C 1860" was introduced, featuring a movement bearing the initials of founder Louis-Ulysse Chopard. This marked the beginning of Chopard's continuous development of new manufacture calibers.

In 2003, the brand unveiled the complex "Quattro Tourbillon," and in 2005, the "L.U.C Fleurier" garnered significant attention as the first watch to be certified under the new quality standard "Qualité Fleurier."

Then, in 2007, Chopard succeeded in developing the "L.U.C Chrono One," a model equipped with its own chronograph movement, considered one of the most challenging to create. The company continues its rapid development as a manufacture brand.

Founded: 1860
Place of Founding: Sonvilier, Switzerland
Main Collections: L.U.C, Mille Miglia, Happy Diamonds
Inquiries: Chopard Japan Press 03-5414-2520

Official Website: http://www.chopard.com/