WATCH & JEWELRY /
SIHH&BASEL
June 1, 2015
Chopard | BASELWORLD 2015 Baselworld Breaking News | CHOPARD
CHOPARD | Chopard
Dual System in Geneva and Fleurier: Developing In-House Movements (1)
While primarily known for its jewelry, Chopard also possesses a sophisticated watchmaking manufacture that impresses even horological experts. The company operates an in-house movement production facility in Geneva, alongside a workshop in Fleurier, Switzerland, renowned for its stringent manufacturing standards. This year, the "Mille Miglia" collection features a model equipped with a chronometer movement certified by the Fleurier workshop.
Photographs by NAGASHIMA TohruText by KAWADA Akinori
Geneva and Fleurier: Both Producing Advanced In-House Movements
The in-house movement, bearing the initials of Chopard's founder, Louis-Ulysse Chopard, known as theL.U.CCaliber, is produced in the Geneva manufacture and holds the prestigious Geneva Seal, a mark of rigorous quality standards. Concurrently, Chopard maintains a dual manufacturing system with a workshop in Fleurier, where it also produces its own Chopard Calibers. In 2015, Chopard is expanding its range of L.U.C Caliber timepieces and has introduced a model in the popular classic car race collaboration series, "Mille Miglia," powered by a Chopard Caliber that has achieved COSC chronometer certification. This powerfully underscores the enhancement of its in-house movements through the dual system of Geneva and Fleurier.
Combination of Complicated Mechanisms and Advanced Dial Manufacturing Techniques
Within the "L.U.C" collection, the model named "L.U.C 1963" draws inspiration from the pocket watches of 1963, exuding a special aura.
ThisL.U.C 1963Tourbillon is a successor to the "L.U.C 1963" and "L.U.C 1963 Chronograph." It features a tourbillon carriage supported by a robust bridge at the 6 o'clock position, and a power reserve indicator at the 12 o'clock position, showing the remaining 9-day power reserve.
This movement, with its extended power reserve, incorporates Chopard's signature four barrels. It boasts double certification from the Geneva Seal and COSC chronometer standards. The white dial, adorned with classical Roman numerals, possesses a unique luster. Crafted using the "Grand Feu" technique—applying enamel and firing it in a kiln at temperatures up to 900°C—its beauty is truly artistic. This complication represents a high level of craftsmanship in both its movement and its exterior.
L.U.C 1963 Tourbillon
Case | 18K Rose Gold
Diameter | 40mm
Thickness | 10.6mm
Movement | Manual-winding (Cal.L.U.C 02.19-L1)
Functions | Tourbillon, Power Reserve Indicator
Strap | Alligator
Water Resistance | 50m
Limited Edition | 100 pieces
Release Date | Scheduled for this Winter
Estimated Price | ¥13,420,000 (excluding tax)
CHOPARD | Chopard
Dual System in Geneva and Fleurier: Developing In-House Movements (2)
New Model with an Extended 9-Day Power Reserve
There has been a noticeable trend towards longer power reserves in watches. The "L.U.C Quattro," introduced in 2005 with an impressive 9-day power reserve indicator, was a pioneer in this trend.
The secret to its extended 9-day (216-hour) power reserve lies in the use of four barrels to power the watch. By arranging two slightly smaller barrels vertically, and another pair alongside them as the power source, it achieves both space efficiency and powerful torque, enabling the long power reserve.
The Caliber L.U.C 98.01-L used in this model is a high-quality movement that has obtained both the Geneva Seal and COSC chronometer certifications. This new model features an exquisite match between the vibrant 18K rose gold case and the brown dial. Its exterior, exuding a chic yet luxurious mood, is also outstanding.
L.U.C Quattro
Case | 18K Rose Gold
Diameter | 43mm
Thickness | 8.87mm
Movement | Manual-winding (Cal.L.U.C 98.01-L)
Functions | Power Reserve Indicator, Pointer-type Date Display (coaxial with small seconds at 6 o'clock)
Strap | Alligator
Water Resistance | 50m
Release Date | Scheduled for this Winter
Estimated Price | ¥2,750,000 (excluding tax)
The Popular Classic Car Race "Mille Miglia"
The "Mille Miglia," a classic car race held between Brescia and Rome in Italy, is also known as the "world's most beautiful race." Chopard has served as the official timekeeper for this event since 1988 and simultaneously offers a collection bearing the "Mille Miglia" name. It has now become a popular staple in Chopard's watch lineup.
In 2015, three types were released: automatic, power reserve, and chronograph. The "Mille Miglia GTS Power Control" is one of these new models. Inspired by classic cars from 1940-1957, its power reserve indicator at the 9 o'clock position resembles a car's fuel gauge. The strap, featuring a tire tread pattern, further enhances the racing model's atmosphere. The Caliber Chopard 01.08-C used in this watch is produced in Chopard's Fleurier manufacture, and its high precision is certified by COSC chronometer standards. This is a coveted collaboration model that delivers substance along with style.
Mille Miglia GTS Power Control
Case | Stainless Steel
Diameter | 43mm
Thickness | 11.43mm
Movement | Automatic-winding (Cal. Chopard 01.08-C)
Functions | Power Reserve Indicator, Date Display
Strap | Black Rubber
Water Resistance | 100m
Release Date | July
Estimated Price | ¥690,000 (excluding tax)
Chopard Japan Press
Tel. 03-5524-8922
http://www.chopard.com






