n°510 – timeinmovement time in movement
Transcription
n°510 – timeinmovement time in movement
T I M E I N M O V E M E N T M E N ' S T I M E Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 1 C O L L E C T I O N I N M O V E M E N T 20.09.11 11:00 Contents Chopard Manufacture 6 L.U.C Collection 40 150th anniversary 44 L.U.C 150 “All-in-One” 44 L.U.C Louis-Ulysse – The Tribute 50 L.U.C 1937 56 L.U.C Engine One Tourbillon 62 Tourbillons 68 L.U.C Tourbillon Tech Twist 74 L.U.C Tourbillon SL 78 L.U.C Tourbillon Tech Steel Wings 80 L.U.C Triple Certification Tourbillon 82 L.U.C Tourbillon Esprit de Fleurier 84 Moon phases 86 L.U.C Lunar One 90 Striking mechanisms 92 L.U.C Strike One 96 L.U.C Tech Strike One 98 Chronographs 100 L.U.C Chrono One 104 Classics 106 L.U.C XP 108 L.U.C XP Urushi 110 L.U.C XPS 118 L.U.C XP Tonneau 120 L.U.C Tech Twist 124 L.U.C Qualité Fleurier 128 L.U.C Quattro 132 2 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 2 20.09.11 11:00 A close-up look at a few professions 136 L.U.C calibres 154 Classic Racing collection 188 Superfast 192 Superfast Split Second 196 Superfast Chrono 198 Mille Miglia 200 Mille Miglia Gran Turismo XL 204 Mille Miglia GT XL Power Control 206 Mille Miglia GT XL GMT 212 Mille Miglia GT XL Chrono 2011 214 Mille Miglia GT XL Chrono Rosso Corsa 216 Mille Miglia GT XL Chrono 218 Mille Miglia GT XL Chrono Split Second 222 Mille Miglia Chronograph 226 Mille Miglia GMT Chrono 228 Grand Prix de Monaco Historique 234 Grand Prix de Monaco Historique 2010 238 Grand Prix de Monaco Historique Time Attack MF 240 Jacky Ickx 242 Jacky Ickx Edition V 248 Annexes Customer Service Guarantee Chopard milestones Glossary 252 254 258 259 262 3 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 3 20.09.11 11:00 4 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 4 20.09.11 11:00 Passion and reason When I took up the challenge of creating Chopard Manufacture in 1996, it was a choice guided by reason, but also by the passion that nurtures the Chopard brand. In my view, a brand can only fully exist in the field of Haute Horlogerie by achieving complete control of the making of its timepieces: design and development, production and assembly, movements and exteriors. It is a matter of independence, long-term reliability and authenticity, values that are cherished by our customers, and the creation of a full-fledged manufacture is an inescapable step in reaching this goal. Chopard Manufacture currently incorporates all the professions of Haute Horlogerie, a degree of vertical integration that enables it to create, develop and produce all the L.U.C collection movements in-house. There are currently nine base calibres and over 50 variations covering almost the entire range of horological complications – from the chronograph to the perpetual calendar, the tourbillon and the equation of time. All of them demonstrate a constant concern for quality in terms of both performance and finishing. Featuring a subtle blend of design, high technology and time-honoured traditions, all our L.U.C timepieces embody in their own way the Chopard state of mind as well as its inimitable style. Less than twenty years after the founding of Chopard Manufacture, the very fact of having created such a body of resources represents an accomplishment of which we are particularly proud. At a time when Chopard has just celebrated its 150th anniversary, we are delighted to present it to you here. Karl-Friedrich Scheufele 5 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 5 20.09.11 11:00 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 6 20.09.11 11:00 Chopard Manufacture Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 7 20.09.11 11:00 8 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 8 20.09.11 11:00 9 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 9 20.09.11 11:00 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 10 20.09.11 11:00 From the birth to the rebirth of an Haute Horlogerie manufacture The history of Chopard spans over 150 years and is marked by two essential milestones: 1860 and 1996. For while it was in 1860 that Louis-Ulysse Chopard created his watchmaking workshop in Sonvilier, in the mountains of the Bernese Jura; it was in 1996 that the company which now bears its name was rejuvenated by the founding in Fleurier, not far from the original birthplace, of Chopard Manufacture. Creating from scratch a genuine Haute Horlogerie manufacture represented a daring wager at the time, but the idea was driven by a genuine vision – that of Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, whose family had acquired the Chopard brand around 30 years earlier. This return to roots, to Chopard’s fundamental vocation, that of watchmaking, had to be undertaken not only in the region where it all began, in the Jura, but also by doing all that was necessary to achieve a legitimate and flourishing existence in the field of Haute Horlogerie. And recreating a manufacture was the only way of doing that. Almost twenty years later, the results are evident. Not only does Chopard Manufacture employ 150 people in Fleurier, but there are a number of staff members in Geneva directly involved with the Haute Horlogerie division. Because Chopard Manufacture also has workshops based in Geneva, which perform tasks including assembling models bearing the prestigious Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark. 11 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 11 20.09.11 11:00 CHOPARD MANUFACTURE The mastery of the numerous professions involved throughout the process of development and production, along with the resulting high level of vertical integration, now fully entitle it to the rare and enviable status of a genuine manufacture. Chopard Manufacture is indeed capable of making watches from their conception through to the finished models. This encompasses research and development undertaken by technical departments equipped with the most sophisticated computer-assisted software, all the way through to age-old decorative techniques entirely performed by hand in keeping with the finest watchmaking traditions. It is indeed this manual craftsmanship that enables Chopard to offer authentically unique pieces, since in terms of decoration and finishing each watch will in fact end up being completely different from any others. The human hand thereby remains the central element of Chopard Manufacture. Whether in terms of the production of movement components or exterior parts, decoration and finishing, assembly and casing up of the calibres and right the way through to the final control prior to delivery, the art of Haute Horlogerie as exercised by Chopard is entirely based on this incomparable production facility. And even through various constraints relating to the precision, the quality and the durability of today’s timepieces oblige any self-respecting manufacture to establish a cutting-edge industrial plant, Chopard Manufacture has chosen to give pride of place to hand craftsmanship, even when this choice involves higher production costs. The kind of choice that only a family business could make, thanks to an entirely independent structure unbound by the demands of immediate profit stemming from external investors unaware of the nature of fine watchmaking. 12 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 12 20.09.11 11:00 This long-term vision of independence, which has become a rarity in the field of Haute Horlogerie, is also echoed in the certification choices made by Chopard Manufacture: they are all granted by external and therefore independent organisations: the famous Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC), the Fleurier Quality Foundation label; and the much-coveted Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark. This forward-looking approach has proved both judicious and fruitful, since Chopard Manufacture currently has no less than nine movement families representing more than 50 calibre variations to its credit. Testifying to an exceptional degree of creativity and a rare level of expertise for such a youthful manufacture, they represent a constantly growing body of resources, since Chopard is now able to develop and produce the full range of horological complications. A set of assets entirely worthy of Louis-Ulysse Chopard… 13 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 13 20.09.11 11:00 CHOPARD MANUFACTURE Independence, creativity, quality Manufacturing a watch movement from start to finish is no easy task, and remains the exclusive preserve of a handful of watch brands in Switzerland who truly deserve to bear the title of manufacture. Chopard Manufacture is one of them, and one that opted, right from its founding in 1996, for extreme integration as a guarantee of independence, creativity and quality. Years of relentless effort have resulted in the L.U.C calibre collection. These three initials representing a tribute to the brand founder Louis-Ulysse Chopard are conferred on a series of exceptional movements. Among them, the L.U.C Calibre 05.01-L (L.U.C 4TQE), housed in the L.U.C 150 “All-in-One” is particularly representative of the movement creation process at Chopard Manufacture, and in this respect deserves a closer look at the various stages involved in its making. The 516 parts of L.U.C Calibre 05.01-L (L.U.C 4TQE) make up an incredible puzzle. All were developed and made one by one in the workshops of Chopard Manufacture. 14 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 14 20.09.11 11:00 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 15 20.09.11 11:01 CHOPARD MANUFACTURE 1. Research and development A new movement, a new watch For Chopard Manufacture, creating a new watch means first creating a new movement by following a lengthy Research and Development process, for such is its vision of Haute Horlogerie. The design and conception of its exterior, meaning everything that must be added to the movement to form a complete watch – case, dial, hands, etc. – comes later, the aim being to highlight its aesthetic and functional qualities. The process of conceiving a movement begins with an idea, with plans, with visualising a concept. It is only once this work has progressed sufficiently that the task of the movement design engineers working in the technical department can begin. It is these engineers, skilled in the use of computer assisted design software, who will conceive the movement while incorporating the various mechanisms and complications foreseen in the technical specifications. With the help of researchers in the Chopard Technologies division, they may be led to incorporate new materials and/or new processes. Based on the detailed plans they pass on to the calibre-makers, the latter then make movement prototypes in order to confirm the smooth operation or to implement any necessary corrective measures. Since 1996 and the founding of Chopard Manufacture, nine movement families have been developed in this way, giving rise to a number of patent registrations, including five for L.U.C Calibre 05.01-L (L.U.C 4TQE) alone, the most recent and complex of them all with its 516 components and 14 complications. L.U.C Calibre 05.01-L (L.U.C 4TQE), the result of many years of research and development. Protected by five exclusive patents, it is currently the most complex calibre produced by Chopard Manufacture. 16 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 16 20.09.11 11:01 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 17 20.09.11 11:01 CHOPARD MANUFACTURE 2. Micromechanics Micron-level precision Within a watch manufacturing facility, the micromechanical workshop is the place where everything starts – or almost so. It is indeed this workshop that receives the raw materials from which the movement components are made. These include the brass discs that will become the ébauche of a movement, meaning its mainplate and its bridges. This stage involves the use of computer numerically controlled machines which, with the help of various tools, successively mill, tap and bevel these small metal discs to a 2-micron level of precision. In certain specific cases, manual work is deemed more reliable and thus preferable – as in the case of trimming, which is done “by hand and by sight”. The other parts, generally encompassed in the French term fournitures (components), are usually made using steel bars. They are cut out by a wire electrical discharge machining, a system using a metal wire immersed in a conducting solution through which an electric current passes and which cuts the metal by “spark erosion”. The level of precision is even greater here, at less than a micron, and the parts must be electronically controlled. Chopard Manufacture produces almost all its movement components in-house. The non-decorated mainplate of L.U.C Calibre 05.01-L (L.U.C 4TQE). This tiny brass part machined to micron-level tolerances will carry all the mobile movement parts: arbors, wheels, modules, rods, springs… 18 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 18 20.09.11 11:01 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 19 20.09.11 11:01 CHOPARD MANUFACTURE 3. Decoration Inner beauty Haute Horlogerie is undoubtedly an activity that pushes the standard of movement decoration to extreme levels. And Chopard Manufacture is of course no exception to the rule, since it has chosen to treat each of its movements as a unique work of art. To this end, a number of operations, most of them manual, are performed on each of the ébauches and the other components. The work begins with the design department, which will decide on the type of decoration best suited to the technical structure of the calibre, the position of its escapement, of its bridges and of its different gear trains. The work will of course be done in cooperation with the various decoration artisans who will provide their opinions and advice regarding the feasibility and the quality of the result. No detail is left to chance, so as to ensure that each L.U.C movement is as beautiful as it is accurate. An absolutely original beauty, since the fact that the decorative work is performed by hand means that at the end of the day each movement is truly one of a kind. The mainplate of L.U.C Calibre 05.01-L (L.U.C 4TQE) once the decoration is complete. This entirely hand-crafted artistic work makes each component truly unique. 20 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 20 20.09.11 11:01 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 21 20.09.11 11:01 CHOPARD M ANUFAC TURE Bevelling, drawing out the sides with file strokes, buffing or smoothing the surfaces, flame-blueing the screws, as well as circular graining, gilded engraving, Côtes de Genève and electroplating will all be done by various highly qualified artisans. Some operations are highly complex. Engraving the Côtes de Genève, sometimes known as Geneva stripes or waves, for example, calls for perfect parallelism and absolutely constant depth for each of them. Not to mention aligning them between one part and the next when it comes to decorating several bridges of the same movement! Perfection is therefore mandatory, since any deviation, however minimal, will completely spoil the visual effect. The same goes for bevelling or chamfering, which involves handling the cutter and file with absolute precision, especially when creating the interior angles that must form a 45° angle with each of the sides. Circular grainers, bevellers and engravers decorate the components with meticulous care that even extends to perfecting the finish of the parts that will be invisible once the movement is assembled. The only exception to this rule is the heels of the bridges, which are left as such so as not to jeopardise their stability – the only case in which beauty defers to technical considerations. The bridges of L.U.C Calibre 05.01-L (L.U.C 4TQE) after being chamfered, gilt-engraved and rhodium-plated. 22 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 22 20.09.11 11:01 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 23 20.09.11 11:01 CHOPARD M ANUFAC TURE 4. Assembly Eye and hand Pre-assembly is a crucial phase in the making of a timepiece, since it is this phase that will determine the latter’s smooth operation and the precision. Chopard Manufacture thereby handles this in-house by entrusting it to the finest artisans and master-watchmakers of its Fleurier and Geneva workshops. Pre-assembly consists in assembling the complex mechanisms and components which, once in turn fitted together during the final assembly, will form the entire movement. Among them is the balance wheel, which is the central part of the movement regulating organ in that it sets the cadence. A balance spring must be pinned to the collet on the rotation axis in order to impart a to-and-fro motion at a given frequency. However, the balance spring must first undergo several operations, including, for certain calibres, the delicate “mounting of the curve”. Only two people within Chopard Manufacture are capable of performing this process designed to create a “Phillips” type terminal curve “by hand and by sight”, meaning without the help of any apparatus. To achieve this, the precision timer (known in French as a “régleuse”, or adjuster) gently twists the terminal coil to create a slight slope, and then twists it again to ensure it is perfectly parallel with the other coils, thereby forming a tiny “staircase”. She (because it so happens that this is an exclusively feminine profession) then gives it a slightly smaller radius so that it passes over the rest of the balance spring. This ingenious device enables the balance spring to uncoil in a concentric manner, thereby reducing the risks of gain or loss. It goes without saying that years of experience are needed to acquire the necessary dexterity for this task. The other operations such as pinning the balance spring up to the collet, centring it and truing it in the flat, and finally the dynamic poising of the balance wheel in order to ensure the precision of its oscillations, are all operations performed by hand within Chopard Manufacture. The components of the beating heart of L.U.C Calibre 05.01-L (L.U.C 4TQE): its tourbillon carriage equipped with a balance spring featuring a Phillips terminal curve. 24 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 24 20.09.11 11:01 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 25 20.09.11 11:01 CHOPARD M ANUFAC TURE The movement springs to life Assembly is the final stage, at the end of which the heart of the movement will begin beating for the very first time. For months on end, the components have been produced and the mechanisms assembled within Chopard Manufacture during the pre-assembly phase. All the parts of this complex puzzle will now be united by the watchmaker’s expert hand. According to the complexity of the movement, this work may take anything from several days to several weeks. L.U.C Calibre 05.01-L (L.U.C 4TQE) with its 516 components is an eloquent example. Assembling the 239 parts of the movement base, which includes an escapement fitted with a tourbillon regulator, calls for a full 24 hours. Assembling the perpetual calendar module, its connecting gear train as well as the unit bearing the astronomical functions such as the equation of time, sunrise and sunset times and the moon phase, takes 64 hours to fit together these 277 additional components. This time-consuming work ends with the stage referred to in French as achevage (literally, “finishing”), and which in fact involves adjusting the escapement. This is done by adjusting the pallet lever in relation to the balance wheel and the escape-wheel. This last phase also involves a set of equally delicate operations including fitting the balance wheel and the balance-wheel bridge, truing in the flat and centring the balance spring, poising the balance wheel, and lubricating the movement. All of which takes an expert hand 11 days, meaning over two weeks, to create and give life to just one of these calibres. Movements requiring such a lengthy assembly process are few and far between in the watch industry. L.U.C Calibre 05.01-L (L.U.C 4TQE) during the assembly process. 26 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 26 20.09.11 11:01 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 27 20.09.11 11:01 CHOPARD M ANUFAC TURE &HUWLÀFDWLRQV The irreplaceable objectivity of independent testing organisations The making of such sophisticated timepieces as the L.U.C models is a task that leaves no room for improvisation. It implies a whole set of perfectly regulated testing and certification processes. The rare components purchased from ultra-specialised suppliers, such as the hands or watch glasses, are also exhaustively controlled upon their arrival at Chopard Manufacture. All the other in-house made parts are also subjected to computer-assisted controls guaranteeing their correct dimensional and aesthetic characteristics. Once the watches are completed, their precision, functionality and reliability are tested. For this purpose, Chopard Manufacture has its own in-house laboratory, but also entrusts this mission to external bodies: the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC) – which tests the movements alone; and, for certain limited editions, the Fleurier Quality Foundation (FQF), which tests the complete watches. Nothing can compare with the objectivity of an independent organisation when it comes to granting a quality label, and in Switzerland only the COSC is entitled to guarantee the precision of a movement by a chronometer rating certificate. The FQF issues a unique certification, completed by a period spent in the “Fleuritest” machine. It encompasses aesthetic criteria along with others relating to precision and durability. Some of the most prestigious models in the collection are assembled in Geneva; in addition to compliance with extremely strict aesthetic criteria, this provenance is an essential prerequisite for a watch to be granted the rare and much-coveted Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark. Such is the case for the L.U.C 150 “All-in-One” and its L.U.C Calibre 05.01-L (L.U.C 4TQE), the crown jewel in the L.U.C collection which not only bears this prestigious hallmark but is also chronometer-certified by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC). Assembled L.U.C Calibre 05.01-L (L.U.C 4TQE). Fully operational, it bears the prestigious Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark and, once submitted to the COSC, will also earn the coveted title of a certified chronometer. 28 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 28 20.09.11 11:01 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 29 20.09.11 11:01 CHOPARD M ANUFAC TURE 6. Watch exterior design The watch as a jewel case for the movement One of the principles of Haute Horlogerie lies in inventing watches that are as beautiful inside as they are outside. This generally involves watches created prior to the calibre they house and which is subsequently developed in accordance with the constraints relating to the exterior – meaning everything other than the calibre itself: the case, dial, hands, glass… Chopard Manufacture has deliberately sought to adopt a diametrically opposite approach by first and foremost inventing movements, and then entrusting its own designers with creating timepieces that are not only beautiful and comfortable, but above all suitable for highlighting the technical and aesthetic characteristics of their movement. Most are therefore fitted with transparent case-backs providing views of the sophistication of their bridges, their escapement and their overall technical structure. In the case of the “Tech” models, the actual dial design not only seeks to express the functions of a calibre in a readable and appealing manner, but also to accentuate the beauty of a finish, the positioning of a gear train, or the finesse of a jumper-spring. This represents a means for the designers of Chopard Manufacture who are behind the DNA of the L.U.C collection to invent watches that are indeed equally beautiful inside and out. The watch exterior is designed in order to highlight the beauty and the functions of its movement. 30 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 30 20.09.11 11:01 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 31 20.09.11 11:02 CHOPARD M ANUFAC TURE Design and mechanical beauty The dials of the L.U.C collection all feature a shared aesthetic personality that owes nothing to chance. Whether satin-brushed or finely guilloché-worked, most are adorned with a sunburst motif centred on the Chopard logo, while others are made from a solid 18-carat gold plate. The typeface of the Arabic numerals they carry is equally specific and inspired by the men’s watches typical of the 1940s and 1950s. When it comes to the Roman numerals, their distinctive yet elegant style reflects that of the ultra-thin watches created by Chopard in the 1950s. The long and slender appliques are teamed with Dauphine hands, all specially designed for the L.U.C collection. The dial of the L.U.C 150 “All-in-One” features a 6 o’clock opening providing a chance to admire its tourbillon carriage. 32 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 32 20.09.11 11:02 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 33 20.09.11 11:02 CHOPARD M ANUFAC TURE A wealth of details that are far more than that Haute Horlogerie is a matter of technique, but also of details. Details that are actually far more than that, precisely because they play such a key role in the field of Haute Horlogerie. This is certainly true for the design of the external characteristics of L.U.C watches: their hands are of the “Dauphine” type, but this design widely used in the watch industry has been entirely revisited. Now more sophisticated and combining broken lines and perspective lines, they contribute in their own way to the overall technical and refined image of the collection. The Dauphine-type hands combine perspective lines with broken lines, thus contributing to the technical and elegant image of the L.U.C 150 “All-in-One” watch. 34 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 34 20.09.11 11:02 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 35 20.09.11 11:02 CHOPARD M ANUFAC TURE 7. Casting workshop In-house gold casting One final detail highlights the importance that Chopard Manufacture devotes to creating the exterior of its timepieces: driven by a concern for ensuring complete mastery of the quality of the various watch components (cases, buckles and lugs), it has chosen to cast its own gold – a rare case among Haute Horlogerie manufactures. Involving just the right blend of yellow gold, palladium, silver and copper, this represents yet another profession exercised in-house, making it one of the world’s most fully integrated manufactures. This extreme degree of integration makes it possible to achieve case finishes on which infinite care is lavished by the polishers of Chopard Manufacture, highly experienced artisans who marry vertical satin-brushing of the case-middle sides with vertical satinbrushed finishing of the bezel and case-back and polishing of the lugs… For such is the cost of perfection. The case of the L.U.C 150 “All-in-One” watch features alternating polished and satin-brushed finishes. It is crafted from an 18-carat gold specially cast by Chopard. 36 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 36 20.09.11 11:02 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 37 20.09.11 11:02 CHOPARD M ANUFAC TURE &DVLQJXSDQGÀQDOFKHFNV Extreme cleanliness and ultimate protection Casing up is the last stage in assembling a watch. The cases, which are designed, produced and finished by Chopard Manufacture, are sent to the casing-up workshop where they are joined by the hands, the dials, and of course the movements that are now operational and duly tested. The task consists in placing over the latter the dial and then the hands, after which the resulting ensemble is assembled within the case that will protect it throughout the life of the watch. Protection is the mantra in this workshop. The smallest eyelash or speck of dust could jeopardise the precision of the movement. To ward off such dangers, the premises are ultra-clean and permanently pressurised so as to expel any possible impurities in the air. Protective clothing is also a must. Securely closing the case around its precious contents involves fitting appropriate joints or gaskets. Water resistance is then tested to ensure that no dust, water or even outside air will ever penetrate into the sacrosanct interior. The watch “head” now assembled is at last fitted with the accessories required to make it a full-fledged watch: a hand-sewn alligator leather strap or metal bracelet, a pin buckle or a folding clasp. A last phase is complete, and a new life begins… The completed L.U.C 150 “All-in-One” watch: a micromechanical masterpiece stemming from years of development and several months of production. 38 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 38 20.09.11 11:02 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 39 20.09.11 11:02 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 40 20.09.11 11:02 L.U.C collection Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 41 20.09.11 11:02 L .U.C COLLEC TION The L.U.C collection bearing the initials of Louis-Ulysse Chopard is a tribute to the man who in 1860 created a watch manufactory named after him in Sonvilier, a village in the Swiss Jura. A tribute driven by passion. A passion for beauty, for art, and for Haute Horlogerie. The passion of a man, Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, who created Chopard Manufacture in 1996. In less than twenty years, this watch firm has earned the enviable title of a genuine manufacture, since it has incorporated within its walls the entire range of Haute Horlogerie professions and created this collection of exceptional timepieces. Its level of integration currently enables it to design, develop and produce all its own calibres and to cultivate a level of inventiveness such that its four latest creations, housing four new calibres, were simultaneously presented in 2010 to celebrate Chopard’s 150 th anniversary. Each, in its own way, conveys a specific message from the venerable House. - L.U.C Calibre 06.01-L (L.U.C EHG) and its watch, L.U.C Louis-Ulysse – The Tribute, display Chopard’s profound attachment to horological traditions and its support for a school that perpetuates them: the prestigious Geneva Watchmaking School, the oldest of its kind in Switzerland. - L.U.C Calibre 04.01-L (L.U.C 1TRM) driving the L.U.C Engine One Tourbillon model symbolises the future of the company and its ability to break free of traditional watchmaking codes. - L.U.C Calibre 01.01-L (L.U.C 1.010) testifies to its capacity to produce high-quality generic movements. - L.U.C Calibre 05.01-L (L.U.C 4TQE) powering the L.U.C 150 “All-in-One” watch is a compendium of the watchmaking expertise acquired by Chopard Manufacture since its creation in 1996. 42 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 42 20.09.11 11:02 The level of reliability and quality reached by L.U.C calibres enables them all to earn chronometer certification from the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC), and many of them to achieve the rare distinction of also bearing such prestigious quality labels as those of the Fleurier Quality Foundation or the Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark. All display unfailing respect for the inherent characteristics of this collection: high frequency, a guarantee of precision; a 22-carat gold oscillating weight for the self-winding movements; as well as exceptional decorations both on the bridges and the mainplate. These same high demands are reflected in the finishing of the watches themselves, timepieces intended for a clientele looking for technical sophistication as well as fine watchmaking tradition and expertise, and above all elegance. This extreme degree of precision and finishing justifies the rarity of L.U.C watches, since less than 5,000 a year are born each year in the Chopard Manufacture workshops. 43 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 43 20.09.11 11:02 L .U.C COLLEC TION / 150TH ANNIVERSARY L.U.C 150 “All-in-One” The L.U.C 150 “All-in-One” was launched on the occasion of Chopard’s 150th anniversary. Such an exceptional celebration deserved an exceptional watch, which represents the sum of expertise acquired by Chopard Manufacture since its creation in 1996, and is the most complex model made to date. Witness the characteristics of its calibre for which five patents have been registered: L.U.C Calibre 05.01-L (L.U.C 4TQE) houses fourteen complications within an area measuring 33 mm in diameter and 11.75 mm thick. It is equipped with a Variner® balance wheel, an exclusive Chopard feature that consists of incorporating into the rim or felly of the balance wheel four inertia-blocks serving to finely adjust the inertia without disturbing the aerodynamics. Oscillating at a rhythm of 28,800 vibrations per hour, it counts off the hours, minutes and seconds with the extreme precision imparted by its tourbillon, while guaranteeing a 7-day power reserve thanks to its four barrels (L.U.C Quattro technology). Its other functions are displayed in an original manner on both the front and back of this model. The dial side shows an instant perpetual calendar indicating the date, the day, the month and the four years of the leap-year cycle, as well as a 24-hour indicator which is extremely useful when setting the watch to the correct time. 44 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 44 20.09.11 11:02 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 45 20.09.11 11:02 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 46 20.09.11 11:02 The reverse side of L.U.C Calibre 05.01-L (L.U.C 4TQE) is visible through the transparent case-back. Apart from the power reserve, it is entirely dedicated to astronomical functions, since it features first and foremost the equation of time, a function expressing in minutes the difference between true solar noon – the exact time when the sun actually reaches its zenith – and legal noon as indicated by the watch. It also displays sunrise and sunset times in Geneva, a day/night indication, as well as a spectacular view of the night sky complete with an orbital astronomic-precision moon-phase display. The sophistication of its movement is equalled only by the refinement of its exterior finish: an 18-carat solid gold case with a blend of satin-brushed and polished surfaces, solid gold guilloché dials, and a black hand-sewn alligator leather strap lined with cognaccoloured alligator leather. A wealth of details that combine to form a truly exceptional piece of watchmaking. 47 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 47 20.09.11 11:02 L .U.C COLLEC TION / 150TH ANNIVERSARY L.U.C 150 “All-in-One” The L.U.C 150 “All-in-One” is chronometer-certified by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC) and bears the prestigious Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark. It is issued in two limited, numbered series of 15 in 18-carat white gold and 15 in 18-carat rose gold. Functions Tourbillon, perpetual calendar Indications [dial side] hours, minutes, small seconds, date, days, months, leap years, 24-hour display; [case-back side] power-reserve indicator, equation of time, sunrise and sunset times calculated for Geneva, day/night display, orbital moon-phase display Certifications Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark, COSC certificate Movement L.U.C 05.01-L (L.U.C 4TQE), hand-wound (page 162) Diameter 33.00 mm Thickness 11.75 mm Power reserve Approx. 170 hours (7 days), L.U.C Quattro technology (four barrels - two sets of two stacked barrels) Frequency 4 Hz or 28,800 vibrations per hour Balance wheel Variner® Balance spring With Phillips terminal curve Jewels 42 Case Diameter 46.00 mm Thickness 18.50 mm Glass Glareproofed scratch-resistant sapphire crystal Case-back Sapphire crystal Water resistance 30 metres Strap Hand-sewn alligator leather with pin buckle in 18-carat gold 48 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 48 20.09.11 11:02 L.U.C 150 “All-in-One” Reference 161925-1001 Material 18-carat white gold Diameter 46.00 mm Limited edition 15 L.U.C 150 “All-in-One” Reference 161925-5001 Material 18-carat rose gold Diameter 46.00 mm Limited edition 15 49 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 49 20.09.11 11:02 L .U.C COLLEC TION / 150TH ANNIVERSARY L.U.C Louis-Ulysse – The Tribute The L.U.C Louis-Ulysse – The Tribute watch pays homage to the founder of the Chopard brand. Its very nature embodies the ties between historical and contemporary watchmaking, since it is a pocket watch supplied with an 18-carat white gold watch chain and which can also be worn on the wrist by fixing it securely to a cradle fitted with a leather strap. This clever system is directly inspired by an invention of Karl Scheufele I, great-grandfather of Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, who had filed a patent in the early 20th century for lugs that could be fitted to a pocket watch in order to transform it into a wristwatch. The original “adjustable lugs” have now been replaced by an extremely reliable and userfriendly cradle system. The case is placed inside it and firmly clasped between the lugs by means of a simple quarter-turn of the cradle base. 50 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 50 20.09.11 11:02 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 51 20.09.11 11:02 L .U.C COLLEC TION / 150TH ANNIVERSARY The transparent case-back provides ample scope to admire the L.U.C Calibre 06.01-L (L.U.C EHG) with its refined finishes: bevelled nickel silver bridges, Côtes de Genève decoration, finely gilded inscriptions and a “swan’s-neck” index assembly form an extremely refined ensemble entirely in tune with the finest watchmaking traditions. Bearing the prestigious Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark and chronometer-certified by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (based on pocket watch-specific criteria), this movement was jointly developed by Chopard Manufacture and the Geneva Watchmaking School – EHG. While the latter no longer had enough parts for the movement enabling apprentices to make their “school piece”, the former was keen to develop a pocketwatch movement with a view to creating a new model. This convergence of interests led to the birth of L.U.C Calibre 06.01-L (L.U.C EHG): this movement enables the students at the prestigious Watchmaking School to create a new school piece – a personal creation that plays a landmark role in the career of any watchmaker – while providing Chopard Manufacture with a chance to affirm its support for training the next generation of watchmakers and also paying tribute to Geneva, its host city since 1937. In order to ensure the continuity of this partnership and thus provide support for the entire profession, Chopard has guaranteed EHG a steady supply of the components for this calibre for the next 30 years. 52 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 52 20.09.11 11:02 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 53 20.09.11 11:02 L .U.C COLLEC TION / 150TH ANNIVERSARY L.U.C Louis-Ulysse – The Tribute Inspired by an historical Chopard pocket watch now reinterpreted as a contemporary object, the L.U.C. Louis Ulysse – The Tribute watch is issued in a limited numbered edition of 150 in 18-carat white gold, commemorating Chopard’s 150th anniversary. Indications Hours, minutes, small seconds Certifications Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark, COSC certificate Pocket-watch movement L.U.C 06.01-L (L.U.C EHG), hand-wound (page 166) Diameter 43.20 mm Thickness 5.50 mm Power reserve 80 hours Frequency 3 Hz or 21,600 vibrations per hour Balance wheel With two spokes, with screws Balance spring Flat Jewels 20 Case Diameter 49.60 mm Thickness 14.45 mm Glass Glareproofed scratch-resistant sapphire crystal Case-back Sapphire crystal Water resistance 30 metres Strap Hand-sewn alligator leather with pin buckle in 18-carat gold 54 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 54 20.09.11 11:02 L.U.C Louis-Ulysse – The Tribute Reference 161923-1001 Material 18-carat white gold Diameter 49.60 mm Limited edition 150 55 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 55 20.09.11 11:02 L .U.C COLLEC TION / 150TH ANNIVERSARY L.U.C 1937 The fact that the L.U.C 1937 watches are named after the date when Chopard chose to leave the Jura to set up its manufacture in Geneva is no coincidence. Not only does this date represent a milestone in the company history, but these models and the calibres also constitute elements that are shaping its future. Their pure, understated lines and their sunburst satin-brushed slate grey or porcelain-type dial meet the requirements of the Chopard collection which is designed to include pure, classical models in keeping with the brand’s horological heritage. L.U.C Calibre 1.01-L (L.U.C 1.010) is an investment in the future. Designed, developed and assembled by Chopard Manufacture, its functions are so simple that it has only a date and a stop-seconds function to facilitate time-setting. Meanwhile, its exceptional technological level endows it with numerous qualities: a 60-hour power reserve, a high frequency, easy assembly and maintenance, excellent reliability, and above all impressive sturdiness. 56 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 56 20.09.11 11:02 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 57 20.09.11 11:02 L .U.C COLLEC TION / 150TH ANNIVERSARY L.U.C 1937 The L.U.C 1937 watch is available in steel with a slate grey dial in a limited numbered series of 1,937. This model and its movement were presented in 2010 on the occasion of Chopard’s 150th anniversary. Indications Hours, minutes, seconds, date Certifications COSC certificate Movement L.U.C 01.01-L (L.U.C 1.010), self-winding (page 170) Diameter 28.80 mm Thickness 4.95 mm Power reserve 60 hours Oscillating weight Heavy metal Frequency 4 Hz or 28,800 vibrations per hour Balance wheel With four spokes, with screws Balance spring Flat Jewels 31 Case Diameter 42.00 mm Thickness 11.39 mm Glass Glareproofed scratch-resistant sapphire crystal Case-back Sapphire crystal Water resistance 100 metres Strap Hand-sewn alligator leather with pin buckle in steel 58 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 58 20.09.11 11:02 L.U.C 1937 Reference 168527-3001 Material Stainless steel Diameter 42.00 mm Limited edition 1937 59 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 59 20.09.11 11:02 L .U.C COLLEC TION / 150TH ANNIVERSARY L.U.C 1937 Classic Loyal to the philosophy of the L.U.C 1937 watch, these models assert their nobility through their uncluttered classicism. Their functions are pared down to essentials: hours, minutes, central seconds and a date. They are displayed by the “Dauphine fusée” hands typical of the L.U.C collection. Their slender design, combined with a minute track, enables extremely precise reading. Indications Hours, minutes, seconds, date Certifications COSC certificate Movement L.U.C 01.01-L (L.U.C 1.010), self-winding (page 170) Diameter 28.80 mm Thickness 4.95 mm Power reserve 60 hours Oscillating weight Heavy metal Frequency 4 Hz or 28,800 vibrations per hour Balance wheel With four spokes, micro-regulator with screws Balance spring Flat Jewels 31 Case Diameter 42.00 mm Thickness 11.39 mm Glass Glareproofed scratch-resistant sapphire crystal Case-back Sapphire crystal Water resistance 100 metres Strap Hand-sewn alligator leather with pin buckle in steel 60 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 60 20.09.11 11:02 L.U.C 1937 Classic Reference 168544-3001 Material Stainless steel Diameter 42.00 mm L.U.C 1937 Classic Reference 168544-3002 Material Stainless steel Diameter 42.00 mm 61 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 61 20.09.11 11:02 L .U.C COLLEC TION / 150TH ANNIVERSARY L.U.C Engine One Tourbillon The automobile and watchmaking worlds share the same passion for performance and fine mechanics. The L.U.C Engine One Tourbillon watch enshrines the encounter between these two worlds. This microtechnical masterpiece is distinguished by its “motorisation”: L.U.C Calibre 04.01-L (L.U.C 1TRM), a shaped movement entirely designed, developed and produced by Chopard Manufacture. This calibre is machined like a reamed engine block and bears the Chopard signature. In order to protect it from shocks, the company engineers have mounted it on silent blocks, while three clamps hold it securely to the case middle. In terms of performance, the precision of its tourbillon escapement, beating at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour, is certified by the chronometer rating certificate granted by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC). In terms of functions, it displays the hours, minutes and small seconds – the latter appearing on the tourbillon carriage – while the 60-hour power reserve is shown just opposite at 12 o’clock, directly on the mainplate. 62 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 62 20.09.11 11:02 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 63 20.09.11 11:02 L .U.C COLLEC TION / 150TH ANNIVERSARY The automobile inspiration is also reflected in the “bodywork” of this mechanical marvel: carved out of titanium, its inimitable shape and its polished and satin-brushed surfaces give it a sleek, sophisticated style. The curve of its screw-down lugs that are as streamlined as car wings enhances the overall dynamic appeal of this model. The total absence of dial makes this a “jewel case” that appears to be designed exclusively to highlight the beauty of the engine it houses. 64 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 64 20.09.11 11:02 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 65 20.09.11 11:03 L .U.C COLLEC TION / 150TH ANNIVERSARY L.U.C Engine One Tourbillon The L.U.C Engine One Tourbillon model is issued in three limited numbered series of 150 in titanium in tribute to Chopard’s 150th anniversary; 100 in white polished titanium; and 100 in titanium hardened by a titalyt® coating, with orange hour-markers. Functions Tourbillon Indications Hours, minutes, small seconds, power-reserve indicator Certifications COSC certificate Movement L.U.C 04.01-L (L.U.C 1TRM), hand-wound (page 164) Dimensions 34.00 x 25.90 mm Thickness 5.60 mm Power reserve Approx. 60 hours Frequency 4 Hz or 28,800 vibrations per hour Balance wheel Variner® Balance spring With Phillips terminal curve Jewels 29 Case Dimensions 44.40 x 35.40 mm Thickness 10.90 mm Glass Glareproofed scratch-resistant sapphire crystal Case-back Sapphire crystal Water resistance 50 metres Strap Hand-sewn alligator leather with pin buckle in titanium 66 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 66 20.09.11 11:03 L.U.C Engine One Tourbillon Reference 168526-3001 Material Titanium Dimensions 44.40 x 35.40 mm Limited edition 150 L.U.C Engine One Tourbillon Reference 168526-3002 Material Titanium Dimensions 44.40 x 35.40 mm Limited edition 100 L.U.C Engine One Tourbillon Reference 168526-3003 Material Titanium Dimensions 44.40 x 35.40 mm Limited edition 100 67 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 67 20.09.11 11:03 L .U.C COLLEC TION / TOURBILLONS Tourbillons Of all horological complications, the tourbillon is undoubtedly the most prestigious. This clever device, invented over two centuries ago, is designed to enhance the precision of the movement by releasing its escapement from the detrimental influence of gravity. This regulating organ, composed of the balance wheel, the balance spring, the pallet lever and the lever wheel, is enclosed within a carriage that rotates in order to compensate for the successive disturbances caused by the effects of gravity on these components. This device results in significantly increased precision, as is confirmed by the fact that L.U.C models equipped with a tourbillon, which all earn chronometer certification from the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC), score the highest success rates in these tests. 68 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 68 20.09.11 11:03 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 69 20.09.11 11:03 L .U.C COLLEC TION / TOURBILLONS While all boast an exceptional level of precision, their shared technical characteristics also ensure a level of sturdiness and user friendliness that is unusual for a complication that is so complex and difficult to create. In terms of user friendliness, they all have a 216-hour (9-day) power reserve clearly displayed on the dial, and small seconds display on the tourbillon carriage, since the latter performs one rotation per minute. In terms of their robustness, these movements are subjected to extremely rigorous tests aimed at ensuring their resistance to shocks. All are equipped with Chopard’s exclusive Variner® balance wheel, boasting a reliability based on its high level of inertia – 9.37 mg.cm 2 – and four inertia-blocks fitted on its rim enabling fine and lasting adjustment while not interfering with its aerodynamic qualities. 70 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 70 20.09.11 11:03 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 71 20.09.11 11:03 L .U.C COLLEC TION / TOURBILLONS A guarantee of enhanced precision, the Variner® balance wheel has a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour. Despite the extremely traditional nature of the tourbillon complication, it is also a test bench within Chopard Manufacture for new technologies and new materials. The L.U.C Tourbillon watch collection is a perfect example of the inventiveness that Chopard Manufacture can demonstrate around a given theme. This particular quality is vividly displayed across a broad range of products, ranging from the purest traditional models, such as the L.U.C Tourbillon Esprit de Fleurier, to the most cutting-edge technical and aesthetic innovations such as those of the L.U.C Tourbillon Tech Twist which unites several state-of-the-art materials (carbon, aluminium, silicon) within a single watch and its calibre. An inventiveness that is all the more remarkable in that it is directed solely towards enhancing the beauty, the sturdiness and the precision of products – a set of objectives masterfully fulfilled in the L.U.C Triple Certification Tourbillon model, judging by the fact it has earned three certifications: a COSC, the Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark and the Fleurier Quality Foundation label. A first in the field of Haute Horlogerie. 72 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 72 20.09.11 11:03 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 73 20.09.11 11:03 L .U.C COLLEC TION / TOURBILLONS L.U.C Tourbillon Tech Twist The L.U.C. Tourbillon Tech Twist is a vivid example of the most traditional watchmaking art and of the capacity to rewrite the codes of this field displayed by a leading manufacture. Built around the most classic of the major complications, the tourbillon, it dares to offset the latter’s position, to open the dial to provide views of the components, to clothe it in carbon machined from the block or even palladium, to introduce silicon and aluminium into its regulating organ, and to clothe its bridges and mainplate with a black PVD treatment underscoring the technical and contemporary design. The result is a model at the crossroads between traditional watchmaking and tomorrow’s technologies. Functions Tourbillon Indications Hours, minutes, small seconds, power-reserve indicator Certifications COSC certificate Movement L.U.C 02.12-L (L.U.C 4TBSTSi), hand-wound (page 184) Diameter 29.70 mm Thickness 6.10 mm Power reserve Approx. 216 hours (9 days), L.U.C Quattro technology (four barrels - two sets of two stacked barrels) Frequency 4 Hz or 28,800 vibrations per hour Balance wheel Variner® Balance spring With Phillips terminal curve Tourbillon carriage Aluminium Escapement Silicon Jewels 33 Case Diameter 42.00 mm Thickness 13.38 mm Glass Glareproofed scratch-resistant sapphire crystal Case-back Sapphire crystal Water resistance 30 metres Strap Hand-sewn alligator leather with pin buckle in palladium (168529-9001) or in titanium (161917-9001). Special calfskin edition also available for the carbon version (168529-9001) 74 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 74 20.09.11 11:03 L.U.C Tourbillon Tech Twist Reference 161917-9001 Material Palladium Diameter 42.00 mm Limited edition 50 L.U.C Tourbillon Tech Twist Reference 168529-9001 Material Carbon Diameter 42.00 mm Limited edition 25 75 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 75 20.09.11 11:03 L .U.C COLLEC TION / TOURBILLONS L.U.C Tourbillon Tech Twist Like the models in carbon and palladium, the L.U.C Tourbillon Tech Twist represents a different kind of tourbillon, interpreted in a more traditional but also more contrasting style. Its openworked black dial highlights the silver tones of L.U.C Calibre 02-11-L (L.U.C 4TBST), designed, developed and made by Chopard Manufacture. It features an exclusive winding assistance system easily ensuring a 9-day power reserve. Available in 18-carat white or rose gold, it is issued in a limited numbered series of 100. Functions Tourbillon Indications Hours, minutes, small seconds, power-reserve indicator Certifications COSC certificate Movement L.U.C 02.11-L (L.U.C 4TBST), hand-wound (page 184) Diameter 29.70 mm Thickness 6.10 mm Power reserve Approx. 216 hours (9 days), L.U.C Quattro technology (four barrels - two sets of two stacked barrels) Frequency 4 Hz or 28,800 vibrations per hour Balance wheel Variner® Balance spring With Phillips terminal curve Tourbillon carriage Aluminium Jewels 33 Case Diameter 42.00 mm Thickness 13.38 mm Glass Glareproofed scratch-resistant sapphire crystal Case-back Sapphire crystal Water resistance 30 metres Strap Hand-sewn alligator leather with folding clasp in 18-carat gold 76 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 76 20.09.11 11:03 L.U.C Tourbillon Tech Twist Reference 161917-1001 Material 18-carat white gold Diameter 42.00 mm Limited edition 100 L.U.C Tourbillon Tech Twist Reference 161917-5001 Material 18-carat rose gold Diameter 42.00 mm Limited edition 100 77 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 77 20.09.11 11:03 L .U.C COLLEC TION / TOURBILLONS L.U.C Tourbillon SL The L.U.C Tourbillon SL watch offers fresh proof of the technical expertise and flair for design exercised by Chopard Manufacture. Its case is in titanium (grade 5), which makes it ultra-light, totally corrosion resistant, and biocompatible. Its aluminium tourbillon carriage is two and a half times lighter than its equivalent in steel, and the translucent sapphire crystal bridge supporting it sets it off to particular advantage. The overall effect, composed of subtly varied shades of grey against which the blue hands and the red powerreserve display stand out in striking contrast, radiates an impression of sophisticated high-tech elegance. Functions Tourbillon Indications Hours, minutes, small seconds, power-reserve indicator Certifications COSC certificate Movement L.U.C 02.08-L (L.U.C 4TSL), hand-wound (page 186) Diameter 29.70 mm Thickness 6.10 mm Power reserve Approx. 216 hours (9 days), L.U.C Quattro technology (four barrels - two sets of two stacked barrels) Frequency 4 Hz or 28,800 vibrations per hour Balance wheel Variner® Balance spring With Phillips terminal curve Tourbillon carriage Aluminium Jewels 33 Case Diameter 40.50 mm Thickness 10.90 mm Glass Glareproofed scratch-resistant sapphire crystal Case-back Sapphire crystal Water resistance 30 metres Strap Hand-sewn alligator leather with steel pin buckle 78 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 78 20.09.11 11:03 L.U.C Tourbillon SL Reference 168502-3001 Material Titanium Diameter 40.50 mm Limited edition 100 79 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 79 20.09.11 11:03 L .U.C COLLEC TION / TOURBILLONS L.U.C Tourbillon Tech Steel Wings The “Tech” concept developed by Chopard Manufacture in this model proves that tradition and modernity can make a perfect match, provided this association is done with talent. So here is a classically designed watch with a destructured dial providing an opportunity to admire L.U.C Calibre 02.03-L (L.U.C 4TT) against a fascinating backdrop of colours and perspectives. Beauty dedicated to technology, or perhaps the other way round. This model is available in two 100-piece limited numbered versions in 18-carat white and rose gold. Functions Tourbillon Indications Hours, minutes, small seconds, power-reserve indicator Certifications COSC certificate Movement L.U.C 02.03-L (L.U.C 4TT), hand-wound (page 185) Diameter 29.70 mm Thickness 6.10 mm Power reserve Approx. 216 hours (9 days), L.U.C Quattro technology (four barrels - two sets of two stacked barrels) Frequency 4 Hz or 28,800 vibrations per hour Balance wheel Variner® Balance spring With Phillips terminal curve Jewels 33 Case Diameter 40.50 mm Thickness 10.90 mm Glass Glareproofed scratch-resistant sapphire crystal Case-back Sapphire crystal Water resistance 30 metres Strap Hand-sewn alligator leather with folding clasp in 18-carat gold 80 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 80 20.09.11 11:03 L.U.C Tourbillon Tech Steel Wings Reference 161901-1001 Material 18-carat white gold Diameter 40.50 mm Limited edition 100 L.U.C Tourbillon Tech Steel Wings Reference 161901-5002 Material 18-carat rose gold Diameter 40.50 mm Limited edition 100 81 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 81 20.09.11 11:03 L .U.C COLLEC TION / TOURBILLONS /8&7ULSOH&HUWLÀFDWLRQ7RXUELOORQ The L.U.C Triple Certification Tourbillon is a genuinely exceptional model in that it is the world’s first timepiece to simultaneously bear the COSC and Fleurier Quality Foundation certifications as well as the Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark. These are all attributed by independent bodies and while the first two guarantee an exceptional level of performances in terms of precision and reliability, the third also confirms the prestigious origin and the highest standards of craftsmanship embodied in this model. In terms of functions, the L.U.C Triple Certification Tourbillon displays the essentials: hours, minutes, and small seconds borne by the tourbillon carriage. It also proudly showcases its exceptional 9-day power reserve at 12 o’clock. Functions Tourbillon Indications Hours, minutes, small seconds, power-reserve indicator Certifications COSC certificate, Fleurier Quality Foundation certificate, Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark Movement L.U.C 02.13-L (L.U.C 1.02QF), hand-wound (page 186) Diameter 29.70 mm Thickness 6.10 mm Power reserve Approx. 216 hours (9 days), L.U.C Quattro technology (four barrels - two sets of two stacked barrels) Frequency 4 Hz or 28,800 vibrations per hour Balance wheel Variner® Balance spring With Phillips terminal curve Jewels 33 Case Diameter 43.00 mm Thickness 11.15 mm Glass Glareproofed scratch-resistant sapphire crystal Case-back Sapphire crystal Water resistance 50 metres Strap Hand-sewn alligator leather with pin buckle in 18-carat gold 82 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 82 20.09.11 11:03 L.U.C Triple Certification Tourbillon Reference 161929-5001 Material 18-carat rose gold Diameter 43.00 mm Limited edition 100 83 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 83 20.09.11 11:03 L .U.C COLLEC TION / TOURBILLONS L.U.C Tourbillon Esprit de Fleurier The L.U.C Tourbillon Esprit de Fleurier watch is a tribute to the so-called fleurisanne engraving technique, an artistic craft which, from the late 18th century onwards, forged the success of its native village of Fleurier and contributed to spreading its reputation as far as afield as China. Now all but extinct, fleurisanne engraving is distinguished by its raised motifs, since the engraver’s work consists not in sculpting by hollowing, but instead in sparing the motif and removing the material surrounding it in order to make it stand out. The 18-carat gold bridges and mainplate of L.U.C Calibre 02.10-L1 (L.U.C 4TT3NGM) are entirely decorated. The difficulty in making this piece justifies its rarity: Chopard Manufacture has produced just 15, crafted in 18-carat white gold. Functions Tourbillon Indications Hours, minutes, small seconds, power-reserve indicator Certifications COSC certificate Movement L.U.C 02.10-L1 (L.U.C 4TT3NGM), hand-wound (page 185) Diameter 29.70 mm Thickness 6.10 mm Power reserve Approx. 216 hours (9 days), L.U.C Quattro technology (four barrels - two sets of two stacked barrels) Frequency 4 Hz or 28,800 vibrations per hour Balance wheel Variner® Balance spring With Phillips terminal curve Jewels 33 Case Diameter 40.50 mm Thickness 10.90 mm Glass Glareproofed scratch-resistant sapphire crystal Case-back Sapphire crystal Water resistance 30 metres Strap Hand-sewn alligator leather with pin buckle in 18-carat gold 84 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 84 20.09.11 11:03 L.U.C Tourbillon Esprit de Fleurier Reference 161911-1001 Material 18-carat white gold Diameter 40.50 mm Limited edition 15 85 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 85 20.09.11 11:03 L .U.C COLLEC TION / MOON PHASES Moon phases The sight of the celestial bodies in motion has fascinated humankind since time immemorial. Among them, the moon has a place all its own, as a familiar face so apparently close to us and which embodies nocturnal beauty while inspiring countless myths and legends. The L.U.C Lunar One models featuring moon phases display them in a particularly original and accurate manner. Original because it is an “orbital” display, with the representation of the moon and the way in which the sun's light makes it visible to us achieved by two concentric discs rotating at different speeds against the background of a starlit sky. And accurate because this complication loses just one day in 122 years. These micromechanical masterpieces manage to keep very close track of the real average length of time between two full moons: 29 days, 12 hours, 44 minutes and 2.9 seconds, and thus deserve the title of “high-precision” moon-phase models. 86 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 86 20.09.11 11:03 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 87 20.09.11 11:03 L .U.C COLLEC TION / MOON PHASES The self-winding calibres driving these models are endowed with a 65-hour power reserve thanks to their two stacked barrels (L.U.C Twin technology). They are equipped with a 22-carat gold oscillating weight visible through the transparent case-back and are chronometer-certified by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC), a guarantee of the movement’s precision and reliability. 88 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 88 20.09.11 11:03 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 89 20.09.11 11:03 L .U.C COLLEC TION / MOON PHASES L.U.C Lunar One In addition to their high-precision moon-phase display, the L.U.C Lunar One models boast a further technical nicety in that they are able to display the moon phase as seen from the Northern or Southern hemisphere, in accordance with the owner’s wishes. Another astronomical type of function featured in these models, the instant-display perpetual calendar, shows the day of the week, the date, the month, the leap year, along with a 24-hour indicator that is useful when setting the time In an ultimate touch of refinement, their dial and hands are in 18-carat solid gold. Their calibre, chronometer-certified by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC), also bears the prestigious Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark. The L.U.C Lunar One watch is available in limited numbered series of 250 in 18-carat gold or platinum. Functions Perpetual calendar Indications Hours, minutes, small seconds, date, days, months, four-year leap-year cycle, orbital moon-phase display Certifications Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark, COSC certificate Movement 96.13-L (L.U.C 96QP), self-winding (page 174) Diameter 33.00 mm Thickness 6.00 mm Power reserve Approx. 65 hours, L.U.C Twin technology (two stacked barrels) Oscillating weight 22-carat gold Frequency 4 Hz or 28,800 vibrations per hour Balance wheel With three spokes Balance spring With Phillips terminal curve Jewels 32 Case Diameter 40.50 mm Thickness 11.40 mm Glass Glareproofed scratch-resistant sapphire crystal Case-back Glareproofed sapphire crystal Water resistance 30 metres Strap Hand-sewn alligator leather with folding clasp in 18-carat gold or platinum 90 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 90 20.09.11 11:03 L.U.C Lunar One Reference 161894-9001 Material Platinum Diameter 40.50 mm Limited edition 250 L.U.C Lunar One Reference 161894-1001 Material 18-carat white gold Diameter 40.50 mm Limited edition 250 L.U.C Lunar One Reference 161894-5001 Material 18-carat rose gold Diameter 40.50 mm Limited edition 250 91 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 91 20.09.11 11:03 L .U.C COLLEC TION / STRIKING MECHANISMS Striking mechanisms In the world of Haute Horlogerie, striking watches are in a league of their own, since they are the exclusive preserve of a few rare manufactures which alone are capable of designing, developing and crafting their movements. Creating the latter calls for a combination of micromechanical and acoustic skills. A powerful and crystal-clear sound, produced by a mechanism that does not affect the precision of a watch and has the least possible impact on its power reserve: such are the goals successfully met by Chopard in creating the L.U.C Calibre 96.14-L (L.U.C 96SH) and L.U.C Calibre 96.14-L1 (L.U.C 96SHT) movements respectively equipping the L.U.C Strike One and L.U.C Tech Strike One watches. 92 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 92 20.09.11 11:03 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 93 20.09.11 11:03 L .U.C COLLEC TION / STRIKING MECHANISMS These watches are equipped with a metal gong-ring wrapped right around the inside of the case, and with a tiny hammer that strikes it every hour on the hour. This mechanism is visible through a window in the dial between 12 and 1 o’clock. A pusher on the case middle at 10 o’clock services to deactivate it by switching it from the “strike” position – represented by a musical quaver – to the “silence” position – represented by a quaver rest. The small seconds are displayed in an original way by a single disc that is half visible at 6 o’clock. The L.U.C 96.14-L (L.U.C 96SH) and L.U.C 96.14-L1 (L.U.C 96SHT) self-winding calibres have a 65-hour power reserve thanks to their double-barrel L.U.C Twin system. Chronometer-certified by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC), they are visible through the transparent case-back revealing the Côtes de Genève decoration and the 22-carat gold oscillating weight. 94 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 94 20.09.11 11:03 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 95 20.09.11 11:03 L .U.C COLLEC TION / STRIKING MECHANISMS L.U.C Strike One The L.U.C Strike One displays the fascinating charms of striking watches in a classic version featuring a dial adorned with a sunburst guilloché motif centred on the window indicating whether the watch is in silence or striking mode; an aperture showing the hammer and the magical moment when it is set into motion; and a chapter ring forming a kind of golden gridwork motif revealing discreet glimpses of the metal gong-ring. This wealth of refined touches pays tribute to the tradition of fine watchmaking. The L.U.C Strike One watch is issued in a limited numbered series of 100 in 18-carat rose gold. Functions Hourly strike Indications Hours, minutes, small seconds, date Certifications COSC certificate Movement L.U.C 96.14-L (L.U.C 96SH), self-winding (page 175) Diameter 33.00 mm Thickness 5.75 mm Power reserve Approx. 65 hours, L.U.C Twin technology (two stacked barrels) Oscillating weight 22-carat gold Frequency 4 Hz or 28,800 vibrations per hour Balance wheel With three spokes Balance spring With Phillips terminal curve Jewels 33 Case Diameter 40.50 mm Thickness 10.90 mm Glass Glareproofed scratch-resistant sapphire crystal Case-back Sapphire crystal Water resistance 30 metres Strap Hand-sewn alligator leather with pin buckle in 18-carat gold 96 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 96 20.09.11 11:03 L.U.C Strike One Reference 161912-5002 Material 18-carat rose gold Diameter 40.50 mm Limited edition 100 97 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 97 20.09.11 11:03 L .U.C COLLEC TION / STRIKING MECHANISMS L.U.C Tech Strike One In keeping with the philosophy of the Tech collection, the L.U.C Tech Strike One watch reveals the secrets of the striking mechanism that sounds at every change of the hour. The generous dial opening between 9 and 1 o’clock also provides admirable views of the finishing of L.U.C Calibre 96.14-L1 (L.U.C 96SHT). Entirely designed, developed and produced by Chopard Manufacture, this mechanical self-winding movement is chronometer-certified by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC). The watch is available in two limited series of 100 in 18-carat gold or titanium. Functions Hourly strike Indications Hours, minutes, small seconds, date Certifications COSC certificate Movement L.U.C 96.14-L (L.U.C 96SHT), self-winding Diameter 33.00 mm Thickness 5.75 mm Power reserve Approx. 65 hours, L.U.C Twin technology (two stacked barrels) Oscillating weight 22-carat gold Frequency 4 Hz or 28,800 vibrations per hour Balance wheel With three spokes Balance spring With Phillips terminal curve Jewels 33 Case Diameter 40.50 mm Thickness 10.90 mm Glass Glareproofed scratch-resistant sapphire crystal Case-back Sapphire crystal Water resistance 30 metres Strap Hand-sewn alligator leather with pin buckle in 18-carat gold or in steel 98 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 98 20.09.11 11:03 L.U.C Tech Strike One Reference 161912-5001 Material 18-carat rose gold Diameter 40.50 mm Limited edition 100 L.U.C Tech Strike One Reference 168510-3001 Material Titanium Diameter 40.50 mm Limited edition 100 99 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 99 20.09.11 11:03 L .U.C COLLEC TION > CHRONOGR APHS Chronographs In 2006, to celebrate the 10th anniversary of its founding, Chopard Manufacture wanted to create a movement testifying to its perfect mastery of Haute Horlogerie techniques. To achieve this, it developed a new calibre comprising a complication which, while it is one of the most widespread, is also one of the most complex to produce: the chronograph. The calibre it created, L.U.C Calibre 03.03-L (L.U.C 11CF), comprises the key features of highend chronographs, since the fully integrated complication operates with a column-wheel system and a vertical coupling clutch comprising a friction organ made from a viscoelastic material. Driven by a concern for precision and ergonomics, Chopard has also equipped it with three other patented devices, including a chronograph reset mechanism activating three supple hammers ensuring an optimal return of the three hands and effective absorption of the resulting impact. 100 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 100 20.09.11 11:03 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 101 20.09.11 11:03 L .U.C COLLEC TION > CHRONOGR APHS Time-setting the watch can be performed with the utmost precision in that L.U.C Calibre 03.03-L (L.U.C 11CF) features a small seconds reset system combined with a stop seconds device. The self-winding system is self-locking in order to ensure – thanks to its gear system – optimal winding whatever the rotation direction of the oscillating weight. Out of the same concern for efficiency, the latter is mounted on a ceramic ball-bearing mechanism that requires no lubrication. Thanks to its excellent performances and the precision guaranteed by its Variner® balance wheel, L.U.C Calibre 03.03-L (L.U.C 11CF) is chronometer-certified by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC). 102 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 102 20.09.11 11:03 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 103 20.09.11 11:03 L .U.C COLLEC TION > CHRONOGR APHS L.U.C Chrono One The L.U.C Chrono One watch is a tribute to classic and sporty chronographs, with its silver-toned dial featuring a sunburst motif surrounding the name of the company founder, Louis-Ulysse Chopard, along with its applied Roman numerals and black counters. The only concessions to a more contemporary approach to Haute Horlogerie are a few bright red accents appearing on the minute circle and the chronograph seconds hand, while the 44 mm case middle is equipped with integrated pushers framing the crown guard. Its mechanical self-winding L.U.C Calibre 03.03-L (L.U.C 11CF), visible through the transparent bevelled case-back, is equipped with a 22-carat gold oscillating weight. It has a 60-hour power reserve and comes with a chronometer rating certificate granted by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute. The L.U.C Chrono One is available in 18-carat white or rose gold. Functions Flyback chronograph Indications Hours, minutes, small seconds, date, chronograph seconds hand, 30-minute and 12-hour chronograph counters Certifications COSC certificate Movement L.U.C 03.03-L (L.U.C 11CF), self-winding (page 168) Diameter 28.80 mm Thickness 7.60 mm Power reserve Approx. 60 hours Oscillating weight 22-carat gold Frequency 4 Hz or 28,800 vibrations per hour Balance wheel Variner® Balance spring Flat Jewels 45 Case Diameter 44.00 mm Thickness 14.06 mm Glass Glareproofed scratch-resistant sapphire crystal Case-back Glareproofed sapphire crystal Water resistance 100 metres Strap Hand-sewn alligator leather with pin buckle in 18-carat gold 104 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 104 20.09.11 11:03 L.U.C Chrono One Reference 161928-5001 Material 18-carat rose gold Diameter 44.00 mm L.U.C Chrono One Reference 161928-1001 Material 18-carat white gold Diameter 44.00 mm 105 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 105 20.09.11 11:03 L .U.C COLLEC TION > CL ASSICS Ultra-thin watches Two or three hands, a dial, a case, a movement, a strap: and that sums it all up! The ultrathin watches in the L.U.C collection embody the very essence of a watch: simple objects concealing any underlying complexity and whose sole purpose is to tell the time while adopting a deliberately low profile. Their pared-down simplicity is based on ultra-thin cases with a slim bezel merging into plain-coloured dials adorned only with slender appliques, four Arabic numerals and majestic Dauphine hands. Their classic, resolutely horological design endows them with a timeless style beyond the reach of changing fashions. Their refined case, water-resistant to 30 metres, conceals the mechanical selfwinding L.U.C Calibre 96.17-L (L.U.C 96HM) for the L.U.C XP versions, or L.U.C Calibre 96.12-L (L.U.C 12.96) for the L.U.C XPS versions. These ultra-thin movements measuring a mere 3.30 mm thick have a 65-hour power reserve thanks to their two stacked barrels – L.U.C Twin technology. 106 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 106 20.09.11 11:03 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 107 20.09.11 11:03 L .U.C COLLEC TION > CL ASSICS L.U.C XP The L.U.C XP watch is the ultimate expression of classicism according to Chopard Manufacture. Discreet and elegant in terms of its design codes, it is equally so in size, since this ultra-thin model measuring less than 7 mm thick – 6.98 mm to be accurate – has a diameter of 39.5 mm. Its user-friendly mechanical self-winding L.U.C Calibre 96.17-L (L.U.C 96HM) is equipped with a 22-carat gold micro-rotor type oscillating weight and has a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour, a guarantee of precision and reliability. The L.U.C XP watch, available in 18-carat white or rose gold, was named Watch of the Year 2006 in the “ultra-thin” category by the jury of the Geneva Watchmaking Grand Prix. Indications Hours, minutes Movement L.U.C 96.17.L (L.U.C 96HM), self-winding (page 176) Diameter 27.40 mm Thickness 3.30 mm Power reserve Approx. 65 hours, L.U.C Twin technology (two stacked barrels) Oscillating weight 22-carat gold Frequency 4 Hz or 28,800 vibrations per hour Balance wheel With three spokes Balance spring Flat Jewels 29 Case Diameter 39.50 mm Thickness 6.98 mm Glass Glareproofed scratch-resistant sapphire crystal Water resistance 30 metres Strap Hand-sewn alligator leather with pin buckle in 18-carat gold 108 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 108 20.09.11 11:03 L.U.C XP Reference 161902-1001 Material 18-carat white gold Diameter 39.50 mm Thickness 6.98 mm L.U.C XP Reference 161902-5001 Material 18-carat rose gold Diameter 39.50 mm Thickness 6.98 mm 109 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 109 20.09.11 11:03 L .U.C COLLEC TION > CL ASSICS L.U.C XP Urushi If one were to sum up the L.U.C XP Urushi watches in a few words, they might best be described as blending the quintessence of ancestral Japanese art with the highest degree of Swiss horological refinement. Born from the encounter between Chopard and Japanese artist Kiichiro Masumura, proclaimed “Living National Treasure” by the authorities of his home country, they showcase the traditional techniques of Urushi and Maki-e. Urushi is an ancestral Japanese art of lacquering. The varnish is made from the sap of the Urushi tree, also known as the “lacquer tree” or the “Japanese varnish tree”, and which mainly grows in Japan and China. The harvesting of the resin can only be done once a year and in very small quantities. Three to five years after being harvested, the resin is treated to make an extremely resistant, honey-textured lacquer. It is applied in exceptionally fine successive layers. Maki-e is a specific Urushi technique that consists of sprinkling the lacquer with metal powder – in this case gold – in order to accentuate its contours. The gold dust is applied using bamboo tubes and small brushes made from rat’s hair, in order to trace extremely fine lines. 110 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 110 20.09.11 11:03 111 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 111 20.09.11 11:03 L .U.C COLLEC TION > CL ASSICS L.U.C XP Urushi Such works of art could not have hoped for a finer setting than that of the L.U.C XP. This supremely elegant ultra-thin model measuring a mere 6.98 mm thick is the epitome of perfect watchmaking mastery. Designing and producing a mechanical selfwinding movement equipped with two barrels and a 65-hour power reserve that could be accommodated within such a thin case is a truly impressive accomplishment. The watchmakers of Chopard Manufacture in Fleurier have achieved this feature by means of a clever construction based on an off-centred micro-rotor. The designers have also subtly worked the round case with its broad 39.50 mm diameter to give it a sleeker profile with a flat bezel and an extremely fine “caseband”. The result is a set of light, dynamic and supremely balanced lines. Featuring an 18-carat gold case fitted with a black alligator leather strap, the L.U.C XP Urushi models are delivered with a special presentation box also decorated according to Urushi techniques. Black on the outside and adorned in Maki-e gold on the inside, its octagonal shape is an oriental symbol of gaiety. A small silk cord serving as a lock, along with the seal of Kiichiro Masumura, endow this object with a truly timeless dimension. 112 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 112 20.09.11 11:03 113 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 113 20.09.11 11:03 L .U.C COLLEC TION > CL ASSICS L.U.C XP Urushi The L.U.C XP Urushi watches are available in 18-carat white or rose gold with various meticulously hand-painted dial variations featuring a wealth of original details imbued with a deep sense of poetry. These works represent the five basic elements of the universe according to the ancient philosophy of Chinese natural science. Five legendary creatures – the dragon with a blue horn, the phoenix, the qilin in the moonlight, the crouching tiger and the genbu (a blend of precious snake and tortoise) – respectively evoke wood, fire, earth, metal and water. The other dials of the line feature a peacock, a goldfish, the jungle and the universe. Indications Hours, minutes Movement L.U.C 96.17-L (L.U.C 96HM), self-winding (page 176) Diameter 27.40 mm Thickness 3.30 mm Power reserve approximately 65 hours, L.U.C Twin technology (twin superimposed barrels) Oscillating weight 22-carat gold Frequency 4 Hz or 28,800 vibrations per hour Balance With three spokes Balance spring Flat Jewels 29 Case Diameter 39.50 mm Thickness 6.98 mm Glass Glareproofed scratch-resistant sapphire crystal Water resistance 30 metres Strap Hand-sewn alligator leather strap with pin buckle in 18-carat gold 114 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 114 20.09.11 11:03 L.U.C XP Urushi Reference 161902-5045 Material 18ct rose gold Diameter 39.50 mm Thickness 6.98 mm L.U.C XP Urushi Reference 161902-5046 Material 18ct rose gold Diameter 39.50 mm Thickness 6.98 mm 115 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 115 20.09.11 11:03 L .U.C COLLEC TION > CL ASSICS L.U.C XP Urushi Reference 161902-5047 Material 18ct rose gold Diameter 39.50 mm Thickness 6.98 mm L.U.C XP Urushi Reference 161902-5049 Material 18ct rose gold Diameter 39.50 mm L.U.C XP Urushi Reference 161902-5050 Material 18ct rose gold Diameter 39.50 mm Thickness 6.98 mm 116 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 116 20.09.11 11:03 L.U.C XP Urushi Reference 161902-1021 Material 18ct white gold Diameter 39.50 mm Thickness 6.98 mm L.U.C XP Urushi Reference 161902-1023 Material 18ct white gold Diameter 39.50 mm Thickness 6.98 mm 117 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 117 20.09.11 11:03 L .U.C COLLEC TION > CL ASSICS L.U.C XPS The L.U.C XPS model combines the discretion of extreme slenderness with the technical sophistication of the small seconds appearing at 6 o’clock. This function enables it to earn chronometer certification by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC), a guarantee of the precision and reliability of its L.U.C Calibre 96.12-L (L.U.C 12.96) movement, visible through its transparent case-back. The embodiment of good taste and timelessly understated distinction, the L.U.C XPS watch is available in 18-carat white or rose gold. Indications Hours, minutes, small seconds Certifications COSC certificate Movement L.U.C 96.12-L (L.U.C 12.96), self-winding (page 177) Diameter 27.40 mm Thickness 3.30 mm Power reserve Approx. 65 hours, L.U.C Twin technology (two stacked barrels) Oscillating weight 22-carat gold Frequency 4 Hz or 28,800 vibrations per hour Balance wheel With three spokes Balance spring Flat Jewels 29 Case Diameter 39.50 mm Thickness 7.13 mm Glass Glareproofed scratch-resistant sapphire crystal Case-back Sapphire crystal Water resistance 30 metres Strap Hand-sewn alligator leather with pin buckle in 18-carat gold 118 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 118 20.09.11 11:03 L.U.C XPS Reference 161920-1001 Material 18-carat white gold Diameter 39.50 mm Thickness 7.13 mm L.U.C XPS Reference 161920-5001 Material 18-carat rose gold Diameter 39.50 mm Thickness 7.13 mm L.U.C XPS Reference 161920-1004 Material 18-carat white gold Diameter 39.50 mm Thickness 7.13 mm 119 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 119 20.09.11 11:03 L .U.C COLLEC TION > CL ASSICS L.U.C XP Tonneau The stylistic exercise of the tonneau or barrel-shaped watch is never insignificant. It testifies not only to a mastery of extremely distinctive aesthetic codes, but also to that of the most sophisticated watchmaking techniques. The L.U.C XP Tonneau is no exception to this rule. Its dial, built around a 6 – 12 o’clock symmetrical axis, radiates a supremely elegant equilibrium. Its chapter ring combining applied Arabic numerals and elegantly redesigned Dauphine hour-markers is a model of sobriety. The overall effect, highlighted by an extremely slender bezel and discreet lugs, exudes an impression of classicism to which the generously sized (40 x 37 mm) tonneau shape adds the perfect touch of originality and character. The transparent case-back reveals L.U.C Calibre 97.03-L (L.U.C 3.97) and confirms that this model complies with one of the fundamental principles of Haute Horlogerie: a shaped watch deserves a shaped calibre. Like most L.U.C calibres, this mechanical self-winding movement is equipped with a 22-carat gold micro-rotor, the inertia of which, combined with a bidirectional winding system and a double barrel, ensures a 65-hour power reserve. Measuring a mere 3.30 mm thick, it drives the hour, minute, small seconds and date functions. Its precision, guaranteed by an escapement frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour, serves to earn it the chronometer certification issued by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC) and proudly mentioned on the dial. Despite the tonneau design that makes it particularly difficult to ensure water resistance due to the unusual shape of the glasses and gaskets, the L.U.C XP Tonneau is indeed watertight to a depth of 50 metres. It is available in 18-carat white or rose gold. 120 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 120 20.09.11 11:03 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 121 20.09.11 11:03 L .U.C COLLEC TION > CL ASSICS L.U.C XP Tonneau Thanks to its scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, the transparent case-back of the L.U.C XP Tonneau watch provides ample views of the mechanical self-winding L.U.C Calibre 97.03-L (L.U.C 3.97), designed, developed and assembled by Chopard Manufacture. Its mainplate is circular grained, its micro-rotor in 22-carat gold is adorned with a sunburst guilloché motif, and its bridges are decorated with Côtes de Genève, while the technical details are engraved in fine gold lettering. The result is a stunning vision of perfect beauty and technical sophistication. Indications Hours, minutes, small seconds, date Certifications COSC certificate Movement L.U.C 97.03-L (L.U.C 3.97), self-winding (page 178) Dimensions 28.15 x 27.60 mm Thickness 3.30 mm Power reserve Approx. 65 hours, L.U.C Twin technology (two stacked barrels) Oscillating weight 22-carat gold Frequency 4 Hz or 28,800 vibrations per hour Balance wheel With three spokes Balance spring Flat Jewels 29 Case Dimensions 40.00 x 37.00 mm Thickness 7.22 mm Glass Glareproofed scratch-resistant sapphire crystal Case-back Sapphire crystal Water resistance 50 metres Strap Hand-sewn alligator leather with pin buckle in 18-carat gold 122 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 122 20.09.11 11:03 L.U.C XP Tonneau Reference 162294-1001 Material 18-carat white gold Size 40.00 x 37.00 mm Thickness 7.22 mm L.U.C XP Tonneau Reference 162294-5001 Material 18-carat rose gold Size 40.00 x 37.00 mm Thickness 7.22 mm 123 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 123 20.09.11 11:03 L .U.C COLLEC TION > CL ASSICS L.U.C Tech Twist Because it was well ahead of its time and revolutionised party codes, the twist made an indelible imprint on collective memory. Like this dance symbolising the “Magic Sixties”, the L.U.C Tech Twist watch overturns certain classic watchmaking codes while remaining true to their essence. A simple “five-minute” or 30° rotation of its movement lends it a truly unique character, offsetting the winding-crown from 3 to 4 o’clock and matching it with an asymmetrical crown guard and small seconds shifted from 6 to 7 o’clock. In terms of its movement, the L.U.C Tech Twist watch makes an extremely clear-cut choice: that of respect for the purest watchmaking traditions. Its mechanical self-winding L.U.C Calibre 96.18-L (L.U.C 96T) has been entirely designed, developed and assembled by Chopard in keeping with these time-honoured codes: a 3.30 mm ultra-thin movement chronometer-certified by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC), a 65-hour power reserve ensured by two stacked barrels, a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour, and exceptional finishing. Featuring a respectably sized 41 mm case, the L.U.C Tech Twist is in fact a classic watch that cleverly conceals its true nature. 12 4 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 124 20.09.11 11:03 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 125 20.09.11 11:03 L .U.C COLLEC TION > CL ASSICS L.U.C Tech Twist The highly technical character conferred by its dial opening onto the movement is reinforced by the overall asymmetrical effect that makes it look very much like a “timemeasuring machine”. The extremely contemporary side of the design nonetheless detracts nothing from the refined finishing, as evidenced by the decoration of the L.U.C Calibre 96.18-L (L.U.C 96T) and its gear wheels, as well as that of the bridge carrying the small seconds. This component, featuring a brushed surface and mirror-polished angles, creates a striking contrast with the black or blue chapter ring and serves as a reminder that Haute Horlogerie is first and foremost a matter of details, of expertise, and of tradition. The L.U.C Tech Twist watch is available in steel, 18-carat white gold and rose gold, respectively issued in limited series of 500, 250 and 250. Indications Hours, minutes, small seconds, date Certifications COSC certificate Movement L.U.C 96.18-L (L.U.C 96T), self-winding (page 177) Diameter 27.40 mm Thickness 3.30 mm Power reserve Approx. 65 hours, L.U.C Twin technology (two stacked barrels) Oscillating weight 22-carat gold Frequency 4 Hz or 28,800 vibrations per hour Balance wheel With three spokes Balance spring Flat Jewels 28 Case Diameter 41.00 mm Thickness 10.00 mm Glass Glareproofed scratch-resistant sapphire crystal Case-back Sapphire crystal Water resistance 30 metres Strap Hand-sewn alligator leather with pin buckle in 18-carat gold or steel 126 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 126 20.09.11 11:03 L.U.C Tech Twist Reference 161888-1002 Material 18-carat white gold Diameter 41.00 mm Limited edition 250 L.U.C Tech Twist Reference 168490-3004 Material Stainless steel Diameter 41.00 mm Limited edition 500 L.U.C Tech Twist Reference 161888-5003 Material 18-carat rose gold Diameter 41.00 mm Limited edition 250 127 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 127 20.09.11 11:03 L .U.C COLLEC TION > CL ASSICS Fleurier Quality In the field of certification, one rule overrides all others: a quality label placed on a product, whatever it may be, is valuable only if the label is granted by an independent body. For obvious reasons of objectivity, nobody should be a judge in his own cause. In order to guarantee the quality of some of its models, Chopard Manufacture has therefore chosen to call upon the Fleurier Quality Foundation, an official certification body created in 2001 and operating under the supervision of a Technical Committee and a Foundation Board. The independence of these two bodies is ensured by the support of Swiss public authorities, including the Swiss Federal Government itself. The certification process they implement consists of a succession of stages aiming to guarantee not only the watch movement’s precision, but also its reliability, its durability and the quality of its aesthetic finish. The precision is first of all tested by a benchmark in this field, the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute – the COSC – the only official body in Switzerland entitled to issue chronometer certificates. Durability and reliability are then verified by means of the “Chronofiable” test procedure: a representative sample of models are subjected to tests covering ageing and exposure to heat, cold and humidity, as well as to repeated pulling and pushing on the winding-stem, to magnetic fields and to violent impacts. These various operations endured over a full three weeks are designed to reproduce real-life wearing conditions. And finally, the precision of these watches is once again tested on the “Fleuritest” machine which verifies their smooth operation over a 24-hour period. It is thus clearly the global quality of the watch that is tested and guaranteed by the Fleurier Quality Foundation label. The L.U.C Qualité Fleurier models house L.U.C Calibre 96.09-L (L.U.C 9.96), designed, developed and assembled by Chopard Manufacture. Submitted to the stringent battery of tests performed under the Fleurier Quality Foundation certification process, they both bear the prestigious label of quality acknowledged as one of the most demanding in the world. 128 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 128 20.09.11 11:03 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 129 20.09.11 11:03 L .U.C COLLEC TION > CL ASSICS L.U.C Tech Qualité Fleurier In harmony with its transparency concept, the L.U.C Tech Qualité Fleurier watch features a dial generously revealing its L.U.C Calibre 96.09-L (L.U.C 9.96), chronometer certified by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC) and endowed with a 65-hour power reserve. The Côtes de Genève decoration of the mainplate makes a fine contrast with the black chapter ring featuring a circular-brushed finish bearing applied Arabic numerals. Transparency and quality are indeed the keynotes of this watch bearing the prestigious Fleurier Quality Foundation label, one of the most demanding in the watch industry. It is issued in a limited series of 250 in 18-carat white gold. Indications Hours, minutes, small seconds Certifications COSC certificate, Fleurier Quality Foundation certificate Movement L.U.C 96.09-L (L.U.C 9.96), self-winding (page 175) Diameter 27.40 mm Thickness 3.30 mm Power reserve Approx. 65 hours, L.U.C Twin technology (two stacked barrels) Oscillating weight 22-carat gold Frequency 4 Hz or 28,800 vibrations per hour Balance wheel With three spokes Balance spring Flat Jewels 29 Case Diameter 39.00 mm Thickness 9.47 mm Glass Glareproofed scratch-resistant sapphire crystal Case-back Sapphire crystal Water resistance 30 metres Strap Hand-sewn alligator leather with pin buckle in 18-carat gold 130 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 130 20.09.11 11:03 L.U.C Tech Qualité Fleurier Reference 161896-1004 Material 18-carat white gold Diameter 39.00 mm Limited edition 250 131 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 131 20.09.11 11:03 L .U.C COLLEC TION > CL ASSICS L.U.C Quattro Beneath its apparent simplicity, the L.U.C Quattro proudly proclaims its innate complexity and its performances. On the front, the understated purity of its dial, simply enhanced by applied Roman numerals, enables it to display essentials: hours, minutes, and an amazing 9-day power reserve at 12 o’clock. The small seconds and date are shown in a clever way, since the two hands are positioned on the same subdial, and yet read-off is made extremely easy by two concentric scales. On the other side, its 43 mm-diameter 18-carat gold case is fitted with a transparent sapphire crystal back serving to admire its mechanical handwound movement, L.U.C Calibre 98.01-L (L.U.C 1.98). A 216-hour power reserve is ensured by a device composed of four barrels in two stacked sets, based on technology exclusive to Chopard Manufacture. Its origins and its exceptional level of finishing earn it the rare and much-coveted Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark, while its precision is accredited by the chronometer certificate issued by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC). 132 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 132 20.09.11 11:03 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 133 20.09.11 11:03 L .U.C COLLEC TION > CL ASSICS L.U.C Quattro The new L.U.C Quattro watch is a classic yet distinctive model. Its generously sized 43 mm-diameter case is able to house L.U.C Calibre 98.01-L (L.U.C 1.98), a tour de force in that despite its extreme finesse, the latter has a 9-day power reserve thanks to L.U.C Quattro technology – two sets of two stacked barrels. In addition to the hours and minutes, the watch focuses on the most useful functions, meaning the date and the power-reserve which is essential on this hand-wound type of movement. This model is not only chronometer-certified by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC), but also bears the prestigious Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark, and is available in 18-carat white or rose gold. Indications Hours, minutes, small seconds, date, power-reserve indicator Certifications Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark, COSC certificate Movement L.U.C 98.01-L (L.U.C 1.98), hand-wound (page 180) Diameter 28.60 mm Thickness 3.70 mm Power reserve Approx. 216 hours (9 days), L.U.C Quattro technology (four barrels - two sets of two stacked barrels) Frequency 4 Hz or 28,800 vibrations per hour Balance wheel With three spokes Balance spring With Phillips terminal curve Jewels 39 Case Diameter 43.00 mm Thickness 8.87 mm Glass Glareproofed scratch-resistant sapphire crystal Case-back Sapphire crystal Water resistance 50 metres Strap Hand-sewn alligator leather with pin buckle in 18-carat gold 13 4 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 134 20.09.11 11:03 L.U.C Quattro Reference 161926-1001 Material 18-carat white gold Diameter 43.00 mm L.U.C Quattro Reference 161926-5001 Material 18-carat rose gold Diameter 43.00 mm 135 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 135 20.09.11 11:03 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 136 20.09.11 11:03 A close-up look at a few professions Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 137 20.09.11 11:03 PROFESSIONS Research & Development: Engineer – Technical Department For Chopard Manufacture, creating a new watch means first creating a new calibre, and it is the engineers of the Technical Department – the “movement design engineers” – who handle this fundamental and formative task. The process begins with ideas, with plans, with visualising a concept. It is only once this initial “roughing out” phase has progressed sufficiently that their task can begin. Using sophisticated computer-assisted design software, they begin building the movement much like micromechanical architects, incorporating the various mechanisms and complications as foreseen in the technical specifications they were given. Their approach is also guided by a constant concern for innovation that can lend genuine added value to each new calibre: enhanced profitability, less wear, greater precision, easier repairs… With the help of researchers from the Chopard Technologies division, they may also decide to make use of new materials such as silicon, or various new processes. Based on the detailed plans that they produce and pass on to the calibre-makers, the latter then create movement prototypes in order to verify their smooth operation or to recommend corrective measures that are then integrated within the work of the movement design engineers. These exchanges among experts aimed at fine-tuning a calibre may last for years. They culminate in the production of a pre-series of around 20 prototypes, some of which will be actually worn, and others submitted to the watchmaking laboratory for thorough testing. Since 1996 and the founding of Chopard Manufacture, nine movement families have been developed in this way, leading to the filing of numerous patent applications, including five for L.U.C Calibre 05.01-L (L.U.C 4TQE) alone, the recent and most complex of them all with its 516 components and 14 complications. 138 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 138 20.09.11 11:03 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 139 20.09.11 11:04 PROFESSIONS Design workshop: the designer Deliberately running counter to one of the principles of Haute Horlogerie which holds that a movement is usually created in accordance with the watch that will house it, Chopard Manufacture focuses primarily on inventing calibres for which its designers then take charge of creating the external features – case, glass, strap, hands and dial – serving to highlight their technical and aesthetic characteristics. Most models are fitted with transparent case-backs providing views of the movement’s technical structure but also and above all of the exceptional finishing details: circular graining, Côtes de Genève, diamond-polished sinks, specular polished screw heads and hand-bevelled bridges. In the case of the “Tech” models, the choice of using dials with broad openings is also intended to showcase not only the functions, but also the beauty of the movement. Generally speaking, the dials of the L.U.C collection all share a distinctive aesthetic personality based on a range of features that owe nothing to chance. Whether satinbrushed or finely guilloché-worked, most are adorned with a sunburst motif centred on the Chopard logo. The typeface of the Arabic numerals they carry is equally specific and inspired by the men’s watches typical of the 1940s and 1950s. When it comes to the Roman numerals, their distinctive yet elegant style reflects that of the ultra-thin watches created by Chopard in the 1950s. The long and slender Dauphine appliques are teamed with Dauphine hands, all specially designed for the L.U.C collection. The refinement of the case also stems from the sophisticated shapes that appear to evolve according to the angle from which they are admired, and feature finishes combining vertical satin-brushing of the case-middle sides, sunburst satin-brushed finishing on the top and mirror polishing of the sides of the bezel and the back, as well as polishing on the upper and lower surfaces of the lugs… A wealth of details designed to ensure a perfect appearance. 140 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 140 20.09.11 11:04 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 141 20.09.11 11:04 PROFESSIONS Casting workshop: gold caster Within the world of watch and jewellery manufacturers, in-house gold casting is truly exceptional. Why should a company make its own alloys? Naturally so as to control the quality, but also in order to respond to the inherently irregular nature of its own workshops’ requirements. Starting with fine gold ingots, Chopard Manufacture has chosen to produce five categories of 18-carat gold: a white gold shade, two shades of yellow gold and two shades of rose gold. These alloys are obtained by casting mixtures composed of 750/1000 fine gold (the prerequisite for earning the legal “18-carat gold” title) with other metals that give them not only the desired colour but also the degree of hardness that is indispensable to the jeweller’s work. Fine gold is indeed too malleable to be worked as required. Among the metals used in the alloys cast by Chopard Manufacture are silver and copper, which serve to produce rose gold, and palladium for producing white gold. The gold caster then proceeds in much the same way as a master chef in his kitchen: gold is made according to an extremely precise recipe, using carefully controlled gestures. Nothing is left to chance, for while the choice and correct dosage of the ingredients is essential, the procedure itself is equally crucial. The slightest mistake of handling, of temperature or of firing time could render the gold porous and thus totally unfit for use. Once the various materials needed for the alloy are combined within the crucible, the latter is fired at an extremely high temperature in a magnetic induction oven. Each alloy calls for its own specific temperature, and rose gold for example must be fired at 1000°C. Once the metals are molten and mixed, the gold is poured into an ingot. The latter is rolled and fired again several more times in order to achieve the correct degree of the final alloy, and it is not until the Swiss Precious Metals Control has conducted its analysis and placed its official punchmark guaranteeing a 75% ratio of fine gold that it is ready for use. 14 2 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 142 20.09.11 11:04 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 143 20.09.11 11:04 PROFESSIONS Micromechanical workshops: machine operator When it comes to production, everything begins at the hands of the machine operator working in the micromechanical workshop, which is the first to receive the raw materials from which the movements are to be made. The movement ébauche, for example, composed of the mainplate and bridges, is machined from brass discs. To achieve this, the operator uses computer numerically controlled machines which, with the help of various tools, successively mill, tap and bevel these small metal discs to a 2-micron level of precision. Only in certain specific cases where it is deemed more reliable is manual work regarded as preferable. Such is for example the case of trimming, which is done “by hand and by sight”. It is indeed virtually impossible for machines, however precise and sophisticated, not to leave traces or tiny quantities of material on each part, and the task of timing must thus be done by hand in so-called “correcting” operations. The steel parts, generally called by their French name fournitures, are cut out from steel bars by wire electrical discharge machining. This process involves an electrically charged metal wire that cuts the metal by producing a spark. The parts are electronically controlled because precision is all important here, with less than micron-level tolerances. By mastering a variety of multiple production technologies, Chopard Manufacture can avoid the risks inherent in subcontracting and thus ensure reliable supply flows, guaranteed lead times, and of course superior quality. That is exactly why, ever since its founding in 1996, it has opted for in-house production of virtually all its movement components. 14 4 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 144 20.09.11 11:04 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 145 20.09.11 11:04 PROFESSIONS Decoration workshops: beveller (chamferer) Although not immediately apparent in its name, the purpose of this profession is to decorate all specially shaped movement parts (bridges, levers, jumper-springs, etc.) – the components that hold together the mobile parts of a movement and are thus its most visible parts. So why does the French term for this decorative process include the idea of “angles”? The bridges in question all feature sharp 90° angles when they emerge from machining. In order to create the contrasts that will accentuate their outlines, the bevellers “chamfer” these edges, meaning filing them down to polished 45° angles. They also polish the sinks – sometimes referred to as “mouldings” – meaning the concave chamfers around the screw heads. This is done using tiny cutters or diamond-tipped grinding-wheels rotating at 40,000 rpm. In the case of hand bevelling, they also opt to use an extremely thin metal file coated with abrasive paper. This manual technique, which is naturally more difficult to implement, will enable her to create so-called “interior” angles at the intersection of two chamfers. An experienced eye can indeed appraise the quality of the work of a beveller in a given watch decoration by the number and the nature of these interior angles. As far as the upper surface of the bridges are concerned, the beveller deals only with the thinnest ones, such as the tourbillon bridge. The other larger surfaces are decorated with adornments such as circular graining, satin brushing and Côtes de Genève, all performed by an artisan other than the beveller. The upper face of the tourbillon bridge is generally given a “specular” or “mirror” finish, meaning a polish so perfect that the complete absence of any flaws or bumps enable it to absorb the light. In all, the complete decoration of a tourbillon bridge – bevelling the edges and the sinks, drawing out the flanks, specular polishing the surface – may take an experienced beveller over four hours. That’s what it takes to ensure true horological beauty. 146 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 146 20.09.11 11:04 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 147 20.09.11 11:04 PROFESSIONS Decoration workshops: electroplater Electroplating consists in using electrolytic processes to apply layers of metal to parts that are themselves in metal in order to protect and embellish them. An electroplating workshop is therefore first and foremost a set of liquid vats serving as baths for coating, washing and rinsing. The parts arrive there from the decoration workshops where they have been treated to a wide range of finishes including bevelling, circular graining, hand drawing, Côtes de Genève and engraving. Most have been the object of many hours of hand craftsmanship, and their cost price is so high that their handling and treatment call for extreme care. The parts are mostly in brass, a metal that tends to oxidise over time or simply by being touched. They will thus need to be protected by a stainless metal such as gold or rhodium. They are first immersed in solutions designed to eliminate any traces of grease, and then an electrolytic bath conducted at a voltage of 7 to 10 volts. The amperage and the duration of the bath are both determined by the total surface area to be treated. After several rinses, the parts are soaked in an electrolytic “activation” bath, an extremely acid solution intended to neutralise any trace of soap and to “activate” their surface, meaning to render it more fit to receive and retain a layer of metal. The first layer of nickel applied is designed to serve as an additional barrier against corrosion and also to facilitate the adherence of the finishing layer. Then come the colouring baths that will give them their final colour, after which four gold colours – 5N, 4N, 3N, 2N – and two rhodium colours – white and black – are available. Once this stage is complete, a last degreasing and a final “activation” operation are performed. After being rinsed in pure water and dried, the parts have acquired their definitive appearance and are ready to be sent to the workshop of the watchmaker who will assemble them. 148 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 148 20.09.11 11:04 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 149 20.09.11 11:04 PROFESSIONS Assembly workshops: precision timer This profession is still exercised in a handful of authentic Manufactures that have chosen to continue performing in-house one of the most original and specific of all watchmaking operations: shaping the terminal curve of the balance spring. This tiny flat spring forming a spiral – hence its French name, spiral – determines the frequency of the balance, and thus the precision of the watch itself. The precision timer first adjusts the balance spring to size by cutting a few coils from the centre in order to adapt the dimension of this central empty space to that of the collet. The collet resembles a small cylinder with a side slot into which the artisan slides the inner end of the balance spring and then blocks it with a pin, an operation called virolage or “pinning up to the collet”. After assembly of the collet and balance wheel comes the most delicate operation of all: shaping the terminal curve. The goal is to enable the balance spring to develop concentrically in the course of its expansions and contractions, thereby avoiding an imbalance that could lead to gain or loss in time. To achieve this, the precision timer shapes the terminal coil, first in an upward direction, while creating a slight slope. At the top of the slope, two new twists are made in order to place it perfectly parallel with the other coils, as well as to reduce its radius of curvature. The following stage involves fitting the stud on the outer end of the terminal curve. This microscopic part, the role of which is to join the balance-bridge and its spring, is secured to the latter by means of a pin the size of an eyelash! This is also the means used by the régleuse – who certainly deserves her French name which also literally means “adjuster” – in making a preliminary adjustment of the frequency of the assembled regulating organ, by shifting the stud along the outer end of the balance spring. It will then be up to the watchmaker, using the index-assembly, to make the final adjustment or rating that will give the watch its required level of precision. 150 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 150 20.09.11 11:04 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 151 20.09.11 11:04 PROFESSIONS Assembly workshops: complications watchmaker The profession of complications watchmaker consists in assembling and adjusting the most complex models produced by the Manufacture, such as those equipped with a tourbillon, a perpetual calendar, or a striking mechanism. Their task is very much like putting together a three-dimensional jigsaw puzzle that may comprise over 350 parts, and which comes with a set of technical documents detailing the specific features of the calibre and signalling the pitfalls to be avoided. Starting from there, they assemble the movement themselves from A to Z, from driving in the studs to jewelling – meaning fitting the jewels in the mainplate and bridges – right the way through to final assembly, casing up and even testing the water-resistance of the watch “head”. In assembling the movement, the main difficulty they admit to encountering may prove surprising: whereas one might think the challenge would lie in the size of the parts being handled – some are truly microscopic and could easily be blown away in a single breath – their main concern is in fact to avoid damaging them, such as by an accidental knock with a screwdriver. This would be particularly unfortunate in that most of these parts have by then been treated to meticulous and costly operations such as polishing, circular graining, bevelling and electroplating. For the most sophisticated calibres, this meticulous work may therefore take up to three weeks and assembling a single tourbillon carriage takes two and a half days in itself. Once the components are assembled, the watchmakers must then adjust the movement in order to ensure its accuracy before being submitted to the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute. These phases, known as “achevage” and “setting into motion”, consist in adjusting and where required modifying the tiny parts forming the regulating organ: the lever, the balance spring and the balance wheel. These “microsurgical” operations are performed by hand and under a microscope, because of the micron-level tolerances involved. In this respect, the daily work of these self-styled “professional hair-splitters” literally borders on perfection. 152 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 152 20.09.11 11:04 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 153 20.09.11 11:04 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 154 20.09.11 11:04 L.U.C calibres Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 155 20.09.11 11:04 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 156 20.09.11 11:04 L.U.C calibres The founding of Chopard Manufacture in 1996 stemmed from Karl-Friedrich Scheufele’s determination to enable Chopard to gain full legitimacy in the field of Haute Horlogerie. He also wanted to strike the right balance for the brand’s watch collection by offering clients timepieces with rich content; by highlighting its watchmaking expertise within a dedicated and technically well equipped entity; and finally, in accordance with its corporate philosophy, by enhancing its level of independence and integration. Today, Chopard Manufacture fully deserves its name, since it brings together under one roof dozens of professions enabling it to design, develop and produce its timepieces from A to Z. But it is doubtless in the domain of the calibres created to date that its achievements are most eloquent. Since 1996, no less than nine movement families encompassing over 50 variations have been developed, representing a magnificent accomplishment for such a recently established watch manufacture. And the remarkable nature of these impressive technical resources is also due to their sheer diversity, since they now encompass almost the entire range of complications. The current movement collection thus includes the most classic models, such as the dual time zone or the chronograph, as well the ultra-thin calibre – a complication in its own right given the difficulty of creating and operating it. Others are far more complex, such as the perpetual calendar, the tourbillon, or the hourly strike of L.U.C Calibre 96.14-L (L.U.C 96SH). This range of calibres also comprises a number of major innovations representing landmark achievements, such as the L.U.C Twin technology with its double barrel ensuring a 65-hour power reserve; the orbital moon phase with its totally innovative display; and the Variner® balance wheel with inertia-blocks incorporated into the rim. It is also grounded on a philosophy that places concern for aesthetics and for fine craftsmanship at the very heart of its approach to creating movements. 157 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 157 20.09.11 11:04 L .U.C C ALIBRES &HUWLÀFDWLRQV Quality is a core concern for Chopard Manufacture. This quality is expressed through the precision, the reliability, the durability and the fine craftsmanship of its timepieces. It is based on an approach that permeates the entire process of design, development and production. Orchestrated by Chopard Manufacture’s in-house Watchmaking Laboratory, these stages are defined by the ISO 9001 norm implemented by Chopard Manufacture in 1998. Nonetheless, when it comes to quality control, nothing can surpass the objectivity of an external body, which is why the manufacture works with several such organisations which are benchmarks in this domain. COSC certification The Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC) certifies the precision of the movements. This non-profit official body is state recognised and its official watch rating offices are three laboratories located in Biel, Le Locle and Geneva – each of which has earned accreditation as a “Swiss Calibration Service” laboratory granted by the Swiss Accreditation Service. In accordance with the ISO 3159 norm, it conducts an exhaustive examination of all calibres that are submitted to it via a battery of tests lasting 16 days. During these 384 hours, the precision of mechanical movements is measured in five positions and at three different temperatures. Whatever these conditions, the movements must maintain a precision ranging between -4 and +6 seconds per day for calibres measuring less than 20 mm in diameter, and between -5 and +8 seconds for smaller calibres. Movements meeting the precision criteria are granted a chronometer certificate – a privilege reserved for only 3% of total watch production in Switzerland. Fleurier Quality Foundation (FQF) The Fleurier Quality Foundation is another independent body to which Chopard Manufacture resorts in order to test the quality of its timepieces. The procedure is even more comprehensive in that, in addition to submitting the movements to the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC) in order to guarantee precision, the watches are tested as a whole in order to appraise their overall quality. The Chronofiable test verifies the durability of its movement by subjecting it to an ageing cycle, a cycle measuring pull-push forces on the winding stem, as well as tests of resistance to magnetic fields; and finally a shock-resistance test using a dedicated striker. The watch must also comply with the numerous specific technical and aesthetic criteria contained in the technical regulations of the Fleurier Quality Foundation (involving the choice of materials, of 158 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 158 20.09.11 11:04 decorative techniques, and of finishes). Finally, the rate of the finished watch must be tested on the Fleuritest machine, which replicates the conditions implied by 24 hours of wear in the most realistic possible way, and checks that the variation in rate falls within 0 and +5 seconds per day. It is only when the watch has successfully passed all these phases that it is deemed worthy to receive to the Fleurier Quality Foundation label. Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark The third and last external label of quality to which Chopard Manufacture submits some of its models is the prestigious Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark. This label, created in 1886 in order to protect Genevan watchmaking, involves three fundamental conditions of admission and 12 qualifying criteria. A watch is thus only eligible if its movement is assembled and adjusted in Canton Geneva, if it is numbered, and if it meets the craftsmanship criteria established by the Technical Committee. These 12 criteria involve the finishing of the parts (chamfered and hand-drawn bridges, polished sinks, chamfered going train) and their characteristics (type of balance wheel-spring pinning, type of index, thickness of the escape wheel), as well as the non-use of certain parts such as wire springs. The Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark is an all-in-one guarantee of origin, of craftsmanship and of durability. By calling upon the objectivity of independent certification bodies, Choaprd Manufacture ensures the quality of its timepieces while showing respect for the trust placed in it by its clients. But that is not its only objective, since this approach also serves as a constant source of stimulation in its ongoing quest for excellence. 159 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 159 20.09.11 11:04 L .U.C C ALIBRES The nine L.U.C base calibres and a few variations created by Chopard Manufacture since 1996 L.U.C 96.01-L (L.U.C 1.96) L.U.C 96.03-L (L.U.C 3.96) L.U.C 96.04-L (L.U.C 4.96) L.U.C 96.04-L3 (L.U.C 4.96 “2000”) L.U.C 96.04-L1 (L.U.C 4.96 “Sport”) L.U.C 96.04-L2 (L.U.C 4.96 “ProOne”) L.U.C 96.06-L (L.U.C 4.96-H1 “GMT”) L.U.C 96.13-L (L.U.C 96QP) L.U.C 96.12-L (L.U.C 12.96) L.U.C 96.09-L (L.U.C 9.96) L.U.C 96.16-L (L.U.C 96M) L.U.C 96.14-L (L.U.C 96SH) L.U.C 96.15-L (L.U.C 96H24) L.U.C 96.17-L (L.U.C 96HM) L.U.C 96.11-L (L.U.C 11.96) L.U.C 96.14-L1 (L.U.C 96SHT) L.U.C 96.18-L (L.U.C 96T) L.U.C 96.19-L (L.U.C 96TB) L.U.C 97.01-L (L.U.C 1.97) L.U.C 97.03-L (L.U.C 3.97) 160 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 160 20.09.11 11:04 L.U.C 98.01-L (L.U.C 1.98) L.U.C 98.02-L (L.U.C 1.98-37089) L.U.C 98.05-L (L.U.C 4R) L.U.C 98.03-L (L.U.C 4RT) L.U.C 02.01-L (L.U.C 1.02) L.U.C 02.05-L (L.U.C 4T) L.U.C 02.03-L (L.U.C 4TT) L.U.C 02.10-L (L.U.C 4TT3N) L.U.C 02.10-L1 (L.U.C 4TT3NGM) L.U.C 02.08-L (L.U.C 4TSL) L.U.C 02.11-L (L.U.C 4TBST) L.U.C 02.12-L (L.U.C 4TBSTSi) L.U.C 02.13-L (L.U.C 1.02QF) L.U.C 03.03-L (L.U.C 11CF) L.U.C 04.01-L (L.U.C 1TRM) L.U.C 05.01-L (L.U.C 4TQE) L.U.C 01.01-L (L.U.C 1.010) L.U.C 06.01-L (L.U.C EHG) Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 161 161 20.09.11 11:04 L .U.C C ALIBRES L.U.C Calibre 05.01-L (L.U.C 4TQE) L.U.C Calibre 05.01-L (L.U.C 4TQE), created for Chopard’s 150th anniversary, is a compendium of watchmaking skills and a concentrated blend of the expertise patiently acquired by Chopard Manufacture since its founding in 1996. This micromechanical masterpiece, composed of 516 parts and featuring manual winding, incorporates two sets of two stacked barrels – the exclusive L.U.C Quattro technology – ensuring an over one-week power reserve. It comprises a set of exceptional astronomical complications spread over both sides. Its tourbillon carriage equipped with a balance spring featuring a Phillips terminal curve, and an exclusive Variner® balance wheel guarantee a degree of precision attested to by a chronometer rating certificate issued by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC). The extreme care devoted to its conception and finishing, as well as its place of adjustment and assembly, entitle it to carry the prestigious Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark. Functions Tourbillon, perpetual calendar, equation of time, moon phases Indications [Dial side] Hours, minutes, 1-minute tourbillon at 6 o’clock carrying the small seconds hand, perpetual calendar with date display at 12 o’clock, day and 24-hour indicator at 9 o’clock, months and leap-year cycle at 3 o’clock [Case-back side] Power-reserve indicator at 12 o’clock, equation of time at 10 o’clock, sunset time at 8 o’clock*, sunrise time at 4 o’clock*, day/night indicator at 2 o’clock, orbital moon phase at 6 o’clock Certifications COSC certificate, Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark Type of winding Hand-wound Diameter 33.00 mm (14’’’ V ) Thickness 11.75 mm Power reserve Approx. 170 hours (meaning 7 days), L.U.C Quattro technology four barrels (two sets of two stacked barrels) Frequency 4Hz, 28,800 vph (vibrations per hour) Balance wheel Variner® Balance spring With Phillips terminal curve Decorations Bridges adorned with Côtes de Genève, circular-grained mainplate Jewels 42 Number of parts 516 Models L.U.C 150 “All-in-One” (page 48) *sunrise and sunset times in Geneva. 162 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 162 20.09.11 11:04 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 163 20.09.11 11:05 L .U.C C ALIBRES L.U.C Calibre 04.01-L (L.U.C 1TRM) Entirely designed, developed and produced by Chopard Manufacture, this mechanical hand-wound calibre also bears the imprint of the passion for motor sports nurtured by Karl-Friedrich Scheufele. Inspired by the mechanical beauty of cars, its design echoes that of an engine block. To protect it from vibrations, it is mounted on silent blocks. Its tourbillon, equipped with an aluminium carriage and a balance spring with Phillips terminal curve, ensures extreme precision guaranteed by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC). In addition to the hours and minutes, it displays the small seconds directly on the tourbillon carriage and has a power-reserve indicator at 12 o’clock. Functions Tourbillon Indications Hours, minutes, small seconds on the tourbillon carriage, power-reserve indicator at 12 o’clock. Certifications COSC certificate Type of winding Hand-wound Dimensions 34.00 x 25.90 mm (15’’’ x 11’’’ V ) Thickness 5.60 mm Power reserve Approx. 60 hours Frequency 4Hz, 28,800 vph (vibrations per hour) Balance wheel Variner® Balance spring With Phillips terminal curve Decorations Nickel silver bridges and mainplate, grained motif on the bridges Jewels 29 Number of parts 209 Models L.U.C Engine One Tourbillon (page 66) 164 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 164 20.09.11 11:05 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 165 20.09.11 11:05 L .U.C C ALIBRES L.U.C Calibre 06.01-L (L.U.C EHG) This calibre created to equip a pocket-watch was jointly developed by Chopard Manufacture and the Geneva Watchmaking School. It enables the apprentices of this prestigious institution to make their “school piece”, a landmark in any watchmaker’s career, while also providing Chopard Manufacture with a chance to affirm its support for the training of young watchmakers for the next 30 years. Featuring a 60-hour power reserve but only hour, minute and seconds functions, it conceals its complexity and its refinement within its mechanism: chamfered nickel silver bridges, Côtes de Genève decoration, finely gilded inscriptions and a swan’s-neck index assembly are the kind of details that entitle it to bear the prestigious Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark. Meanwhile, its precision is guaranteed by the chronometer certificate issued by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC). Indications Hours, minutes, small seconds Certifications COSC certificate, Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark Type of winding Hand-wound Diameter 43.20 mm (19’’’) Thickness 5.50 mm Power reserve 80 hours Frequency 3Hz, 21,600 vph (vibrations per hour) Balance wheel With two spokes, with screws Balance spring Flat Decorations Nickel silver bridges adorned with Côtes de Genève, circular-grained mainplate Jewels 20 Number of parts 148 Models L.U.C Louis-Ulysse – The Tribute (page 54) 166 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 166 20.09.11 11:05 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 167 20.09.11 11:05 L .U.C C ALIBRES L.U.C Calibre 03.03-L (L.U.C 11CF) Any Haute Horlogerie manufacture needs to have an excellent chronograph movement in its technical portfolio. Mission accomplished for Chopard Manufacture since 2006, the date of its 10th anniversary. The exceptional chronograph movement, L.U.C Calibre 03.03-L, is fully integrated and features a column-wheel system and a vertical coupling clutch equipped with a friction organ in a viscoelastic material. Three other patented devices further enhance its reliability and its user friendliness. The first is a zero-reset mechanism via three supple hammers ensuring an optimal return of the three hands and absorption of the resulting shock. Secondly, the watch can be set to time with great accuracy because L.U.C Calibre 03.03-L (L.U.C 11CF) has a small seconds reset system coupled with a stop seconds device. And finally the automatic winding system is self-locking in order ensure optimal winding in either direction of the oscillating weight thanks to its gear system. Its excellent performances along with the precision ensured by its Variner® balance wheel enable L.U.C Calibre 03.03-L to earn chronometer certification from the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC). Functions Flyback chronograph Indications Hours, minutes, small seconds, date, chronographs seconds hand, hour counter, minute counter Certifications COSC certificate Type of winding Bidirectional self-winding Diameter 28.80 mm (12’’’ X ) Thickness 7.60 mm Power reserve Approx. 60 hours Oscillating weight 22-carat gold Frequency 4Hz, 28,800 vph (vibrations per hour) Balance wheel Variner® Balance spring Flat Decorations Bridges adorned with Côtes de Genève, circular-grained mainplate Jewels 45 Number of parts 359 Models L.U.C Chrono One (page 104) 168 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 168 20.09.11 11:05 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 169 20.09.11 11:05 L .U.C C ALIBRES L.U.C Calibre 01.01-L (L.U.C 1.010) L.U.C Calibre 01.01-L (L.U.C 1.010) laid a significant milestone in the history of L.U.C movements. This mechanical self-winding movement created for Chopard’s 150th anniversary represents an investment in the future of its watch collection. Endowed with a 60-hour power reserve, it has a stop seconds device to facilitate time-setting and its precision is guaranteed by a chronometer rating certificate issued by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC). But it is in fact its technological level that makes it such an exceptional calibre and endows it with countless qualities including extremely easy assembly and maintenance, remarkable reliability, as well as great robustness. Indications Hours, minutes, seconds, date Certifications COSC Type of winding Bidirectional self-winding Diameter 28.80 mm (12’’’ X ) Thickness 4.95 mm Power reserve Approx. 60 hours Oscillating weight Heavy metal Frequency 4Hz, 28,800 vph (vibrations per hour) Balance wheel With four spokes, micro-regulator with screws Balance spring Flat Decorations Bridges adorned with Côtes de Genève, circular-grained mainplate Jewels 31 Number of parts 207 Models L.U.C 1937 (page 58) and L.U.C 1937 Classic (page 60) 170 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 170 20.09.11 11:05 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 171 20.09.11 11:05 L .U.C C ALIBRES L.U.C Calibre 96.01-L (L.U.C 1.96) L.U.C Calibre 96.01-L was the first movement created by Chopard Manufacture after its founding. In this respect, it symbolises the company’s return to the extremely select circle of authentic Haute Horlogerie manufactures. The creation and launch of this ultra-thin movement – measuring just 3.30 mm thick – and housed in the L.U.C 1860 watch were honoured in 1997 by the awarding of the “Watch of the Year” title by the Swiss magazine Montres Passion/Uhrenwelt. The L.U.C Twin technology of this bidirectional self-winding movement ensures a 65-hour power reserve. Its micro-rotor type oscillating weight is in 22-carat gold, its balance spring has a Phillips terminal curve, and the exceptional care devoted to its finishing and decoration earn it the right to carry the prestigious Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark. This micromechanical masterpiece serves as the base mechanism for ten or so different movements. Indications Hours, minutes, small seconds, date Certifications COSC certificate, Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark Type of winding Bidirectional self-winding Diameter 27.40 mm (12’’’) Thickness 3.30 mm Power reserve Approx. 65 hours, L.U.C Twin technology (two stacked barrels) Oscillating weight 22-carat gold Frequency 4Hz, 28,800 vph (vibrations per hour) Balance wheel With three spokes Balance spring With Phillips terminal curve Decorations Bridges adorned with Côtes de Genève, circular-grained mainplate Jewels 29 Number of parts 208 Base calibre of L.U.C 96.09-L, L.U.C 96.12-L, L.U.C 96.13-L, L.U.C 96.14-L, L.U.C 96.17-L, L.U.C 96.18-L 172 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 172 20.09.11 11:05 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 173 20.09.11 11:05 L .U.C C ALIBRES L.U.C Calibre 96.13-L (L.U.C 96QP) Functions Perpetual calendar, moon phases Indications Hours, minutes, small seconds, date, days, months, four-year leap-year cycle, 24-hour indicator, moon phases Certifications COSC certificate, Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark Type of winding Bidirectional self-winding Diameter 33.00 mm (14’’’ V ) Thickness 6.00 mm Power reserve Approx. 65 hours, L.U.C Twin technology (two stacked barrels) Oscillating weight 22-carat gold Frequency 4Hz, 28,800 vph (vibrations per hour) Balance wheel With three spokes Balance spring With Phillips terminal curve Decorations Bridges adorned with Côtes de Genève, circular-grained mainplate Jewels 32 Number of parts 355 Models L.U.C Lunar One (page 90), L.U.C XP Urushi (page 114) 174 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 174 20.09.11 11:05 L.U.C Calibre 96.14-L L.U.C Calibre 96.09-L (L.U.C 96SH) (L.U.C 9.96) Functions Hourly strike Indications Hours, minutes, small seconds, date Certifications COSC certificate Indications Hours, minutes, small seconds Certifications COSC certificate, Fleurier Quality Foundation certificate Type of winding Bidirectional self-winding Diameter 33.00 mm (14’’’ V ) Thickness 5.75 mm Power reserve Approx. 65 hours, L.U.C Twin technology (two stacked barrels) Oscillating weight 22-carat gold Frequency 4Hz, 28,800 vph (vibrations per hour) Balance wheel With three spokes Balance spring With Phillips terminal curve Decorations Bridges adorned with Côtes de Genève, circular-grained mainplate Jewels 33 Type of winding Bidirectional self-winding Diameter 27.40 mm (12’’’) Thickness 3.30 mm Power reserve Approx. 65 hours, L.U.C Twin technology (two stacked barrels) Oscillating weight 22-carat gold Frequency 4Hz, 28,800 vph (vibrations per hour) Balance wheel With three spokes Balance spring Flat Decorations Bridges adorned with Côtes de Genève, circular-grained mainplate Jewels 29 Number of parts 300 Models L.U.C Strike One (page 96) Number of parts 172 Models L.U.C Tech Qualité Fleurier (page 130) 175 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 175 20.09.11 11:05 L .U.C C ALIBRES L.U.C Calibre 96.17-L (L.U.C 96HM) Indications Hours, minutes Type of winding Bidirectional self-winding Diameter 27.40 mm (12’’’) Thickness 3.30 mm Power reserve Approx. 65 hours, L.U.C Twin technology (two stacked barrels) Oscillating weight 22-carat gold Frequency 4Hz, 28,800 vph (vibrations per hour) Balance wheel With three spokes Balance spring Flat Decorations Bridges adorned with Côtes de Genève, circular-grained mainplate Jewels 29 Number of parts 172 Models L.U.C XP (page 108) 176 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 176 20.09.11 11:05 L.U.C Calibre 96.12-L L.U.C Calibre 96.18-L (L.U.C 12.96) (L.U.C 96T) Indications Hours, minutes, small seconds Certifications COSC certificate Indications Hours, minutes, small seconds, date Certifications COSC certificate Type of winding Bidirectional self-winding Diameter 27.40 mm (12’’’) Thickness 3.30 mm Power reserve Approx. 65 hours, L.U.C Twin technology (two stacked barrels) Oscillating weight 22-carat gold Frequency 4Hz, 28,800 Vph (vibrations per hour) Balance wheel With three spokes Balance spring Flat Decorations Bridges adorned with Côtes de Genève, circular-grained mainplate Jewels 29 Type of winding Bidirectional self-winding Diameter 27.40 mm (12’’’) Thickness 3.30 mm Power reserve Approx. 65 hours, L.U.C Twin technology (two stacked barrels) Oscillating weight 22-carat gold Frequency 4Hz, 28,800 vph (vibrations per hour) Balance wheel With three spokes Balance spring Flat Decorations Bridges adorned with Côtes de Genève, circular-grained mainplate Jewels 28 Number of parts 172 Models L.U.C XPS (page 118) Number of parts 193 Models L.U.C Tech Twist (page 126) 17 7 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 177 20.09.11 11:05 L .U.C C ALIBRES L.U.C Calibre 97.03-L (L.U.C 3.97) L.U.C Calibre 97.03-L (L.U.C 3.97) is a tonneau or barrel-shaped calibre. Shaped movements represent a difficult exercise in that designing them involves entirely revising the arrangement of the parts in order to match an unusual mainplate. But since one of the fundamental principles of Haute Horlogerie is to adapt the shape of the movement to the shape of the case, only the most prestigious manufactures have shaped movements in their range of technical resources, and Chopard Manufacture is no exception to this rule. L.U.C Calibre 97.03-L is an ultra-thin tonneau-shaped calibre measuring just 3.30 mm thick. Its bidirectional self-winding movement is equipped with a 22-carat gold micro-rotor, enabling it to be incorporated into the thickness of a movement that thereby remains as slim as ever. Thanks to its L.U.C Twin technology, it has a 65-hour power reserve, and its precision is accredited by a chronometer rating certificate issued by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC). Indications Hours, minutes, small seconds, date Certifications COSC certificate Movement Bidirectional self-winding Dimensions 28.15 x 27.60 mm (12’’’ V x 12’’’) Thickness 3.30 mm Power reserve Approx. 65 hours, L.U.C Twin technology (two stacked barrels) Oscillating weight 22-carat gold Frequency 4Hz, 28,800 vph (vibrations per hour) Balance wheel With three spokes Balance spring Flat Decorations Bridges adorned with Côtes de Genève, circular-grained mainplate Jewels 29 Number of parts 197 Models L.U.C XP Tonneau (page 122) 178 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 178 20.09.11 11:05 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 179 20.09.11 11:05 L .U.C C ALIBRES L.U.C Calibre 98.01-L (L.U.C 1.98) L.U.C Calibre 98.01-L is the world’s first hand-wound movement comprising four barrels composed of two sets of coupled or stacked barrels, each containing a spring measuring 47 cm long. The total sum of their lengths amounts to 1.88 metres, thus enabling them to store sufficient energy to power this calibre for 216 hours, equivalent to around 9 days. This exceptional autonomy is displayed on the dial by a power-reserve indicator at 12 o’clock. Another distinctive feature of this calibre lies in its concentric display of the date and small seconds in a subdial at 6 o’clock. The entirely hand-crafted finishing of this movement meets the demanding craftsmanship standards of the Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark. Indications Hours, minutes, small seconds, date, power-reserve indicator Certifications COSC certificate, Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark Type of winding Hand-wound Diameter 28.60 mm (12’’’ V ) Thickness 3.70 mm Power reserve Approx. 216 hours (meaning 9 days), L.U.C Quattro technology, four barrels (two sets of two stacked barrels) Frequency 4Hz, 28,800 vph (vibrations per hour) Balance wheel With three spokes, with “swan’s neck” micrometrical regulation Balance spring With Phillips terminal curve Decorations Bridges adorned with Côtes de Genève, circular-grained mainplate Jewels 39 Number of parts 223 Models L.U.C Quattro (page 134) 180 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 180 20.09.11 11:05 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 181 20.09.11 11:05 L .U.C C ALIBRES L.U.C Calibre 02.01-L (L.U.C 1.02) It was in 2003 that Chopard Manufacture made its grand entrance onto the scene of the most prestigious complications by introducing its first calibre equipped with a tourbillon. In addition to this remarkable token of precision – attested to by a chronometer rating certificate issued by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC) L.U.C Calibre 02.01-L has an exceptional 9-day power reserve thanks to its L.U.C Quattro technology based on two sets of two stacked barrels. Its 224 parts, including 62 for the tourbillon alone, are accommodated within a mere 4 cm3 area. Their exceptional level of finishing and their particularly meticulous decoration have earned L.U.C Calibre 02.01-L the prestigious Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark. This outstanding movement has given rise to a number of L.U.C tourbillon variations. Function Tourbillon Indications Hours, minutes, small seconds, power-reserve indicator Certifications COSC certificate,Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark Type of winding Hand-wound Diameter 29.70 mm (13’’’) Thickness 6.10 mm Power reserve Approx. 216 hours (meaning 9 days), L.U.C Quattro technology, four barrels (two sets of two stacked barrels) Frequency 4Hz, 28,800 vph (vibrations per hour) Balance wheel Variner® Balance spring With Phillips terminal curve Decorations Bridges adorned with Côtes de Genève, circular-grained mainplate Jewels 33 Number of parts 224 Base calibre of L.U.C 02.03-L, L.U.C 02.08-L, L.U.C 02.10-L1, L.U.C 02.11-L, L.U.C 02.12-L, L.U.C 02.13-L 182 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 182 20.09.11 11:05 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 183 20.09.11 11:05 L .U.C C ALIBRES L.U.C Calibre 02.11-L L.U.C Calibre 02.12-L (L.U.C 4TBST) (L.U.C 4TBSTSi) Functions Tourbillon Indications Hours, minutes, small seconds, power-reserve indicator Certifications COSC certificate Functions Tourbillon Indications Hours, minutes, small seconds, power-reserve indicator Certifications COSC certificate Type of winding Hand-wound Diameter 29.70 mm (13’’’) Thickness 6.10 mm Power reserve Approx. 216 hours (meaning 9 days), L.U.C Quattro technology, four barrels (two sets of two stacked barrels) Frequency 4Hz, 28,800 vph (vibrations per hour) Balance wheel Variner® Balance spring With Phillips terminal curve Decorations Bridges adorned with Côtes de Genève, circular-grained mainplate Jewels 33 Type of winding Hand-wound Diameter 29.70 mm (13’’’) Thickness 6.10 mm Power reserve Approx. 216 hours (meaning 9 days), L.U.C Quattro technology, four barrels (two sets of two stacked barrels) Frequency 4Hz, 28,800 vph (vibrations per hour) Balance wheel Variner® Balance spring With Phillips terminal curve Escapement Silicon Decorations Bridges adorned with Côtes de Genève, circular-grained mainplate Jewels 31 Number of parts 217 Models L.U.C Tourbillon Tech Twist (page 76) Number of parts 229 Models L.U.C Tourbillon Tech Twist (page 74) 184 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 184 20.09.11 11:05 L.U.C Calibre 02.03-L L.U.C Calibre 02.10-L1 (L.U.C 4TT) (L.U.C 4TT3NGM) Functions Tourbillon Indications Hours, minutes, small seconds, power-reserve indicator Certifications COSC certificate Functions Tourbillon Indications Hours, minutes, small seconds, power-reserve indicator Certifications COSC certificate Type of winding Hand-wound Diameter 29.70 mm (13’’’) Thickness 6.10 mm Power reserve Approx. 216 hours (meaning 9 days), L.U.C Quattro technology, four barrels (two sets of two stacked barrels) Frequency 4Hz, 28,800 vph (vibrations per hour) Balance wheel Variner® Balance spring With Phillips terminal curve Decorations Bridges adorned with Côtes de Genève, circular-grained mainplate Jewels 33 Type of winding Hand-wound Diameter 29.70 mm (13’’’) Thickness 6.10 mm Power reserve Approx. 216 hours (meaning 9 days), L.U.C Quattro technology, four barrels (two sets of two stacked barrels) Frequency 4Hz, 28,800 vph (vibrations per hour) Balance wheel Variner® Balance spring With Phillips terminal curve Decorations Traditional fleurisan motifs Jewels 33 Number of parts 229 Models L.U.C Tourbillon Tech Steel Wings (page 80) Number of parts 231 Models L.U.C Tourbillon Esprit de Fleurier (page 84) 185 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 185 20.09.11 11:06 L .U.C C ALIBRES L.U.C Calibre 02.08-L L.U.C Calibre 02.13-L (L.U.C 4TSL) (L.U.C 1.02QF) Functions Tourbillon Indications Hours, minutes, small seconds, power-reserve indicator Certifications COSC certificate Functions Tourbillon Indications Hours, minutes, small seconds, power-reserve indicator Certifications COSC certificate, Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark, Fleurier Quality Foundation certificate Movement Hand-wound Diameter 29.70 mm (13’’’) Thickness 6.10 mm Power reserve Approx. 216 hours (meaning 9 days), L.U.C Quattro technology, four barrels (two sets of two stacked barrels) Frequency 4Hz, 28,800 vph (vibrations per hour) Balance wheel Variner® Balance spring With Phillips terminal curve Decorations Bridges adorned with Côtes de Genève, circular-grained mainplate Jewels 33 Number of parts 219 Models L.U.C Tourbillon SL (page 78) Movement Hand-wound Diameter 29.70 mm (13’’’) Thickness 6.10 mm Power reserve Approx. 216 hours (meaning 9 days), L.U.C Quattro technology, four barrels (two sets of two stacked barrels) Frequency 4Hz, 28,800 vph (vibrations per hour) Balance wheel Variner® Balance spring With Phillips terminal curve Decorations Bridges adorned with Côtes de Genève, circular-grained mainplate Jewels 33 Number of parts 224 Models L.U.C Triple Certification Tourbillon (page 82) 186 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 186 20.09.11 11:06 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 187 20.09.11 11:06 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 188 20.09.11 11:06 Classic Racing Collection Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 189 20.09.11 11:06 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 190 20.09.11 11:06 Classic Racing Collection One of the special things about family companies is that the passions of those who run them are inevitably revealed in the products they create. A world away from opportunistic contracts with such or such a fashionable sport or brand, these passions represent sources of inspiration serving as a prism through which the products take shape and the ranges are built. The Classic Racing collection stems from the passion nurtured by Karl-Friedrich Scheufele for historical cars and for motor sports in general. A penchant for performance and speed, a passion for mechanics and tradition, a love of details and of fine workmanship are all key character traits that have guided him towards the creation of this fascinating collection. A collection that also highlights the many close affinities between the world of watchmaking and that of automobiles – whether it comes to precision in timing a race or in adjusting a movement; the readability of a dashboard or of a dial; or the extremely powerful ties between a driver and his car, and between a man and his watch. The Classic Racing collection is composed of timepieces featuring a design echoing that of classic cars: elegant and yet sporty, sleek and daring. Their mechanical qualities are matched by those of the speed machines that inspire them: reliability, sturdiness, and a level of precision attested by a chronometer certificate issued by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC). This love of tradition in no way precludes making use of futuristic technologies and materials. Since Chopard makes all its cases in-house, this approach gives it even greater freedom in the choice of materials and technologies: titanium, carbon, blackened steel… The Classic Racing collection is composed of four specific ranges, each paying tribute in its own way to the world of automobiles and motor sports: Superfast, Mille Miglia, Grand Prix de Monaco Historique and Jacky Ickx. 191 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 191 20.09.11 11:06 CL ASSIC R ACING COLLEC TION / SUPERFAST Superfast The Superfast model is the superlative sports watch. Its 45 mm-diameter case gives it a powerful presence on the wrist thanks to a boldly assertive personality. Its contemporary design, its technical characteristics and its luxurious finishing place it at the very peak of the Classic Racing collection. Witness the refinement displayed in every detail of its exterior. The case is water-resistant to 100 metres and its sides are engraved with a linear pattern evoking the cooling systems on classic cars and which is echoed on the dial. The black screw-locked crown bears the Classic Racing collection’s signature steering wheel motif. The rectangular chronograph pushers are rubber-coated to ensure a better grip when starting and resetting the mechanism. Nonetheless, the characteristics most clearly reflecting its exceptional personality are its bezel engraved with a tachometric scale and secured to the case-middle by eight black screws, along with the oversized 12 o’clock numeral adorning the dial. 192 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 192 20.09.11 11:06 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 193 20.09.11 11:06 CL ASSIC R ACING COLLEC TION / SUPERFAST This instinctively competitive timepiece houses an engine boasting performances to match its bodywork: a mechanical self-winding calibre beating at 28,800 vibrations per hour, a 42-hour power reserve, and a chronometer certificate issued by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC), the only official body in Switzerland authorised to guarantee the precision of a watch. 194 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 194 20.09.11 11:06 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 195 20.09.11 11:06 CL ASSIC R ACING COLLEC TION / SUPERFAST Superfast Split Second Here is a watch intended for all those looking for an exceptional instrument. Witness its characteristics and its performances: a mechanical self-winding movement equipped with a split-second chronograph, one of the most sophisticated complications, and a degree of precision attested to by a chronometer certificate delivered by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC). Its case middle is in steel with a Diamond Like Carbon (DLC) coating, an extremely hard protective treatment. The information displayed on the deep black dial is extremely readable thanks to the contrast created by the white and red hands. Its bezel bearing a tachometric scale is secured to the case by eight screws and ensures water resistance to 100 metres. To protect them from shocks, the chronograph pushers are integrated into the case middle and rubber-coated like the screw-locked crown. A red rubber coating on the split-second pusher at 8 o’clock accentuates the red and black contrasts featured on this exceptional model. This measuring instrument is available in a limited numbered series of 1,000. Functions Chronograph with split-second function, tachometric scale Indications Hours, minutes, small seconds, date, chronograph seconds hand, split-second hand, 30-minute counter, 12-hour counter, Certifications COSC certificate Movement Self-winding Power reserve Approx. 42 hours Frequency 4 Hz or 28,800 vibrations per hour Jewels 27 Case Diameter 45.00 mm Thickness 15.38 mm Water resistance 100 metres Bracelet Barenia calfskin or rubber with DLC blackened steel folding clasp 196 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 196 20.09.11 11:06 Superfast Split Second Reference 168542-3001 Material DLC blackened stainless steel Diameter 45.00 mm Limited edition 1000 (exclusively available from Chopard boutiques) 197 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 197 20.09.11 11:06 CL ASSIC R ACING COLLEC TION / SUPERFAST Superfast Chrono Built-in power and technical intricacy, rugged charm and refined touches: everything about the Superfast Chrono watch pays tribute to the fascinating world of classic cars. The sophistication of its exterior is equalled only by the technical nature of the mechanical self-winding movement guaranteeing extreme precision attested to by a chronometer certificate issued by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC). The Superfast Chrono is available in steel and in 18-carat rose gold, and fitted with a rubber or alligator leather strap equipped with a folding clasp. Functions Chronograph, tachometric scale Indications Hours, minutes, small seconds, date, chronograph seconds hand, 30-minute counter, 12-hour counter Certifications COSC certificate Movement Self-winding Power reserve Approx. 42 hours Frequency 4 Hz or 28,800 vibrations per hour Jewels 37 Case Diameter 45.00 mm Thickness 15.08 mm Water resistance 100 metres Strap Rubber or alligator leather with gold or steel folding clasp 198 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 198 20.09.11 11:06 Superfast Chrono Reference 168523-3001 Material Stainless steel Diameter 45.00 mm Superfast Chrono Reference 161276-5003 Material 18-carat rose gold Diameter 45.00 mm 199 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 199 20.09.11 11:06 CL ASSIC R ACING COLLEC TION / MILLE MIGLIA Mille Miglia As official timekeeper and global sponsor of the Mille Miglia, the world’s most famous regularity race for classic cars, Chopard has created a watch bearing the name of this prestigious event and which has become the brand’s unmistakable sporting emblem. Its unique and instantly recognisable design, and Chopard’s ability to constantly reinvent it without ever betraying it have made this watch one of the greatest classics of contemporary watchmaking. For over 20 years, Chopard has drawn the inspiration for this model from the beauty of the wonderful cars which, once a year, vie with each other to top the rankings in the race leading from Brescia to Rome and back. Passion, performance and precision have thus become the keynotes of a collection within which each model reveals the astonishing similarities between automobile engineering and mechanical horology. 200 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 200 20.09.11 11:06 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 201 20.09.11 11:06 CL ASSIC R ACING COLLEC TION / MILLE MIGLIA The sophisticated and aerodynamic design of their case-middles echoes the elegant curves of classic cars. Their dials are directly inspired by vintage dashboards, and a whole host of other refined and subtle features evoke the world of motor racing. The cases in steel, titanium or 18-carat gold house mechanical movements that all come with a chronometer certificate issued by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC). This certificate, which is granted after 16 days of tests, is a guarantee of their extreme long-term precision. Just as in a race such as the Mille Miglia, where the quality of a car is judged by its performances throughout the race, those of a watch are also best revealed over the long run. The “engines” of the Mille Miglia collection are highlighted by the broad variety of dials and functions, some of which prove particularly useful in competitions, such as the chronograph and the power reserve. Their readability, which is indispensable in a racing situation and when every second counts, is ensured by black or silver-toned dials featuring large-size numerals and glareproofed sapphire crystals. As for their sturdiness and their reliability, these qualities are equalled only by those of the classic cars that continue to deliver sterling performances over the years. 202 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 202 20.09.11 11:06 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 203 20.09.11 11:06 CL ASSIC R ACING COLLEC TION / MILLE MIGLIA Mille Miglia Gran Turismo XL The Mille Miglia Gran Turismo XL is distinguished by it size and its simplicity. Its 44 mm diameter makes it a timepiece with a boldly assertive personality. The protection device surrounding its screw-locked crown further accentuates the sturdy look of this model that is water-resistant to 100 metres. Its mechanical self-winding movement, the accuracy of which is confirmed by a chronometer certificate issued by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC), drives only the essential functions: hour, minute, seconds and date. This simplicity is reinforced by the readability of a dial featuring oversized 12 and 6 o’clock numerals. The Mille Miglia Gran Turismo XL is available in steel and 18-carat rose gold, teamed with a leather or rubber strap, or a steel bracelet. Indications Hours, minutes, seconds, date Certifications COSC certificate Movement Self-winding Power reserve Approx. 46 hours Frequency 4 Hz or 28,800 vibrations per hour Jewels 24 Case Diameter 44.00 mm Thickness 14.56 mm Water resistance 100 metres Strap Rubber, barenia calfskin or alligator leather strap with gold or steel folding clasp. Also available with a steel bracelet 204 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 204 20.09.11 11:06 Mille Miglia Gran Turismo XL Reference 168997-3001 Material Stainless steel Diameter 44.00 mm Mille Miglia Gran Turismo XL Reference 158997-3001 Material Stainless steel Diameter 44.00 mm Mille Miglia Gran Turismo XL Reference 161264-5001 Material 18-carat rose gold Diameter 44.00 mm 205 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 205 20.09.11 11:06 CL ASSIC R ACING COLLEC TION / MILLE MIGLIA Mille Miglia GT XL Power Control The dial of the Mille Miglia GT XL Power Control watch is a remarkable blend of symmetry and simplicity. It bears an oversized 12 o’clock numeral appearing opposite a powerreserve indicator designed like a petrol gauge such as can be found on the dashboards of vintage cars. This power reserve amounts to around 46 hours. The readability of the date is enhanced by a magnifying window integrated into the watch glass. Thanks to a minute track with quarter-second graduations, the watch also provides particularly accurate read-off, and this very precision is guaranteed by the chronometer certificate issued by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC). It is available in steel, in titanium and in 18-carat rose gold, fitted with a leather or rubber strap or a steel bracelet. Indications Hours, minutes, seconds, date, power-reserve indicator Certifications COSC certificate Movement Self-winding Power reserve Approx. 46 hours Frequency 4 Hz or 28,800 vibrations per hour Jewels 24 Case Diameter 44.00 mm Thickness 14.56 mm Water resistance 100 metres Strap Rubber, barenia calfskin or alligator leather with folding clasp in steel, gold or titanium. Also available with a steel bracelet 206 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 206 20.09.11 11:06 Mille Miglia GT XL Power Control Reference 168457-3001 Material Stainless steel Diameter 44.00 mm Mille Miglia GT XL Power Control Reference 158457-3001 Material Stainless steel Diameter 44.00 mm 207 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 207 20.09.11 11:06 CL ASSIC R ACING COLLEC TION / MILLE MIGLIA Mille Miglia GT XL Power Control Reference 168457-3005 Material Titanium Diameter 44.00 mm Limited edition 1000 Mille Miglia GT XL Power Control Reference 168457-3002 Material Stainless steel Diameter 44.00 mm 208 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 208 20.09.11 11:06 Mille Miglia GT XL Power Control Reference 161272-5001 Material 18-carat rose gold Diameter 44.00 mm 209 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 209 20.09.11 11:06 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 210 20.09.11 11:06 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 211 20.09.11 11:06 CL ASSIC R ACING COLLEC TION / MILLE MIGLIA Mille Miglia GT XL GMT Travellers will particularly appreciate this version of the Mille Miglia GT XL GMT watch. Its dial, which is especially readable thanks to the generous 44 mm size of the case, displays a view of the globe from the North Pole, thus enabling fast and intuitive calculation of the time difference between one time zone and another. A short hand running over this unusual view of the earth also constantly displays the time, expressed in 24-hour mode, in a given time zone. Its precision is certified by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC), while the minute circle enables 1/4th second readings. The Mille Miglia GT XL GMT is available in steel and in 18-carat rose gold versions, fitted with a leather or rubber strap or a steel bracelet. Functions GMT Indications Hours, minutes, seconds, date, dual time-zone display Certifications COSC certificate Movement Self-winding Power reserve Approx. 46 hours Frequency 4 Hz or 28,800 vibrations per hour Jewels 24 Case Diameter 44.00 mm Thickness 14.56 mm Water resistance 100 metres Strap Rubber, barenia calfskin or alligator leather with steel or gold folding clasp. Also available with a steel bracelet 212 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 212 20.09.11 11:06 Mille Miglia GT XL GMT Reference 158514-3001 Material Stainless steel Diameter 44.00 mm Mille Miglia GT XL GMT Reference 168514-3001 Material Stainless steel Diameter 44.00 mm Mille Miglia GT XL GMT Reference 161277-5001 Material 18-carat rose gold Diameter 44.00 mm 213 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 213 20.09.11 11:06 CL ASSIC R ACING COLLEC TION / MILLE MIGLIA Mille Miglia GT XL Chrono 2011 This brand-new model provides exceptional readability, an essential prerequisite for using its many functions in an optimal way. Its large-size 44 mm case fitted with an extremely slender bezel provides a maximum of space for the indications appearing on the engineturned dial, while nonetheless remaining reasonably sized. The only exception is the date, topped by a magnifying glass. The hour numerals printed beneath the crystal further lighten up the overall design. A crown guard incorporating the chronograph pushers reinforces the robust appearance of the case-middle that is water-resistant to 100 metres. The ultra-precise mechanical self-winding movement is chronometer-certified by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC). The Mille Miglia GT XL Chrono 2011 is available in steel and in 18-carat rose gold, fitted with a leather or rubber strap. Functions Chronograph, tachometric scale Indications Hours, minutes, small seconds, date, chronograph seconds hand, 30-minute counter, 12-hour counter Certifications COSC certificate Movement Self-winding Power reserve Approx. 46 hours Frequency 4 Hz or 28,800 vibrations per hour Jewels 25 Case Diameter 44.00 mm Thickness 14.56 mm Water resistance 100 metres Strap Rubber, barenia calfskin or alligator leather with gold or steel folding clasp 214 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 214 20.09.11 11:06 Mille Miglia GT XL Chrono Reference 168459-3037 Material Stainless steel Diameter 44.00 mm Limited edition 2011 Mille Miglia GT XL Chrono Reference 161268-5010 Material 18-carat rose gold Diameter 44.00 mm Limited edition 250 215 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 215 20.09.11 11:06 CL ASSIC R ACING COLLEC TION / MILLE MIGLIA Mille Miglia GT XL Chrono Rosso Corsa Red is the colour of passion and emotions. A colour ideally suited for a timepiece with the technical nature and appearance of a racing car. A mechanical self-winding movement ensuring a degree of precision certified by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC), a tachometric scale on the bezel enabling easy speed calculations, integrated crown guard and chronograph pushers, water resistance to 100 metres, a perforated calfskin strap with red stitching: every aspect of the Mille Miglia GT XL Chrono Rossa Corsa evokes a world of speed and performance. This model is available in a 1,000-piece titanium only limited numbered edition. Functions Chronograph, tachometric scale Indications Hours, minutes, small seconds, date, chronograph seconds hand, 30-minute counter, 12-hour counter Certifications COSC certificate Movement Self-winding Power reserve Approx. 46 hours Frequency 4 Hz or 28,800 vibrations per hour Jewels 25 Case Diameter 44.00 mm Thickness 14.56 mm Water resistance 100 metres Strap Barenia calfskin with titanium pin buckle 216 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 216 20.09.11 11:06 Mille Miglia GT XL Chrono Rosso Corsa Reference 168459-3036 Material Titanium Diameter 44.00 mm Limited edition 1000 Available exclusively from Chopard Boutiques 217 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 217 20.09.11 11:06 CL ASSIC R ACING COLLEC TION / MILLE MIGLIA Mille Miglia GT XL Chrono Thanks to a generous 44 mm diameter, the Mille Miglia GT XL Chrono watch boasts excellent legibility that enables easy read-off of all its functions: hours with oversized 12 and 6 o’clock numerals, an ultra-precise minute track (with graduations and subgraduations every 15 seconds), small seconds at 9 o’clock, date at 3 o’clock equipped with magnifying window integrated into the sapphire crystal, chronograph minutes at 12 o’clock and chronograph hours at 6 o’clock. This excellent readability is further enhanced by the presence of luminescent hour-markers placed every five minutes. Its sturdiness is ensured by water resistance to 100 metres and a protective device for its screw-locked crown and pushers. The tachometric scale appearing on the bezel is an ideal measuring instrument for motor racing, since it serves to calculate speed by means of the milestones placed along roads. Its precision is guaranteed by a chronometer certificate issued by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC). It is available in steel and in 18-carat rose gold versions, teamed with a leather or rubber strap, or a steel bracelet. Functions Chronograph, tachometric scale Indications Hours, minutes, small seconds, date, chronograph seconds hands, 30-minute counter, 12-hour counter Certifications COSC certificate Movement Self-winding Power reserve Approx. 46 hours Frequency 4 Hz or 28,800 vibrations per hour Jewels 25 Case Diameter 44.00 mm Thickness 14.36 mm Water resistance 100 metres Strap Rubber, barenia calfskin or alligator leather with steel folding clasp or rose gold pin buckle. Also available with a steel bracelet 218 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 218 20.09.11 11:06 Mille Miglia GT XL Chrono Reference 168459-3001 Material Stainless steel Diameter 44.00 mm Mille Miglia GT XL Chrono Reference 158459-3001 Material Stainless steel Diameter 44.00 mm 219 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 219 20.09.11 11:06 CL ASSIC R ACING COLLEC TION / MILLE MIGLIA Mille Miglia GT XL Chrono Reference 168459-3015 Material Stainless steel Diameter 44.00 mm Mille Miglia GT XL Chrono Reference 168459-3022 Material DLC-treated stainless steel Diameter 44.00 mm Limited edition Available exclusively from Chopard boutiques 220 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 220 20.09.11 11:06 Mille Miglia GT XL Chrono Reference 161268-5006 Material 18-carat rose gold Diameter 44.00 mm 221 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 221 20.09.11 11:06 CL ASSIC R ACING COLLEC TION / MILLE MIGLIA Mille Miglia GT XL Chrono Split Second Beneath its sporty and dynamic exterior, the Mille Miglia GT XL Chrono Split Second houses one of the most complex of all horological complications: the split-second chronograph. This device serves to measure and display the duration of a phenomenon due to the momentary stoppage of a first seconds hand, while another hand continues running and the chronograph continues operating. A press on the split-second pusher at 8 o’clock enables the first hand to catch up with the other until the next measurement of another intermediate or “split” time. This model is also equipped with a date display, a tachometric scale and a screw-locked crown. It is available in 18-carat rose gold and steel, fitted with a rubber or Barenia calfskin strap or a steel bracelet, all in limited numbered series. Functions Chronograph with split-second function, tachometric scale Indications Hours, minutes, small seconds, date, chronograph seconds hand, split-second hand, 30-minute counter, 12-hour counter Certifications COSC certificate Movement Self-winding Power reserve Approx. 46 hours Frequency 4 Hz or 28,800 vibrations per hour Jewels 27 Case Diameter 44.00 mm Thickness 15.86 mm Water resistance 100 metres Strap Rubber, barenia calfskin or alligator leather with gold or steel folding clasp 222 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 222 20.09.11 11:06 Mille Miglia GT XL Chrono Split Second Reference 168513-3001 Material Stainless steel Diameter 44.00 mm Limited edition 1000 Mille Miglia GT XL Chrono Split Second Reference 161280-5001 Material 18-carat rose gold Diameter 44.00 mm Limited edition 500 Mille Miglia GT XL Chrono Split Second Reference 168513-3002 Material DLC-treated stainless steel Diameter 44.00 mm Limited edition 1000 Available exclusively from Chopard boutiques 223 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 223 20.09.11 11:06 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 224 20.09.11 11:06 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 225 20.09.11 11:06 CL ASSIC R ACING COLLEC TION / MILLE MIGLIA Mille Miglia Chronograph This contemporary expression of a best-selling model from the late 1990s features an updated design and an even stronger personality. It is fitted with a black or silver-toned sunburst finished dial displaying the hours, minutes, small seconds, date and chronograph. Its 42 mm-diameter case middle, water-resistant to 50 metres, bears a tachometric scale printed around its dial, and its mechanical self-winding movement beating at 28,800 vibrations per hour is chronometer-certified by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC). The Mille Miglia Chronograph is available in 18-carat rose gold and steel versions, fitted with an alligator leather strap, or a rubber strap embossed with the 1960s Dunlop racing tyre-tread motif. Functions Chronograph, tachometric scale Indications Hours, minutes, small seconds, date, chronograph seconds hand, 30-minute counter, 12-hour counter Certifications COSC certificate Movement Self-winding Power reserve Approx. 42 hours Frequency 4 Hz or 28,800 vibrations per hour Jewels 37 Case Diameter 42.00 mm Thickness 12.31 mm Water resistance 50 metres Strap Rubber or alligator leather with gold or steel pin buckle 226 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 226 20.09.11 11:06 Mille Miglia Chronograph Reference 161274-5002 Material 18-carat rose gold Diameter 42.00 mm Limited edition 500 Mille Miglia Chronograph Reference 168511-3001 Material Stainless steel Diameter 42.00 mm Mille Miglia Chronograph Reference 168511-3015 Material Stainless steel Diameter 42.00 mm 227 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 227 20.09.11 11:06 CL ASSIC R ACING COLLEC TION / MILLE MIGLIA Mille Miglia GMT Chrono Like a racing car dashboard, this competition model manages to express its numerous functions in an impressively readable manner. While the GMT function is displayed on the bezel and is read off by a hand with a luminescent triangular tip, the tachometric scale appears on the inner bezel ring around the 1/4th second minute-circle and the date is equipped with a magnifying window. The subdials show the small seconds at 9 o’clock, the chronograph minutes at 12 o’clock and the chronograph hours at 6 o’clock. The precision of the Mile Miglia GMT Chrono is guaranteed by a chronometer certificate issued by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC). This watch is available in steel and 18-carat rose gold versions, fitted with leather or rubber straps or a steel bracelet. Functions Chronograph, GMT, tachometric scale Indications Hours, minutes, small seconds, date, Chronograph seconds hand, 30-minute counter, 12-hour counter, dual time-zone display Certifications COSC certificate Movement Self-winding Power reserve Approx. 46 hours Frequency 4 Hz or 28,800 vibrations per hour Jewels 25 Case Diameter 42.50 mm Thickness 14.85 mm Water resistance 50 metres Strap/bracelet Rubber, barenia calfskin or alligator leather with steel or gold folding clasp. Also available with a steel bracelet 228 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 228 20.09.11 11:06 Mille Miglia GMT Chrono Reference 168992-3001 Material Stainless steel Diameter 42.50 mm Mille Miglia GMT Chrono Reference 168992-3003 Material Stainless steel Diameter 42.50 mm 229 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 229 20.09.11 11:06 CL ASSIC R ACING COLLEC TION / MILLE MIGLIA Mille Miglia GMT Chrono Reference 158992-3002 Material Stainless steel Diameter 42.50 mm Mille Miglia GMT Chrono Reference 158992-3001 Material Stainless steel Diameter 42.50 mm Mille Miglia GMT Chrono Reference 168992-3022 Material Stainless steel Diameter 42.50 mm Mille Miglia GMT Chrono Reference 158992-3005 Material Stainless steel Diameter 42.50 mm 230 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 230 20.09.11 11:06 Mille Miglia GMT Chrono Reference 161267-5002 Material 18-carat rose gold Diameter 42.50 mm Mille Miglia GMT Chrono Reference 161267-5001 Material 18-carat rose gold Diameter 42.50 mm Mille Miglia GMT Chrono Reference 161267-5003 Material 18-carat rose gold Diameter 42.50 mm Mille Miglia GMT Chrono Reference 168992-3023 Material DLC-treated stainless steel Diameter 42.50 mm Limited edition 1000 Available exclusively from Chopard boutiques 231 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 231 20.09.11 11:06 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 232 20.09.11 11:06 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 233 20.09.11 11:06 CL ASSIC R ACING COLLEC TION / GR AND PRIX DE MONACO HISTORIQUE Grand Prix de Monaco Historique The Grand Prix de Monaco Historique is the vintage version of one of the world’s most famous Formula 1 Grand Prix races. Created in 1998 on the occasion of the 700th anniversary of the Grimaldi family’s accession to the throne of the Principality, this race takes the same course along the roads of the Monaco state, but is intended exclusively for classic racing cars, making it an event unique in its kind. Although originally intended to be a one-off happening, it proved such a success that the organisers decided to repeat it every two years. Over the years, the Grand Prix de Monaco Historique has become a favourite venue for classic car devotees and attracts collectors from around the world, especially from England, the United States, Germany, France and Italy. Every two years, these racingcar enthusiasts invade the principality along with the cars that they have spent weeks assembling and dismantling, repairing and adjusting in order to prepare them for this stern trial. Their passion for mechanics and performance is reminiscent of that shown by the watchmaker at his bench… The Grand Prix de Monaco Historique brings together every two years more than 200 vehicles that have all made their mark on successive eras, including models by Bugatti, Delage, Alfa Romeo, Aston Martin, Jaguar, Maserati and Ferrari, along with Formula 1 cars built before 1979 by manufacturers such as Brabham, Lotus and Williams. 23 4 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 234 20.09.11 11:06 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 235 20.09.11 11:06 CL ASSIC R ACING COLLEC TION / GR AND PRIX DE MONACO HISTORIQUE As official timekeeper of the event since 2002, Chopard has created a collection of exceptional chronographs paying tribute to the competition. Inspired by these classic cars in terms of both their finishing and their performances, all are equipped with a calibre that is chronometer-certified by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC) and bears the logo of the Automobile Club de Monaco. 236 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 236 20.09.11 11:06 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 237 20.09.11 11:06 CL ASSIC R ACING COLLEC TION / GR AND PRIX DE MONACO HISTORIQUE Grand Prix de Monaco Historique 2010 This timepiece radiates a sense of elegance and technical sophistication characteristic of classic racing cars. Contrasting finishes, a balanced black and white colour scheme, a few touches of orange and blue, refined materials, a leather strap designed like driver’s gloves: everything about it reflects speed and leading the field on a racing track. Its transparent case-back provides a chance to admire the mechanical self-winding movement boasting a precision guaranteed by the chronometer certificate issued by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC). The centre of the watch glass carries the insignia of the Automobile Club de Monaco, the state hosting the prestigious Grand Prix after which this model is named. Functions Chronograph, tachometric scale Indications Hours, minutes, small seconds, date, chronograph seconds hand, 30-minute counter, 12-hour counter Certifications COSC certificate Movement Self-winding Power reserve Approx. 48 hours Frequency 4 Hz or 28,800 vibrations per hour Jewels 25 Case Diameter 42.40 mm Thickness 14.67 mm Water resistance 50 metres Strap Rubber, barenia calfskin or alligator leather with steel or gold folding clasp. Also available with a steel bracelet 238 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 238 20.09.11 11:06 Grand Prix de Monaco Historique 2010 Reference 168992-3031 Material Stainless steel Diameter 42.40 mm Grand Prix de Monaco Historique 2010 Reference 158992-3006 Material Stainless steel Diameter 42.40 mm Grand Prix de Monaco Historique 2010 Reference 161275-5003 Material 18-carat rose gold Diameter 42.40 mm Limited edition 250 239 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 239 20.09.11 11:06 CL ASSIC R ACING COLLEC TION / GR AND PRIX DE MONACO HISTORIQUE Grand Prix de Monaco Historique Time Attack MF The Time Attack MF model features external characteristics reflecting the spirit of elegance and tradition of the Grand Prix de Monaco Historique that Chopard has been partnering since 2002: a slender black bezel bearing a tachometric scale; a pure dial with luminescent hour-markers; a 42.40 mm-diameter case; and a perforated leather strap evoking the design of sporty steering wheel covers. Its case nonetheless houses a masterpiece of contemporary technology: a quartz calibre driving analogue-type displays of the hours, minutes and central seconds; as well as a digital display of the 1/100th of a second splitsecond chronograph function, perpetual calendar, countdown, alarm, and dual time-zone complete with its own alarm. This calibre enjoys the rare distinction of being chronometercertified by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC), according to a protocol specifically reserved for quartz movements. Functions 1/100th second chronograph with split-second function, perpetual calendar, alarm, countdown, dual time-zone display with independent alarm, UTC (coordinated universal time), tachometric scale Indications Hours, minutes, seconds, chronograph seconds hand Certifications COSC certificate Movement Quartz Case Diameter 42.40 mm Thickness 14.40 mm Water resistance 50 metres Strap Rubber, barenia calfskin or alligator leather with steel folding clasp. Also available with a steel bracelet 2 40 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 240 20.09.11 11:06 Grand Prix de Monaco Historique Time Attack MF Reference 168518-3001 Material Stainless steel Diameter 42.40 mm Grand Prix de Monaco Historique Time Attack MF Reference 158518-3001 Material Stainless steel Diameter 42.40 mm 2 41 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 241 20.09.11 11:06 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 242 20.09.11 11:06 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 243 20.09.11 11:06 CL ASSIC R ACING COLLEC TION / JACK Y ICK X Jacky Ickx Jacky Ickx is one of the most fascinating racing drivers of the 20th century. His career is impressive not only in terms of his many victories, but also because of the large variety of disciplines in which this exceptional sportsman distinguished himself. These included Formula 1 motor-racing, car rallies, and above all the endurance races that forged his formidable reputation – especially after winning the Le Mans 24 Hours race six times, a feat that earned him the nickname “Monsieur Le Mans”. This gifted driver is also a gentleman who has made his mark on the automobile world thanks to his fair-play and elegance. It was thus in tribute to both his human and professional qualities that Chopard chose to create a collection bearing his name. It is composed of extremely sturdy models with dials designed to be ultra-legible, even at speeds of 200 km/h, and powered by movements specially developed to handle the timing of long-duration sports competitions of up to 24 hours. 244 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 244 20.09.11 11:06 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 245 20.09.11 11:06 CL ASSIC R ACING COLLEC TION / JACK Y ICK X The Jacky Ickx collection is composed of timepieces combining high technicality with sophisticated elegance. They are all equipped with mechanical self-winding calibres boasting precision attested to by a chronometer rating certificate issued by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC). All have a chronograph complication with flyback function, and a Chopard-exclusive hour counter expressed in 24-hour mode. The position of this counter at 6 o’clock on the dial is a discreet nod to the number of victories earned by Jacky Ickx in the Le Mans 24 Hours endurance race. 2 46 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 246 20.09.11 11:07 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 247 20.09.11 11:07 CL ASSIC R ACING COLLEC TION / JACK Y ICK X Jacky Ickx Edition V The 5th edition of the Jacky Ickx watch proclaims its automobile origins right the way through to its chronograph pushers shaped like engine cylinders. The dial plays with contrasts reminiscent of those on racing-car speedometers. Small seconds, ultra-readable large date, 24-hour chronograph with flyback function, tachometric scale, precision guaranteed by a chronometer rating certificate issued by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC): the Jacky Ickx Edition V is designed like a measuring instrument cut out for speed and competition. It is available in limited numbered series of 2,000 in steel and 500 in 18-carat rose gold. Functions Flyback chronograph, tachometric scale Indications Hours, minutes, small seconds, date, chronograph seconds hand, 60-minute counter, 24-hour counter Certifications COSC certificate Movement Self-winding Power reserve Approx. 40 hours Frequency 4 Hz or 28,800 vibrations per hour Jewels 49 Case Diameter 42.40 mm Thickness 14.23 mm Water resistance 50 metres Strap Rubber, Barenia calfskin or alligator leather with steel or gold folding clasp 2 48 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 248 20.09.11 11:07 Jacky Ickx Edition V Reference 168543-3001 Material Stainless steel Diameter 42.40 mm Limited edition 2000 Jacky Ickx Edition V Reference 161286-5001 Material 18-carat rose gold Diameter 42.40 mm Limited edition 500 2 49 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 249 20.09.11 11:07 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 250 20.09.11 11:07 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 251 20.09.11 11:07 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 252 20.09.11 11:07 Annexes Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 253 20.09.11 11:07 ANNEXES Customer Service For more than 150 years, the House of Chopard has been producing watch and jewellery creations of outstanding quality. Eager to ensure they procure lasting pleasure for those who have acquired them, the company is determined to provide the latter with a customer service on a par with its reputation via a worldwide network of Chopard official authorised retailers and Official Service Centres. Maintenance and repairs of Chopard watches are performed by specialised watchmakers and polishers capable of working both on recent models and on older ones. These experienced artisans have the apparatus, documentation, specific tools and original components required to intervene on all our timepieces. They also receive regular refresher courses in order to know and master all the latest technological features introduced by the company. Each Chopard timepiece that comes through our workshops will thus be handled with great care in order to ensure a long life for an object that is rightly considered as both a source of pleasure and a sound investment. 25 4 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 254 20.09.11 11:07 Services The lifespan of our watches may extend over several generations, provided they are given the care they deserve. Composed of hundreds of parts in continuous operation, Chopard movements require particular care and regular maintenance. In order to guarantee their performances, they must therefore be entrusted exclusively to a Chopard official authorised retailer or Official Service Centre, which will perform the necessary maintenance operations. Once a year, or before any extended period of aquatic activity, we also recommend that you have the water resistance of your Chopard watch checked by a Chopard official authorised retailer or Official Service Centre, which will replace any gaskets if required. Chopard offers two types of services for its watches: a maintenance service and a complete overhaul. If so requested, polishing may also be performed in addition to the aforementioned services. All services and repairs undertaken in a Chopard Official Service Centre are guaranteed for a full one-year period. 255 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 255 20.09.11 11:07 ANNEXES Maintenance service 1. Verification of the proper lubrication and of the movement functions in order to ensure it is running according to Chopard specifications. 2. Cleaning and lubrication of the escapement (for mechanical movements) or change of battery (for quartz movements), the source of energy of the movement. 3. Adjustment of the daily rate of the movement using apparatus serving to simulate real-life conditions of wear. 4. Cleaning of the case, metal bracelet and buckle using an ultra-sound bath. 5. Replacement of the joints and verification of water resistance in order to ensure that no water or dust can enter the case. 6. Final control: each function of the watch movement, as well as the appearance of the case and bracelet, are meticulously checked in order to ensure their strict compliance with both technical and aesthetic criteria. 256 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 256 20.09.11 11:07 Full overhaul 1. Dismantling of the movement, cleaning, followed by winding and lubrication. Verification of the proper running of all functions. 2. Repair or replacement of any defective parts. 3. Adjustment of the daily rate of the movement using apparatus serving to simulate real-life conditions of wear. 4. Battery replacement for quartz watches. 5. Cleaning of the case, metal bracelet and buckle using an ultra-sound bath. 6. Replacement of the joints and verification of water resistance in order to ensure that no water or dust can enter the case. 7. Final control: all the watch movement functions, as well as the appearance of the case and bracelet, are meticulously checked in order to ensure their strict compliance with both technical and aesthetic criteria. You will find a full list of Chopard official authorised retailers on our www.chopard.com website. 257 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 257 20.09.11 11:07 ANNEXES Guarantee Chopard watches are crafted with meticulous care and subjected to stringent quality controls. Nonetheless, like any precision instrument, they require regular maintenance that only a specialist can handle. Any servicing or repairs must be performed exclusively by a Chopard official authorised retailer or Official Service Centre. We guarantee Chopard watches against any manufacturing flaw or defect for two years as of the date of purchase. Nevertheless, if it should need to be examined during this period, the owner may simply present the watch along with its duly filled-out certificate of guarantee to a Chopard official authorised retailer or Official Service Centre. 258 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 258 20.09.11 11:07 Chopard milestones 1836 May 4th, birth of Louis-Ulysse Chopard in Sonvilier in the Swiss Jura. 1860 24 year-old Louis-Ulysse Chopard founds a high-precision watch manufactory specialising in pocket-watches and chronometers, in Sonvilier, Switzerland. 1912 Karl Scheufele I invents the so-called ”pocket-watch clip” 1921 Paul-Louis Chopard, who has taken over the business, opens a subsidiary company in La Chaux-de-Fonds. 1937 Chopard relocates to Geneva. 1943 Paul-André Chopard. son of Paul-Louis, takes over the Chopard company. 1963 Paul-André Chopard sells Chopard to Karl Scheufele III. 1974 The company moves from the centre of Geneva to the new Meyrin-Geneva site. 1976 Creation of the first Happy Diamonds watch. 1980 Launch of the first steel sports watch: the St. Moritz model. 1983 Launch of the Monte Carlo collection. Opening of the brand’s first ever boutique, in Hong Kong. 1985 Launch of the Alta Moda collection to mark Chopard’s 125th anniversary. Creation of the Happy Diamonds Clown, marking the start of Chopard jewellery. Karl-Friedrich and Caroline Scheufele are appointed vice-presidents of the Chopard group. 1986 Launch of the Gstaad collection. 1988 Start of the partnership between Chopard and the Mille Miglia, the legendary classic car rally in Italy. Chopard creates the Mille Miglia sports watch collection. 1989 Opening of the first Chopard boutique in Europe, located in Vienna, Austria. 1993 Launch of the Happy Sport watch collection. 259 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 259 20.09.11 11:07 ANNEXES 1994 Launch of the La Strada and Imperiale collections. 1996 The company returns to its roots: Karl-Friedrich Scheufele founds the “Manufacture” in Fleurier, in the Swiss Jura, dedicated to the production of mechanical L.U.C movements. 1997 The L.U.C 1860 model, equipped with L.U.C Calibre 96.01-L (L.U.C 1.96), is voted “Watch of the Year” by the Swiss Montres Passion/Uhrenwelt magazine. 1998 Chopard becomes official partner of the Cannes Film Festival and Caroline Scheufele redesigns the Palme d’Or, now crafted in the Chopard workshops. 2000 Presentation of the world-first L.U.C Quattro watch, equipped with L.U.C Calibre 98.01-L (L.U.C 1.98), featuring four barrels (two sets of two stacked barrels, the patented L.U.C Quattro technology), endowing the watch with a nine-day power reserve. 2001 Launch of the L.U.C Tonneau model, equipped with the first tonneau-shaped selfwinding movement (L.U.C 97.03-L), fitted with an off-centre micro-rotor. Caroline and Karl-Friedrich Scheufele are appointed Co-Presidents of Chopard. 2002 Presentation of a new jewellery concept with the launch of the new Golden Diamonds collection. Chopard becomes official timekeeper of the prestigious Grand Prix de Monaco Historique, a classic car race held in Monte Carlo. Launch of the Elton John watch collection on behalf of the Elton John AIDS Foundation. 2003 Presentation of the first L.U.C Tourbillon model, representing a major technological accomplishment in the field of fine watchmaking. Creation of the Jacky Ickx watch line. 260 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 260 20.09.11 11:07 2004 Presentation of the L.U.C Regulator watch, which wins the “Watch of the Year” prize awarded by the Swiss magazine Montres Passion/Uhrenwelt. 2005 Presentation of the L.U.C Lunar One watch, driven by mechanical self-winding L.U.C Calibre 96.13-L (L.U.C 96 QP), featuring perpetual calendar and orbital moon-phase functions. 2006 Presentation of the L.U.C Chrono One watch, the first chronograph in the L.U.C collection, initially equipped with Calibre 10 CF and later with Calibre 11 CF, to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Chopard Manufacture. Inauguration of the L.U.CEUM in Fleurier. 2007 Introduction of the first Haute Joaillerie Red Carpet collection dedicated to the Cannes Film Festival. 2008 The Fleurier Ebauches SA company is founded in Fleurier. 2009 Presentation at Baselworld of the L.U.C Tourbillon Tech Twist watch equipped with a silicon escapement. Introduction of a high-frequency (10 Hertz) escapement developed by Chopard Technologies. 2010 Celebration of Chopard’s 150th anniversary and presentation of four new calibres equipping four exceptional timepieces: L.U.C 150 “All-in-One”, L.U.C Louis Ulysse – The Tribute, L.U.C Engine One Tourbillon and L.U.C 1937. 2011 Launch of the first watch combining the COSC certification, the prestigious Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark and the Fleurier Quality Foundation label (a world first): the L.U.C Triple Certification Tourbillon. 261 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 261 20.09.11 11:07 ANNEXES 262 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 262 20.09.11 11:07 Glossary Appliques The hour numerals or decorations that are cut from sheets of metal then affixed to the dial. Balance A circular, moving part which oscillates on its rotational axis. It is coupled to the balance spring which gives it the to-and-fro motion through which it divides time into strictly equal parts. Each to-and-fro movement (“tick-tock”) is called an oscillation, and each oscillation comprises two vibrations. A circular mass (rim) held by spokes. Combined with the balance spring, it forms the regulating organ of the watch. Balance spring A very fine spring and the “soul” of a mechanical watch. Its ends are affixed to the balance and the balance-cock. Its elasticity allows the balance to make regular oscillations. Its length, and the balance’s moment of inertia, determine the duration of each oscillation. Its length can be altered to regulate the watch. Barrel A cylindrical box (the barrel) and toothed disc (wheel), protected by a cover. The barrel, which contains the mainspring, turns freely on its arbor. The mainspring is hooked to the barrel at its outer extremity and to the arbor at its inner extremity. The barrel wheel meshes with the first pinion of the gear train. As it slowly rotates, its arc varies from oneninth to one-sixth of a revolution per hour. Blued steel Steel that has been heated until its surface oxidises to become a more or less dark blue. Bow Variously-shaped ring for suspending a pocket watch and fastening a chain. 263 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 263 20.09.11 11:07 ANNEXES Bridge A metal plate fixed to the mainplate on which one of the pivots of the wheels and pinions turns. Both ends of the bridge are secured to the mainplate by screws. Generally a bridge is named according to its function, e.g. centre-wheel bridge, barrel bridge, balance-cock, etc. Case up To insert and secure the movement inside the case. Chamfering To form a flat surface by hand-filing the sharp edge of a bridge, plate, screw head, etc., so as to give the part a perfect appearance. Chamfering is a distinguishing feature of a superior quality watch. Chronofiable A joint certification project by a consortium of watch companies which accelerates the watch’s ageing process by a factor of eight to simulate the effects of six months’ wear in three weeks. The majority of leading watch brands submit watches for testing and are issued with a Chronofiable certificate. Chronograph A watch indicating hours, minutes and seconds combined with a mechanism whose hand can be started, stopped and returned to zero on demand to measure the duration of a phenomenon to one fifth, tenth or even hundredth of a second. Subcounters for the minutes and hours (usually 30 minutes and 12 hours) totalise the number of revolutions of the chronograph hand. The accuracy of these recorded times can only be guaranteed if the chronograph has satisfied the criteria of the “chronometer” label. 264 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 264 20.09.11 11:07 Chronometer A chronometer is, etymologically, an instrument for measuring the time. In common usage it has come to mean a high-precision watch displaying seconds whose movement has been controlled over a period of several days, in different positions and at different temperatures, by an official neutral body. Only mechanisms that have satisfied the criteria for precision of ISO 3159, or its equivalent, are issued with an official chronometer certificate. In Switzerland, the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC) has the power to award these certificates. Based on the requirements of ISO 3159, the COSC has also drawn up a set of specifications for the testing of quartz movements. While a chronograph can be used to measure an interval of time, it can only use the name “chronometer” if it has been officially certified as such. Circular-graining (stippling) A decorative finish of overlapping circles in a close-set concentric pattern that gives a distinctive textured effect. Collet Small cylinder fitted friction-tight to the balance-staff. Column wheel The wheel which coordinates the start, stop and return to zero functions of the chronograph hand. In a standard quality chronograph, the column wheel is replaced by a system of cams. Complication Any function other than the indication of hours, minutes and seconds, regardless of whether the mechanism is hand-wound or self-winding, mechanical or electronic, and of movement thickness. The tourbillon and the self-winding system are considered to be complications even though they do not fall within the generic definition. 265 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 265 20.09.11 11:07 ANNEXES COSC certification cf page 158 Côtes de Genève A decoration of undulating lines, like waves, frequently used to embellish superior quality movements. Date The number, in order, of each day in the month. Dauphine (hands) A type of hand shaped like an elongated triangle. DLC Diamond Like Carbon, a coating operation that creates a black appearance. Ébauche An unfinished movement sold as such. Until circa 1850, an ébauche comprised only the plate, bridges, fusee and barrel. It was known as a blanc (blank) and was finished in the établissage workshops. The modern ébauche is a watch movement, with or without jewels but always without its regulating organ, mainspring, dial and hands. It is also known as a blanc roulant. Escapement A mechanism that is fitted between the gears and the regulating organ. Its function is to suspend the gears’ motion at regular intervals and to periodically supply energy to the balance. Electroplating A plating technique using an electrolytic process. 266 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 266 20.09.11 11:07 Engine-turning (guilloché) A style of hand or machine engraving with intersecting wavy or straight lines. When the piece is moved horizontally or vertically against the tool, the finished effect is guilloché, whereas flinqué follows a radial movement. Equation of time The equation of time is the difference between true solar time and mean time. True solar time, given by sundials, varies from day to day because of the Earth’s elliptical orbit, and according to the longitude of the point of observation. Mean time, given by watches, ignores these variations and for every day of the year mathematically divides time into equal hours. Four times a year, on April 15th, June 14th, September 1st and December 24th, true solar time and mean time coincide. On the other days, the difference ranges from minus 16 minutes and 23 seconds on November 4th, to plus 14 minutes and 22 seconds on February 11th. Exterior The different parts (case, dial, hands, crystal, crown, etc.) that help to give the watch its finished and functional appearance. Fleurier Quality Foundation cf page 158 Fleurisanne engraving This kind of finishing is an almost extinct craft that earned local watches considerable fame from the 18th century onwards and spread the appeal of their timepieces as far afield as China. This distinctive expertise is distinguished by its raised motifs: the engraver does not sculpt and engrave the motif he wishes to highlight, but instead “spares it” by removing the material surrounding it. Fleurisanne engraving thus exquisitely highlights motifs by making them literally stand out. This extremely difficult craft calls for a great deal of time as well as absolute mastery. 267 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 267 20.09.11 11:07 ANNEXES Fleuritest Machine that tests the operation of a watch over a 24-hour period by recreating the movements of a nycthemeral cycle, alternating between active, extremely active phases (fitness, etc.) and calmer ones. The variations in rate are analysed by means of an image capture system using digital cameras. This fully computerised machine observes the time as the future owner will do, but in an extremely precise way. Flyback A function of particular use to pilots by which the chronograph hand can be reset to zero and immediately started again by pressing once on the pushpiece. The operation of stopping, returning to zero and restarting the hand in three separate movements would indeed be too time-consuming at high speed. Frequency The number of oscillations per second, measured in Hertz. The balance makes a to-and-fro movement at a given frequency. The higher the frequency, the more accurate the watch. Folding clasp An articulated buckle that unfolds when opened. Should the buckle accidentally come open, it will still hold the strap sufficiently in place to prevent the watch from slipping off the wrist. Gear train A set of wheels and pinions whereby the movement of one sets all the others in motion. There are different types of gear train e.g. winding gears, strike-train, etc. German or nickel silver A silver-white alloy of copper, nickel and zinc developed in France circa 1820 by Maillot and Chorier from whom it takes its French name, maillechort. 268 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 268 20.09.11 11:07 GMT Abbreviation of Greenwich Mean Time. To standardise time in all countries, the earth has been divided since the 1884 International Meridian Conference in Washington into 24 time zones, the first being the Greenwich meridian, considered as the prime or 0 meridian. All points of the same time zone have the same legal time. In watchmaking, GMT means a watch that also shows the time in another time zone. Hammer A metal part that strikes gongs, causing them to vibrate and produce sound. Hand-wound Describes a movement that is wound by hand using the winding crown. Index A device for adjusting a watch’s rate by increasing or reducing the effective length of the balance spring. The index is a steel lever, the shorter end of which carries the curb pins which embrace the spring, and the longer end of which passes over a scale marked in French A and R (avance and retard) or in English F and S (fast and slow). The index is friction-fitted on the balance’s endpiece. The watch is regulated by moving the index forwards; the result of this can be gauged from the graduations on the balance-cock. Leap year Introduced by Julius Caesar in 45 BC as part of the Julian calendar, the leap year was already found in certain Egyptian and Babylonian calendars. It has 366 days and generally occurs every four years in order to compensate for the fact that the civil year progressively lags behind the solar year. Lever Part of a watch or clock escapement, made in steel or brass. The lever, whose form suggests a ship’s anchor, has a dual function: it transmits energy from the spring via the wheels to the balance in order to maintain its oscillations. It also controls the movement of the wound gears. 269 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 269 20.09.11 11:07 ANNEXES L.U.C Quattro Exclusive Chopard technology ensuring a power reserve of 9 days (7 for the L.U.C 150 "All-in-One" model) thanks to its four barrels (two sets of two stacked barrels). Mainplate The plate which bears the various movement parts and in particular the bridges. The dial is usually affixed to the bottom side of the plate. The plate is pierced with holes for the screws and the wheel arbors and hollowed with recesses for the jewels in which the pivots of the movement wheels will turn. Manufacture The Swiss watch industry uses this term to differentiate between a company that manufactures a watch almost in its entirety as opposed to finishing workshops which only assemble and time the watch, and fit the hands and movement. Micron A metric unit of length equal to one thousandth of a millimetre or one millionth of a metre. The watch industry often expresses tolerances in microns. Milling Removing material using a milling-cutter. Moon phases A mechanism and display representing the different phases of the moon. A complete lunation takes 29 days, 12 hours, 44 minutes and 2.8 seconds and is divided into four phases. These are new moon, first quarter, full moon, last quarter. Oscillating weight (micro-rotor) In a self-winding movement, a heavy metal disc that turns freely in both directions to wind the mainspring. 270 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 270 20.09.11 11:07 Perpetual calendar A watch with a perpetual calendar automatically takes the number of days in the month into account: 30 or 31 and the 28 or 29 days of February for ordinary and leap years. Phillips terminal curve Shape given to one end of the balance-spring which is incurved in order to improve isochronism, invented by Arnold, Breguet and perfected by Phillips and others, hence often referred to as a "Phillips curve" or a "Breguet overcoil". Pin buckle An articulated metal catch that is inserted in a hole in the leather strap then secured by the buckle. The majority of belts fasten this way. Poinçon de Genève cf page 158 Polishing To give a smooth and shiny finish. Power reserve The time the watch will continue to function before the mainspring must be wound. PVD Physical vapour deposition, a technique for coating metal. Quartz Silicon dioxide. Also called rock crystal. Quartz has the specific property of vibrating at a very high frequency (32 MHz) placed under electric current. Under certain conditions, it imparts its own vibration frequency to the circuit. This property has been used in electronic watches since the 1970s. 27 1 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 271 20.09.11 11:07 ANNEXES Rubies ( jewels) A very hard red stone that is a type of corundum (aluminium oxide). Ruby is especially suited to making bearings ( jewels) for the watch’s different moving parts and the organs of the escapement, thereby reducing friction to a minimum. Drilled rubies were used for the first time by Nicolas Facio de Duillier in 1704. Watches today use synthetic rubies known as jewels. As a general rule, a simple mechanical watch, i.e. one that indicates hours, minutes and seconds, should have at least fifteen jewels at the points most exposed to friction-induced wear. Self-winding Describes a mechanism that winds the mainspring by using the movement of the arm to cause a rotor to rotate and which, via specific gears, winds the mainspring. Silent block Part made of a supple material serving to absorb shocks and vibrations between mechanical organs and the structure bearing them. The L.U.C 04.01-L (L.U.C 1TRM) movement is mounted on silent blocks in the L.U.C Engine One Tourbillon model. Split-seconds (chronograph) Chronograph with two hands. The split-seconds chronograph is used to time different events that begin but do not end together (such as a sports event with several competitors). When activated, the chronograph seconds hand and the split-seconds hand are superimposed. Pressing the dedicated split-seconds pusher stops it, while the chronograph hand continues running. After reading off the time, a second press on the split-seconds pusher releases the split-seconds hand, enabling it to instantly catch up with the chronograph hand which is still running, and thus to be synchronised with the latter once more. Spring The source of mechanical energy in a watch. A strip of tempered blued steel or a special steel alloy, coiled inside the barrel. 272 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 272 20.09.11 11:07 Striking mechanism An acoustic device that automatically or on demand indicates the hour, and possibly quarter-hour and minutes, or sounds at a pre-set time. A metal part called a hammer strikes small gong-rings in order to make them vibrate and produce sounds. Sunray or sunburst brushing A pattern of imperceptible lines, like the sun’s rays, intersecting at the same central point. It is created using a brush, usually with metal filaments. Tachometer scale In watchmaking, a chronograph or sports counter with a scale for reading speed in kilometres per hour (kph) or another unit. Tourbillon A system devised and patented by Abraham-Louis Breguet in 1801 to compensate for errors of rate caused by the Earth’s gravitational force in upright positions. The escapement is mounted in a revolving carriage with the regulating organ (balance) at the centre. The escape-wheel pinion turns about the fixed fourth wheel. The carriage generally revolves once a minute and, in doing so, compensates for errors of rate caused by the vertical position in which pocket watches spend most of their time. This delicate and complex structure is one of watchmaking’s most ingenious mechanisms. Tourbillon carriage Rotating frame that carries the escapement and the balance. Trimming Removing burrs. 273 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 273 20.09.11 11:07 ANNEXES Variner® Balance The Variner® (variable inertia) balance, an exclusive Chopard Manufacture signature feature, affords the possibility of adjusting inertia variations, thus ensuring a more stable going rate of the movement. The Variner® balance has four spokes and is equipped with four small inertia-blocks enabling adjustment of its oscillation frequency. Modifying the position of the inertia blocks results in a displacement of mass which in turn leads to a variation in the moment of inertia of the balance, causing the watch to gain or lose. Since the inertia blocks are entirely sunk into the rim or felly of the Variner balance, they offer the advantage of not creating any aerodynamic disturbance during the oscillating motion, thereby contributing to enhanced stability of rate. The balance spring with Phillips terminal curve ensures that the centre of gravity of the regulating organ remains more constantly centred on its pivotal point during its oscillations. Associating the Variner® balance with a balance spring with Phillips terminal curve and a tourbillon ensures the best possible regulating performances. Water resistance A watch’s water resistance is measured in bars (a unit of pressure where 1 bar equals 1 atmosphere or atm). Manufacturers generally indicate this water resistance in metres (m), feet (ft), or atmospheres (atm). A watch that is described as water-resistant, with or without an additional indication of overpressure, must comply with the criteria and have successfully passed the tests set out in the NIHS 92-10 (equivalent to ISO-2281 international standard). These watches are destined for ordinary everyday use, including periods of immersion in water such as leisure swimming. They can be used in conditions of changing air pressure, water pressure or temperature. Nonetheless, whether or not there is an individual overpressure indication, they are not intended for scuba diving. 274 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 274 20.09.11 11:07 Source: partly derived from the Glossary of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie www.hautehorlogerie.org Chopard sincerely thanks the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie (FHH) for making available its watchmaking glossary, an acknowledged reference within the industry. 275 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 275 20.09.11 11:07 CHOPARD BOUTIQUES WORLDWIDE ABU DHABI · ALMATY · AMMAN · AMSTERDAM · ARUBA · ASTANA · ATHENS · BADEN BADEN · BAHRAIN · BAKU · BAL HARBOUR · BANGKOK · BANGKOK AIRPORT · BARCELONA · BEIRUT · BERLIN · BEVERLY HILLS · BOLOGNA · BOMBAY · BUSAN · CANNES · CASABLANCA · COLOGNE · COSTA MESA · DALIAN · DJEDDAH · DOHA · DUBAI · ELOUNDA BEACH · FLORENCE · FUKUOKA · GENEVA · GENEVA AIRPORT · GSTAAD · GUANGZHOU · HAMBURG · HANGZHOU · HANOVER · HOHHOT · HONG KONG · ISTANBUL · JEJU · KAOHSIUNG · KIEV · KOBE · KUALA LUMPUR · KUWAIT CITY · LAS VEGAS · CAIRO · CAPE TOWN · LONDON · LOS CABOS · MACAO · MADRID · MANILA · MARBELLA · MARRAKECH · MARSEILLE · MAURITIUS · MEXICO CITY · MILAN · MONTE CARLO · MOSCOW · MUNICH · MYKONOS · NANJING · NASSAU · NEW DELHI · NEW YORK · ODESSA · OSAKA · PARIS · PALM BEACH · BEIJING · BEIJING AIRPORT · PORTO CERVO · QUEEN MARY II · RIYAD · ROME · ST. BARTHELEMY · ST. MORITZ · SAN JUAN · SENTOSA ISLAND · SEOUL · SHANGHAI · SHENYANG · SHENZHEN · SINGAPORE · SINGAPORE AIRPORT CHANGI T3 · SOFIA · SYLT · TAIPEH · TOKYO · VENICE · VIENNA · WENZHOU · WUXI · ZURICH · ZURICH AIRPORT The trademarks, the corporate names, as well as all the designs of Chopard watch, jewellery and accessory models are the exclusive property of Chopard. Any imitations and counterfeits will be prosecuted. The creations in this document are not reproduced to exact size. In the same way, the colours and the sizes may differ slightly from the original and the carat weight of the stones can vary. Published by Chopard & Cie SA, Geneva, Switzerland, www.chopard.com Concept & Design latoutepetiteagence, Paris, France, www.latoutepetiteagence.com GENTS CATALOGUE N°510 - 94104-0504 © LE PETIT-FILS DE L.U. CHOPARD & CIE SA 8, RUE DE VEYROT - 1217 MEYRIN 2 - GENEVA - SWITZERLAND TEL +41 22 719 31 31 - FAX +41 22 719 31 35 WWW.CHOPARD.COM Printed on FSC paper by NAVA Milano, Spa, Italy, 2011 276 Chopard_Cat_Homme_2011_RS_EU.indd 276 20.09.11 11:07 www.chopard.com Gents Catalogue N° 510 - 94104-0504