Chopard Happy Sport Square Ladies Watch 278505-2001

The variations in the Chopard collection are so subtle as to be barely perceptible to newcomers. In the short term, they are a token of consistency; and over the long-term, of an authentic vision based on gently evolving the collections so as to bring them ever closer to the ultimate goal. And what might that be? To have an ever-greater proportion of in-house movements and a range of models positioned at the very peak of the discipline.

Fine horological mechanisms
In 2015, this approach will be conveyed through both sports-oriented and models. On the sporting side, the Mille Miglia previously seen in a GTXL version is now replaced by a GTS version standing for Gran Turismo Sport. The model will come in three different interpretations: an Automatic (43 mm, 60-hour power reserve), a Power Control version (43 mm, 60-hour power reserve displayed at 9 o'clock) driven by a COSC-certified movement supplied by Fleurier Ebauches (Chopard group), as well as a 44 mm chronograph available in steel or gold with a rubber strap or steel bracelet.

On the side of the range, a new version of the L.U.C 1963 is being introduced, this time equipped with a tourbillon. Whereas the two previous versions were of the three-hand or chronograph variety, this new tourbillon version features the first ever Grand Feu enamel dial in this Chopard collection.

This distinctive technical feature led the brand to develop a new movement, since the thicker enamelled dial implied the need for a slimmer calibre in order to maintain a moderate overall thickness. This L.U.C 1963 Tourbillon boasts an exceptional nine-day power reserve delivered by Quattro technology. Attentive observers will also note that the tourbillon is held at two attachment points instead of four. This model finely crafted in the traditional manner will feature the 19^th interpretation of the tourbillon movement and is to be issued in a 100-piece limited run among the 4,500 L.U.C watches that the Manufacture produces each year.

Sustainable watchmaking
The Green Carpet Challenge initiative was launched in 2013 but it was at Baselworld 2014 that the first L.U.C Tourbillon QF "Fairmined" made of sustainable gold was introduced.

Throughout the year, this model have been favourably received by collectors and now, having produced 25 examples of this first watch, Chopard is issuing a new larger 250-piece edition of the L.U.C XPS Fairmined.

The L.U.C in several alluring guises
As part of its Baselworld preview, Chopard had unveiled a 43 mm L.U.C Regulator model based on a 2006 movement while featuring an updated aesthetic. Its broad dial displays the hours at 3 o'clock, seconds at 6 o'clock, GMT at 9 o'clock, power reserve at 12 o'clock and the date between 4 and 5 o'clock. This doubly certified (COSC and Poinçon de Geneve) timepiece comes with an exceptional nine-day power reserve, once again guaranteed by the Quattro technology developed by Chopard and based on four series-coupled barrels.

It is now joined by another L.U.C Quattro three-hand platinum version, appearing with its first ever grey blue dial. A second version will feature a pink gold case framing a sunburst satin-brushed chocolate brown dial.

Happy ladies
As far as ladies' watches are concerned, the Happy collection is once again in the spotlight. Whereas the Happy Sport used to be exclusively quartz-driven, Chopard now also offers it in a version equipped with a self-winding movement and featuring a choice of cases ranging from a classic non-gemset finish to an entirely diamond-paved riviere model framing a mother-of-pearl dial.

The Happy Fish strikes a far more playful note while showcasing another first: its moving diamonds are placed on a fish-shaped LumiNova base enabling the dial to also shine at night. The idea is both original and consistent with the spirit of this collection that has become a must-have in the world of creative feminine watchmaking.