Monaco has long been associated with glamour, glitz and high-speed motor racing, as is quite natural for the home of one of the most prestigious automobile races in the world. Unlike many other Formula One races, it is held not on a dedicated track, but on the streets of Monaco itself, with many tight corners, elevation changes and a tunnel making it an exceptionally challenging – and dangerous – course.
Since 1997, the Grand Prix de Monaco has been accompanied every year by an even more arduous race, the Grand Prix de Monaco Historique, which challenges drivers to complete this exceptionally demanding course in the racing vehicles of yesteryear.
These vehicles are separated into four categories; from the pre-war “Voiturettes” and Grand-Prix cars to the classic racers of the 1970s. Each provides a unique challenge to the driver, with the lack of power steering resulting in a physical test to match the mental trial that this course provides. There are challenges for the machines too; the gearboxes of the time were more fragile than they are today, and so they come under constant pressure from the drivers.
The fact that these racing machines are still able to take the course at extreme speeds – at some risk to the drivers – makes them an extraordinary testament to their engineers.
Chopard, official timekeeper of the Grand Prix de Monaco Historique since 2002, have chosen to celebrate the fine engineering and mechanical excellence of these historic racing vehicles with a collection of exceptional chronographs. Prime amongst the Chopard Grand Prix de Monaco Historique range is the Chopard Monaco Historique in titanium and 18ct rose gold; a timepiece that you may have recently seen highlighted upon our social media channels, and one that definitely merits a second glance.
Every feature of this exceptional timepiece has been designed with an eye firmly upon the fine details of the single-seater racing cars of the 1970’s. From the exquisitely detailed chronographic pushers which echo automobile components, to the typical classic-racing hour markers and dial, every element is designed to recall the speed and motion of the motor race.
The elegant snailed grey dial is perfectly complemented by a rose gold bezel and crown, whilst the stainless steel case back provides a contrasting touch when set against the titanium case. The case back is also stamped with the logo of the Monaco Automobile Club, while the dial is protected by a glare-proof, scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, enabling the wearer to see the details clearly – even at over 140mph! The watch is then finished with a black calfskin Barenia leather strap boasting a folding clasp for a secure fit.
Internally, this excellent wristwatch features a self-winding mechanical movement, chronometer-certified by the COSC, with a power reserve of 46 hours and a frequency of 28,800/h, so it really does offer the same high standard of performance which is expected of the drivers at the Grand Prix de Monaco Historique event.
With its exquisite detailing and materials that echo the glamour and prestige expected of Monaco, this Chopard Monaco Historique is the ideal dress watch for any racing aficionado, and is available now from Banks Lyon for £7,480. Additionally, it can also be purchased on 0% finance with a 20% deposit and 36 monthly payments of £166.22. With the fine heritage of Chopard and the glamorous racing connection, this is bound to be a popular timepiece which attracts a great deal of attention.
For more information about the Chopard Monaco Historique, or indeed to learn more about any of our other fine Chopard watches, don’t hesitate to contact us on 01524 38 48 58 or by email to [email protected].
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