We’re now some way through looking at the many brand specific collections that were unveiled at Baselworld 2014, but there are still many important developments to look at. The focus of this post will be a couple of the especially prominent watches that were released by Chopard, and it is always prudent to expect something a little different from this esteemed horological name. Possessing a joint mastery over the creation of both timepieces and fine jewellery, Chopard inevitably manages to conjure up something with admirable panache, and it was also a real pleasure to see them taking their ‘fairmined gold’ project to the next level at this year’s fair.
A New Collection: the Grand Prix de Monaco Historique
A new collection is always a significant addition to the portfolio of any watchmaking brand name, and Chopard elected to do just that at Baselworld 2014. The vibrant Grand Prix de Monaco Historique family is intended to represent an act of homage to the vintage Formula 1 racing event – a particular area of passion for Chopard, and one where they have served as the timekeeper for more than 12 years – and this dynamic assemblage certainly doesn’t disappoint even when compared to its inspiration. Chopard has taken a great deal of care to enhance the ergonomic appeal of this range, and subtle features like grooving have been added to echo the markings that denote the turns in a race-track. Similarly, the hour marker ring mirrors the form of a brake disc, and even the yellow colouration has been especially selected due to its significance within the Monaco classic race (namely to warn a driver when they are leaving a tunnel at dangerous speeds). Drawing further stimulation from the engineering aptitude within racing cars, the Chopard Grand Prix de Monaco Historique collection upholds the same principles of extreme efficiency, and the movements used within each timepiece are especially chosen for their endurance and precision to this end.
At Banks Lyon, we are pleased to be able to bring you three watches from the new Grand Prix de Monaco family. The Chopard Grand Prix de Monaco titanium and steel watch is the first of these, although it is also joined by the Chopard Monaco Historique Power Control watch and the Chopard Grand Prix de Monaco Historique watch; a variation with chronographic capabilities. We are pleased to take enquiries about any of these timepieces, so don’t hesitate to register your interest.
A New Direction: the World’s First Fairmined Gold Watch
We’ve previously followed Chopard’s exploits into the world of fairmined gold with great curiosity here on our blog, but up until now this initiative was totally confined to a few selected jewellery pieces. However, Chopard has now elevated this sterling project to an entirely different level, as they have actually created a new watch from this substance. Unveiled at Baselworld, the timepiece is an L.U.C. Tourbillon, and the caseback, watch case and bezel are all fashioned from fairmined gold that has been sourced from South Africa. Chopard is proving to be one of the true pioneers in the area of extracting gold responsibly, and each fairmined L.U.C. is being rigidly certified to confirm that the mineral was mined sustainably, and also that the miners themselves received proper payment.
Typically, Chopard has also taken the opportunity to showcase some truly breathtaking design features, and so the L.U.C. in question subtly alternates between satin and polished finishes, and the fact that it contains a tourbillion movement should readily suggest its qualities of performance in the arena of precision timekeeping. The movement is fully certified as a chronometer, and also contains a frankly staggering power reserve of nine days, so both ethically minded forethought and technological expertise have been melded into a single glorious form. Sporting a hand-sewn alligator leather strap, only 25 of these historic chronometers are being produced, and it will be thoroughly fascinating to see where Chopard’s continuing ‘journey’ in this area leads them in the future.
Chopard’s Baselworld assortment was delightfully eclectic, and as we have not had space to mention nearly enough of their developments in this one post, we look forward to bringing you more details about their releases in the coming weeks. In the meantime, you can view a stunning range of Chopard watches here at Banks Lyon, including many Chopard L.U.C. watches that belong to the same family as the ground-breaking new fairmined timepiece. We’re always pleased to hear from you, no matter what your enquiry might be, so don’t hesitate to call us on 01524 38 48 58 if you have any questions.
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