BY HARLAN CHAPMAN-GREEN
Chopard was one of the major maisons at Watches & Wonders Geneva, its booth is more like a mansion really, and it was pretty. That’s fitting, given the calibre (hehe) of watches inside it, here are the highlights from Chopard’s 2024 collection.
Alpine Eagle
There are three notable versions of the Alpine Eagle incoming this year. The one people will have seen the most is the Alpine Eagle 41 XP TT, an ultra-thin partially skeletonised piece with a titanium case. The self-winding calibre L.U.C 96.17-S looks excellent while being (mostly) on display, and contributes to this watch’s profile which is 41.0mm x 3.3mm. $26,500.
For those who have lots of cash and only one dumbbell, Chopard has released the giant Alpine Eagle XL Chrono, which is 44mm x 13.15mm. Presented in solid 18k rose gold with a matching bracelet and a sleek grey dial, this one pulls no punches. It also has 3 patents for its calibre 03.05-C flyback chronograph movement. $73,400.
The last piece is the Alpine Eagle 41 Frozen Summit, a watch which has had its 18k white gold case totally ‘iced out’ by the master gemsetters of Chopard. It also features the calibre L.U.C 96.41-L, but who cares, it’s the diamond case, dial and bracelet that do the talking here. Price on request.
Mille Miglia
For the collection which has brought Chopard the most attention over the last 40 years, the newest piece is the Mille Miglia Classic Chronograph JX7, created in partnership with brand ambassador and racing legend Jacky Ickx. This 250-piece limited edition chronograph piece comes with an elegant blue dial and a blue rubber racing strap, on the back is a print of Jacky’s helmet over the movement. $10,300.
L.U.C
The top level of Chopard’s watchmaking division is the L.U.C range, which channels all of their knowhow to make what are genuinely some of the best watches money can buy. The first piece is the L.U.C XPS Forest Green, which has a 40mm Lucent Steel case which is dressy and classy, but its contrasted by the green dial which to me seems a bit more casual. Inside it is the chronometer-grade calibre L.U.C 96.12-L. The price is $11,800.
The other model of note is the L.U.C Qualité Fleurier, which has passed the most rigorous test in the watchmaking industry. With elegant horn-style lugs, this 39mm dress watch (made of Lucent Steel) is a cut above. The calibre L.U.C 96.09-L is accurate beyond the standard chronometer requirements, ensured by the Qualité Fleurier signature. This is the first time a Qualité Fleurier watch has been in regular production rather than a limited edition. The price is $20,300.
Big names like Chopard release loads of watches every year to satisfy their customers, but we picked a few of our favourites, which was your favourite?
