Chopard L.U.C.: An Undervalued Horological Powerhouse

ant · 2022-03-31T16:20:26Z

Explore Chopard L.U.C.'s exceptional craftsmanship, from the Full Strike sapphire to the Jumping Hour. Why do these high-horology pieces remain undervalued?

ant

WPS member · Chopard forum

35 replies8720 views11 photos

Ant's passionate exploration of Chopard L.U.C. watches highlights a brand that consistently delivers exceptional horological craftsmanship, often perceived as undervalued by the wider collector community. His firsthand account from a Chopard exhibition, featuring interactions with key figures and detailed observations of their latest innovations, provides a compelling argument for why these timepieces deserve greater recognition. This article synthesizes Ant's initial impressions with community insights, offering a comprehensive look at Chopard L.U.C.'s unique position in the luxury watch market.

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You know? I am biffledinked why there isn't more on Chopard LUC. Their designs are really interesting whilst their quality is equal to the highest available. Considering that their relative pricing is very reasonable.

I rocked up to their stand and almost immediately bumped into KFS (Aiyah!! What a charmer!), we had a pleasant chat. He has that extraordinary gift of making you feel that you are the most important person in the room (which I am most definately not!). He seemed pumped about the latest designs and said that he would join my viewing later. I didn't think he'd actually come because the stand was buzzing with important people, but it had been an honour to talk to him anyway.

Top honours must go to the incredible Full Strike sapphire.

The whole thing is machined from sapphire: the case (!!!!), winder, plates, chiming gongs, etc. A technical tour-du-force. A demonstration of their depth of design and manufacturing skill. At the very bleeding cutting edge

of watch making.

Then, my personal favourite, the Jumping Hour, Grand Feu enamel dial, flawless execution. Perfect on my wrist.

Their interesting new design direction: restraint, class and elegance. Although my crappy pics don't show it, the chapter rings 'float' above the dial. A mesmerizing effect.

It was at roughly this point that KFS joined us. I said that I adored the whole new range and the subtle detailing. We were looking at the new Strike1.

The gongs are now of sapphire and have a beautiful resonant sound, even an old geezer like me could appreciate it.

He got quite enamoured talking about the on button pusher in the crown. Looking at it you can see why, a lovely piece of design and engineering.

Then we moved on to the 1860 series with flying tourbillon and ultra-slim movements. The subtle olive green, mediterranean blue and deep brown. What elegant beautiful watches they are.

Then we chatted for about ten minutes and, of course, he went to speak to sales prospects.

I came out of their stand feeling delighted at what I had see,,, but completely bewildered by the lack of love that they receive from world of watch aficianados at large.

Thanks for reading,,

Regards

Antony

About the Chopard L.U.C Ref. L.U.C1860

The L.U.C 1860 reference is a notable offering within the L.U.C collection, distinguished by its focus on classical watchmaking principles and refined aesthetics. This particular model, introduced at Watches and Wonders 2023, represents a continuation of Chopard's commitment to high horology, emphasizing traditional craftsmanship and a discreet presentation. It is recognized for its balanced proportions and the integration of a finely finished movement, reflecting the brand's in-house manufacturing capabilities.

This reference features a case crafted from Lucent Steel, a proprietary alloy, measuring 36.5 mm in diameter. The watch is powered by the L.U.C 96.01-L automatic movement, which is visible through a sapphire crystal case back. This movement is equipped with a micro-rotor and offers a power reserve of approximately 65 hours. The dial is presented in a salmon color, complemented by a sapphire crystal on the front.

Appealing to collectors who value understated design and mechanical integrity, the L.U.C 1860 fits into the brand's lineup as a dress watch with significant horological merit. Its limited production and specific material choices contribute to its appeal among enthusiasts seeking a watch that combines traditional watchmaking with contemporary material science. The model is a testament to Chopard's ongoing development in its L.U.C range.

Specifications

Caliber: L.U.C 96.01-L

Case: Lucent Steel

Diameter: 36.5mm

Dial: Salmon

Water Resist.: 30m

Crystal: Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

The Chopard L.U.C. 1905 Quattro's workmanship, particularly its 'clarity' in indices, dial, and hands, rivals that of established high-horology brands like Vacheron Constantin, A. Lange & Söhne, and Patek Philippe.
Historically, Chopard has faced skepticism from some collectors, with some even coining derogatory terms, despite the brand's consistent production of high-quality movements and designs, especially within the L.U.C. line.
The sapphire gongs in Chopard's minute repeaters, like the Full Strike, produce a remarkably resonant sound, demonstrating the brand's innovative approach to traditional complications.
The limited visibility and reduced in-person attendance at major watch events, such as Watches & Wonders during the COVID-19 pandemic, made it challenging for moderators and enthusiasts to fully engage with new releases and brand representatives.
The Chopard L.U.C. line, particularly with its new direction focusing on smaller production batches, offers exceptional value and quality that brand snobs might overlook.
The absence of a dedicated Chopard moderator on the forum, following the retirement of MTF, has contributed to a perceived lack of discussion and coverage for the brand within the community.

The Discussion

LiftAngle51

Mar 31, 2022

Jealous

Best Ant, they are jealous. For decades they are jealous, and called Chopard the clochards from Geneva. We know better and love the maison. The gong of the repeaters are sounding terrific. I watched WA who demonstrated the watches. A huge out of reach for me, but it are the pinnacles of Chopard to demonstrate what they can make. With their more upmarket brand Ferdinand Bethoud is a world to win. In my opinion good watches, but too colossal.

ant

Apr 2, 2022

I agree with you

FB.... There might be something that is more to our taste in early autumn,,, nudge/nudge! ATB Antony

doubleup

Mar 31, 2022

If I had endless money I would collect all these sapphire cased pieces. Love them... The pushers are all so cool looking

ant

Apr 2, 2022

As KFS said

....'it is so much more difficult to make it almost counts as a complication. Regards Antony

mdg

Mar 31, 2022

Chopard is killing it lately...

...I've always loved the LUC line, but the new dials are really great.

ant

Apr 2, 2022

Agreed

I think that a golden era has begun. ATB Antony

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Chopard L.U.C.: An Undervalued Horological Powerhouse

About the Chopard L.U.C Ref. L.U.C1860

Specifications

Key Points from the Discussion

Continue the conversation

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