Chopard L.U.C. Micro-Rotor Movements

CaliforniaJed · 2013-08-31T11:55:32Z

Explore the elegance of micro-rotor movements with CaliforniaJed's Chopard L.U.C. collection and community favorites from Patek Philippe, Universal Geneve, and Breitling.

CaliforniaJed

WPS member · Horological Meandering forum

38 replies10807 views0 photos

CaliforniaJed's exploration of micro-rotor movements highlights a fascinating aspect of horological design, showcasing two Chopard L.U.C. models from his personal collection. His enthusiasm for these compact yet powerful movements invites the WatchProSite community to share their own prized micro-rotor timepieces and insights. This discussion underscores the enduring appeal and technical elegance of micro-rotor calibers across various brands and eras.

Well, okay, not madness, but my collection now includes two -- both from Chopard, both L.U.C. One is the 16/1860, with the cal. 1.96 Geneva Seal movement, the other the Tech QF, with the cal. 9.96 movement that carries the Qualite Fleurier certification. Here they are together, served on a platter!

Here's the 1.96:

And the 9.96:

I've begun to fall for these micro movements in a big way! If I commit to another it will most certainly be another L.U.C, as I am now a complete and unequivocal fan, though I am in a love affair with the Laurent Ferrier Galet Micro-Rotor as well! And of course, there's more than one Patek micro-rotor I wouldn't kick out of bed. Then there are the vintage Polerouters from Universal Geneve. What can I say -- I guess it IS madness.

How about you? Let's see your favorites from your collection, or that you would like to own.

Best,

CaliforniaJed

Key Points from the Discussion

The Caliber 11, the first version of the Breitling/Heuer/Buren Chrono-Matic, was launched in March 1969, combining a Buren micro-rotor base with a Dubois-Depraz chronograph module. The Caliber 12, released shortly after, featured a higher beat rate and gilded finish, while Caliber 14 added a GMT complication.
Universal Geneve Polerouters and Breitling Chrono-Matics (Cal. 11, 12, 14) are notable examples of micro-rotor watches, with the Polerouter's Genta design enduring despite Universal Geneve losing the patent war.
Buren is recognized as the originator of the micro-rotor movement, with Hamilton quickly following suit.
Patek Philippe's Caliber 240, found in models like the Ref. 5110, is another highly regarded micro-rotor movement, praised for its finishing.
The Patek Philippe Ref. 3940R, a perpetual calendar, also features a micro-rotor movement, demonstrating its application in complex timepieces.
The Chopard L.U.C. movements, particularly the Cal. 1.96 with Geneva Seal and Cal. 9.96 with Qualite Fleurier certification, are highlighted for their exceptional finishing and quality.

The Discussion

nilomis

Aug 31, 2013

It's far from madness. Those movements are gorgeous! The 1.96 is to die for. You are correct. You must get a Universal and then a Caliber 11/12 to continue your micro rotor quest. Cheers, Nilo

foversta

Aug 31, 2013

nice topic by the way! Fx

CaliforniaJed

Aug 31, 2013

when it is a Patek (5131?). Beautiful on both sides. Thanks for posting. Best, CaliforniaJed

foversta

Aug 31, 2013

The 5131 is this one! ;) Fx

CaliforniaJed

Aug 31, 2013

Help me -- Caliber 12 in the Chronomatic movement? Best, CaliforniaJed

mell0822

Aug 31, 2013

Thought the musical & the watch paired quite nicely :) Melvin the micro rotor the fishes the musical & a great one it is

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