New Release
Emmanuel, known as quattro on WatchProSite, ignites a discussion around the Chopard Mille Miglia Classic Chronograph Zagato 100th Anniversary Edition, reference 168589-3020. His original post, rich with high-quality imagery, invites collectors passionate about automotive-inspired timepieces to share their perspectives. This article synthesizes the community's initial reactions and expert observations on this special edition.
Chopard's Mille Miglia collection represents the Swiss manufacture's deep connection to automotive heritage, specifically the legendary Italian road race that ran from 1927 to 1957. The partnership between Chopard and the Mille Miglia revival began in 1988, establishing one of horology's most enduring motorsport collaborations. This Zagato 100th Anniversary Edition celebrates the centenary of the renowned Italian coachbuilder Zagato, founded in 1919, which became famous for creating lightweight, aerodynamic bodies for racing cars that dominated events like the original Mille Miglia.
The chronograph features a striking burgundy dial that echoes the racing heritage aesthetic, housed in what appears to be a stainless steel case with polished and brushed finishes. The tri-compax subdial layout provides running seconds, 30-minute, and 12-hour totalizers, essential for timing racing intervals. The tachymeter scale on the bezel allows for speed calculations, a practical feature that connects the watch directly to its automotive inspiration. Red accents throughout the design, including the leather strap stitching, reinforce the racing theme while maintaining legibility.
As a limited anniversary edition celebrating Zagato's centenary, this piece targets collectors who appreciate the intersection of automotive and horological craftsmanship. The Mille Miglia series has consistently held strong secondary market values due to Chopard's racing pedigree and the emotional connection enthusiasts have with the historic race. Limited production numbers typical of anniversary editions, combined with the specific Zagato connection, position this chronograph as both a functional sports watch and a collectible piece documenting a significant milestone in automotive design history.
But it suffers from the non-color matched date wheel like most in the series unfortunately 🤷🏻♂️ It would also be a lot nicer if the movement from the Purist 1963 was used, as was done once previously in a MM piece, albeit that would place it much higher price wise…
The movement, as you say, reduces the horological appeal, but improves the price appeal...
Has drastically outstripped the overall rate of inflation, too 😉
Best, Emmanuel
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