Chopard Superfast Watch Launch Event

Kong · 2012-12-09T09:19:27Z

Chopard Superfast watch launch at Ascari Race Resort. Discover the automotive-inspired design, new Fleurier Ebauches movement, and insights from Jacky Ickx and Ryan Lochte.

Kong

WPS member · Chopard forum

7 replies2066 views16 photos

Kong reports on the Chopard Superfast watch unveiling at the Ascari Race Resort, an event that seamlessly blended high horology with the thrill of motorsport. This article highlights the watch's automotive-inspired design, its new Fleurier Ebauches movement, and the presence of racing legend Jacky Ickx and Olympic swimmer Ryan Lochte. It provides an inside look at Chopard's dedication to its Classic Racing collection.

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Marbella, November 22nd 2012 - The Superfast watch was unveiled at the Ascari Race Resort track, in a ceremony graced by the presence of legendary racing driver Jacky Ickx and of swimmer Ryan Lochte, triple Olympic gold medallist and five-time world champion. This sleek, powerful and sporty watch is directly inspired by the automobile world, with its dial and case evoking cooling vents, a bezel resembling vintage compressors, a black rubber-moulded crown – adorned with a racing steering wheel – and pushers, as well as a power-reserve display designed like a petrol gauge.

After a presentation of the watch given by Chopard Co-President, Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, guests enjoyed the opportunity to slip into the shoes of a racing driver and experiencing the unique thrills procured by speed machines hurtling around a dedicated track. Jacky Ickx, six-time winner of “Le Mans 24 Hours” race, had brought two exceptional Porsche 936 Spyder cars with him – one dating from 1977 and the other from 1981. Both have indeed been driven by the champion in the prestigious endurance race. He also gave a breathtaking demonstration in front of the enchanted guests.

Ryan Lochte, the most successful swimmer still active in competitions, had flown in from the United States especially for this event. Passionate about watches and jewellery, which he often designs himself, this exceptional champion stated during the presentation of the timepiece: “As a swimmer, time is… my worst enemy! I often fight to push the limits of human possibility, in order to shave off that extra tenth of a second. Being Superfast is my sole objective in this sport. This Chopard model is thus a perfect match for me in terms of both its name and design. I particularly like watches with a very broad diameter featuring extremely powerful dials and cases. Moreover, since I love speed in all forms, I really appreciate all the automobile-inspired details that make this timepiece truly unique.”

Karl-Friedrich Scheufele also noted that this is the first model in the Classic Racing collection to be powered by a Chopard movement from the Fleurier Ebauches workshops, and represents a major step forward towards even greater independence for the Geneva-based firm.

The day concluded with a dinner at the Villa Padierna Hotel in Marbella, to the fabulous sound of the Gypsy Queens, who set the house on fire as usual!

Press Release

Key Points from the Discussion

The author clarifies that Ryan Lochte attended the event as a 'friend of the brand' rather than a formal brand ambassador, but notes that Chopard's messaging for the Superfast line is evolving to emphasize 'Speed' and 'A mindset'.
A contributor inquires about the wearability and long-term design appeal of the DLC Coated Stainless steel split chronograph Superfast model, comparing it to the IWC Top Gun Split Chrono.
The author shares details about the London 2012 Olympic gold medal, which he held, noting its significant weight (375-400g) and composition (92.5% silver, 1.34% gold), adding an interesting anecdote to the event report.
A contributor expresses appreciation for seeing the racing spirit behind Chopard's sports watches, highlighting the brand's consistent theme.

The Discussion

Bill

Dec 9, 2012

Always great to see the racing spirit behind the Chopard sports watches. Thanks Bill

Kong

Dec 9, 2012

A more detailed report will up very soon. Thanks for viewing, Bill. Kong

Bill

Dec 9, 2012

Wow the size of the gold medal. One does not imaging it is so big. Thanks Bill

Kong

Dec 10, 2012

And heavy ... the Olympic Gold Medal. I held in my hand too ... Just goggle, the specifications is : " The London 2012 Olympic medals weigh 375-400g, are 85mm in diameter and 7mm thick. - The gold medal is made up of 92.5% silver and 1.34% gold, with the remainder copper (a minimum of 6g of gold). " Kong

patrick_y

Dec 11, 2012

Looks like a great event with fast cars, fast watches, a fast driver, and a very fast swimmer!

Kong

Dec 11, 2012

Hi Pat I asked if he was attending as a brand ambassador, the reply was not. Just as a friend of the brand. In future, I am not sure. Sort of mixed message that Superfast is under Classic Racing, but the new catalogue and press release has also changed its messaging as well... now it is more like "think Speed" as the title is " Superfast - A mindset". Thanks for viewing, any of the models attracts you? Kong

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