Chopard

The XP case remains compelling to me, quite thin with subtle vertical brushing on the sides. The movement is the L.U.C calibre 96.41L, with no seconds displayed for optimal dial viewing. And what a dial it is. Its character reveals itself most directly in natural light at varying angles. It delivers blinding flashes of gold in some angles, and an almost ethereal / shadowy (floating world, indeed) effect at other angles. Inspired by Hokusai's Tago Bay (From the series of Thirty-six Views of Mt Fuji), it depicts Mt. Fuji in the distance with daily life carrying on in the foreground. 

For anyone less familiar with urushi and maki-e, it is created using lacquer derived from the sap of a tree (Toxicodendron vernicifluum) in varying layers, each requiring curing. Mineral pigments can be included, and the use of gold or other metal powders is used to create depth and light effects. The prominent use of blue here is apt, as Prussian blue and western perspective were being introduced by artists and printers at the time this work was produced. I hasten to add that I am by no means an expert on these things, so more knowledge is welcome.

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