Following on the heels of Bell & Ross, Ulysse Nardin and Vacheron Constantin, luxury watchmaker Chopard has unveiled its timepiece for the 2013 edition of Only Watch. The biennial charity watch auction raises funds for research on Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
A close up look at the one-of-a-kind timepiece Chopard has created for Only Watch 2013...
The timepiece which Chopard has created for Only Watch is called a unique L.U.C Tourbillon model featuring movement bridges adorned with relief or “filet” engravings. Also known as Fleurisanne engraving, this traditional skill is typical of the Neuchâtel village of Fleurier. This highly distinctive and time-consuming art consists of relief-engraving decorative techniques on metal parts, generally gold movement bridges. Its specific nature stems from the fact that it does not involve engraving a motif as such but rather sculpting or ‘sparing’ it by hollowing out the material around it so as to make it stand out.
The L.U.C Tourbillon begins with a 43 mm-diameter titanium case with contrasting polished and brushed surfaces. The rhodiumed gold hand-engraved dial bears the coat-of-arms of the Principality of Monaco and an engraving of a DNA molecule, a touching detail to remind the wearer of the cause to which Only Watch is devoted. At its heart is a L.U.C 02.17-L manufacture movement, which is also decorated with a Fleurisanne engraving of a DNA molecule on the bridge side. This one-of-a kind timepiece boasts a 9-day power reserve thanks to Chopard’s patented Quattro® technology and is certified by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC). The L.U.C Tourbillon is completed by a matte black hand-sewn alligator leather strap with a cognac-colored alligator lining.
Photos courtesy Chopard.
