Aural pleasure
The L.U.C Full Strike, Chopard’s first ever minute repeater, debuted in 2016, one of the special pieces created to celebrate L.U.C’s 20th anniversary. It would go on to win Aiguille d’Or (Best in Show) at last year’s Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève.
The chiming watch first appeared in ethically sourced Fairmined 18k rose gold case; this time around, it is crafted in Fairmined white gold. One of its most unique features is the sapphire gongs, machined from the same block of sapphire that is also used for the protective glass of the dial. A pusher on the crown activates the minute repeater.
Sapphire, as it turns out, proves to be strong enough to withstand the impact of steel hammers. More importantly, it doesn’t just act as a sound generator but also as an amplifier, promising a more full-bodied and crystal clear acoustic.
Coaxially positioned rachet-wheels also ensure consistency in sound intensity. When it is chiming, the crown is disconnected from the movement, an additional security measure that prevents accidental damage. There are two barrels for a total power reserve of 60 hours. One of the barrels is dedicated to the chiming mechanism and it comes with its own indicator in blue at ‘2’ to inform the wearer how many more chimes it has left in its reserve.
Design-wise, the open dial gives the watch a striking appearance. The case’s white gold is also guaranteed to maintain its luxurious sheen thanks to high palladium content in its alloy. The hand-sewn, plant-dyed alligator strap is double-sided to keep the overall high quality look.
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