The Chopard Superfast watch is in the running

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 oftenfight 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!