{"lien_WSTV":"","tax_name":"deprecated","tax_rate":20,"id_manufacturer":"0","id_supplier":"0","id_category_default":"451","id_shop_default":"1","manufacturer_name":false,"supplier_name":false,"name":"L.U.C Full Strike Sapphire","description":"<p><strong>L.U.C Full Strike Sapphire<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Five-piece sapphire limited edition<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>A rare crystal instrument<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>To mark the 25th anniversary of its L.U.C collection, Chopard has created a peerless transparent timepiece, as well as revolutionising the minute repeater for the second time in five years. In addition to the gongs of the L.U.C 08.01-L chronometer-certified calibre, the entire case, crown and dial of this new L.U.C Full Strike Sapphire model are cut from blocks of sapphire. Measuring 42.5 mm in diameter and totally transparent, it offers a 360-degree view of a movement with exceptional finishes. This entire horological prodigy bears the Poin\u00e7on de Gen\u00e8ve quality hallmark, a first for a non-metallic timepiece. Endorsed by virtuoso brothers Renaud and Gautier Capu\u00e7on, its acoustic richness achieves an exceptional level of quality, while perfect homogeneity makes it an unparalleled timepiece combining a stunning conceptual challenge with supremely accomplished execution.<\/p>\n<p>With the L.U.C Full Strike Sapphire, the L.U.C collection takes a further step into the crystal age. In 2016, the first L.U.C Full Strike model heralded a new watchmaking paradigm, a novel way of generating and propagating the sound of a minute repeater. By using solid sapphire gongs and having the sapphire crystal serve as a resonator, as well as by making these two components into a single monobloc entity, Chopard Manufacture broke the glass ceiling. The result is incomparable tonal richness and acoustic intensity, qualities that previously earned the first L.U.C Full Strike model in rose gold the ultimate \u201cAiguille d\u2019Or\u201d award at the 2017 Grand Prix d\u2019Horlogerie de Gen\u00e8ve.<\/p>\n<p><strong>A sapphire heart<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The L.U.C Full Strike Sapphire timepiece is the first minute repeater watch whose case is made entirely of corundum crystal, better known as sapphire. By merging container and content, musical expression and transparency, Chopard has created a veritable horological musical instrument. Thanks to the homogeneity of the material \u2013 which is present throughout the sound propagation chain \u2013 this five-piece limited series gets the very best from sapphire.<\/p>\n<p>Above and beyond its aesthetic prowess, the choice of lab-created sapphire is justified by its technical properties: derived from synthetic corundum, this material is one of the most resistant to scratches and has an estimated hardness of nine on the Mohs scale, almost as hard as diamond. Moreover, although producing a sapphire case entails considerable machining difficulties, it has the advantage of remaining unalterable over time.<\/p>\n<p><strong>A sapphire body<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The 42.5 mm diameter case is 11.55 mm thick, with well-balanced proportions identical to previous versions of the L.U.C Full Strike, and which contribute to the characteristic elegance of the L.U.C collection. The bezel, caseband, crown, case-back and rear glass are all made of sapphire crystal. This rare model, whose absolute transparency enables the wearer to become one with the timepiece, has been created by specialised artisans mastering all the requirements of sapphire technology, from powder to finished component. The manufacturing process follows strict sustainable development rules, from the energy consumed in the production of corundum crystal through to transport.<\/p>\n<p>In addition, the dial too is made of sapphire. Its distinctively cut shape enhances the indication elements essential for reading. Absolute transparency can in fact have the effect of blurring the view and Chopard has remedied this by creating a railway-type minutes track engraved on the sapphire crystal and painted. It complements a chapter ring punctuated with rhodium-plated herringbone-shaped applied hour-markers, and black transferred counterparts. The sapphire ring is interrupted by three elements. The first is the off-centre seconds counter. The second is an applied white gold plate bearing the \"L.U.CHOPARD\" logo. The third is the concentric power-reserve indicator in which two hands respectively indicate the energy remaining in the barrel that drives the movement as well as in the other powering the minute repeater.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Innovative heart<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The L.U.C Full Strike Sapphire is the first non-metallic timepiece to bear the prestigious Poin\u00e7on de Gen\u00e8ve quality hallmark, covering both the design and finishing of the movement and the case. In addition, the L.U.C Full Strike Sapphire watch inherits the latest advances with which the L.U.C 08.01-L movement is endowed. Its patented resonant sapphire structure is complemented by several innovative technical systems, four of which are patented.<\/p>\n<p>In a minute repeater mechanism, the energy required by the strikework is provided each time the winding lever is activated. Here, the energy comes from a separate, dedicated barrel wound directly by the crown. It enables the L.U.C Full Strike Sapphire to chime the most complex and energy-intensive time of day (or night) \u2013 namely 12 hours and 59 minutes \u2013 up to 12 times. This exceptional autonomy is due to several factors. It benefits from the contribution of a patented clutch-lever mechanism that ensures that the strikework going train is blocked, to avoid losing power reserve during the information capture that controls the minute repeater.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Innovative body<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>This autonomy is moreover also the result of Chopard Manufacture's experience in multiple barrels. The founding movement of the L.U.C collection \u2013 L.U.C Calibre 96.01-L launched 25 years ago \u2013 in fact already featured Chopard Twin technology, whose two superimposed barrels deliver long-lasting and reliable force. Since it has an autonomous energy source, the strikework systematically respects the defined rhythm, whatever the time that is chimed and however many times it chimes.<\/p>\n<p>Keen to preserve the user-friendliness of the minute repeater and to make its operation as secure as possible, Chopard Manufacture has introduced a number of innovative systems. Thus, if the barrel no longer has sufficient force to power the minute repeater, a safety mechanism blocks its release. In addition, Chopard has filed a patent for a new strikework-activation device. As soon as it is activated, the pusher is disengaged, thereby making it impossible to disturb the running of the minute repeater or to damage it.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Orchestrated talents<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>So as to optimise and perpetuate the acoustic richness of the monobloc sapphire crystal\/gong system derived from the L.U.C Full Strike, Karl-Friedrich Scheufele has initiated a new approach. In 2018, while attending a concert given by violinist Renaud Capu\u00e7on, he realised that a minute repeater watch should be designed as a musical instrument and should deliver something more \u2013 namely emotion.<\/p>\n<p>Renaud Capu\u00e7on is a virtuoso of his time as well as a specialist in acoustics and sound \u2013 just like his brother, cellist Gautier Capu\u00e7on. Both play instruments that are several hundred years old and which embody a perfection and uniqueness that have stood the test of time. Karl-Friedrich Scheufele decided to call upon the two soloists to join forces with Professor Romain Boulandet \u2013 head of the Applied Acoustics Laboratory at Geneva\u2019s HEPIA engineering school \u2013 whose work in an anechoic chamber perfectly isolated from noise pollution has demonstrated that the sound of Chopard's minute repeater is powerful, harmonious and crystal clear.<\/p>\n<p>Together, these experts have combined their skill and knowledge to conduct an analysis that goes beyond the purely measurable criteria of acoustics to enter another dimension: that of sound as perceived by the listener. The L.U.C Full Strike Sapphire timepiece benefits from their analysis and their contribution, both scientific and emotional. Thanks to Chopard's unalterable sapphire gongs, the sound of the L.U.C Full Strike Sapphire is unchanging, stemming from the orchestration of complementary talents: Karl-Friedrich Scheufele for watchmaking precision; Renaud and Gautier Capu\u00e7on for artistic and emotional endorsement; and Romain Boulandet for scientific expertise.<\/p>\n<p><strong>A blend of heritage and modernity: 25 years of the L.U.C collection<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Since 1996, Chopard Manufacture has been reflecting the inspired vision of the Maison\u2019s Co-President Karl-Friedrich Scheufele. Twenty-five years after presenting its first movement, the Manufacture has acquired a degree of maturity enabling it to provide a range encompassing the entire spectrum of horological complications \u2013 all in-house crafted through an alliance of tradition and innovation.<\/p>\n<p>From movement development to adjustment and quality control, along with finished product design, the stamping and machining of cases as well as movement components, engraving and traditional hand-crafted finishes, gemsetting, surface treatments, polishing and assembly: its workshops in Geneva and Fleurier enable Chopard to master the entire production process involved in each creation composing the L.U.C collection. The work of experienced artisans, these timepieces with their simple and pure design express a high degree of mechanical sophistication.\u00a0<\/p>","description_short":"","quantity":0,"minimal_quantity":"0","available_now":"","available_later":"","price":380416.666,"specificPrice":false,"additional_shipping_cost":"0.00","wholesale_price":"0.000000","on_sale":"0","online_only":"0","unity":"","unit_price":0,"unit_price_ratio":"0.000000","ecotax":"0.000000","reference":"168604-9001","supplier_reference":"","location":"","width":"0.000000","height":"0.000000","depth":"0.000000","weight":"0.000000","ean13":"","upc":"","link_rewrite":"luc-full-strike-sapphire","meta_description":"L.U.C Full Strike Sapphire Five-piece sapphire limited edition A rare crystal instrument To mark the 25th anniversary of its L.U.C collection, Chopard has cr...","meta_keywords":"","meta_title":"Watch Chopard L.U.C Full Strike Sapphire | L.U.C 168604-9001 Transparent Sapphire - Strap Alligator Leather","quantity_discount":"0","customizable":"0","new":false,"uploadable_files":"0","text_fields":"0","active":"1","redirect_type":"","id_product_redirected":"0","available_for_order":"0","available_date":"0000-00-00","condition":"new","show_price":"1","indexed":"1","visibility":"both","date_add":"2022-05-11 16:07:10","date_upd":"2022-05-12 15:18:59","tags":false,"base_price":"380416.666000","id_tax_rules_group":"1","id_color_default":0,"advanced_stock_management":"0","out_of_stock":2,"depends_on_stock":false,"isFullyLoaded":true,"cache_is_pack":"0","cache_has_attachments":"1","is_virtual":"0","id_pack_product_attribute":null,"cache_default_attribute":"0","category":"luc","pack_stock_type":"0","id":7904,"id_shop_list":null,"force_id":false,"customization_required":false}
{"Compl\u00e9ment":"Transparent Sapphire - Strap Alligator Leather ","Nombre d exemplaire":"5","Sexe":"Homme","Diam\u00e8tre":"42,50 ","Epaisseur":"11,55 ","Types":"Hand-winding","Styles":"Atypical, High Horology","Calibre_autre":"L.U.C 08.01-L","Calibre distinction":"Skeleton, COSC certified, Hallmark of Geneva, C\u00f4tes de Gen\u00e8ve","Calibre distinction_autre":"Balance-spring with Phillips terminal curve","Affichage_autre":"Applied rhodium-plated herringbone-type hour-markers,\r\nApplied rhodium-plated Dauphine hours and minutes hands,\r\nRhodium-plated baton-type small seconds hand,\r\nRhodium-plated baton-type movement power-reserve and strikework power-reserve hands\r\n","Complication":"Stop second mechanism, Small Seconds","Particularit\u00e9 du boitier":"Sapphire caseback, Open caseback, Engraved caseback","Particularit\u00e9 du boitier_autre":"Crown with integrated strikework pusher\r\nin sapphire, with L.U.C logo 8.80 mm,\r\nPolished caseband bezel and case-back,\r\nSapphire crystal with two Chopard-patented integrated monobloc gongs \r\n","Forme":"Round","Cadran":"Sapphire, Open","Index":"Chevrons","Mati\u00e8re du bracelet":"Alligator leather","Fermeture du bracelet":"Folding buckle ","Couleur du bracelet":"Grey","Plus de caract\u00e9ristiques":"<br\/>\r\nMovement <br\/>\r\nMechanical hand-wound L.U.C 08.01-L<br\/>\r\nNumber of components 533<br\/>\r\nTotal diameter\t\t\t37.20 mm<br\/>\r\nThickness 7.97 mm<br\/>\r\nNumber of jewels 63 <br\/>\r\nFrequency 28,800 vph (4 Hz)<br\/>\r\nPower reserve 60 hours<br\/>\r\n<br\/>\r\nMainplate and bridges in untreated nickel silver<br\/>\r\nBridges adorned with C\u00f4tes de Gen\u00e8ve motif<br\/>\r\nMinute repeater<br\/>\r\nChopard-patented monobloc sapphire crystal and gongs<br\/> \r\nChopard-patented variable-inertia balance<br\/>\r\nChopard-patented clutch-lever device serving to block the strikework so as to avoid losing power reserve during information capture<br\/>\r\nChopard-patented dedicated ratchet-driving mechanism serving to avoid pauses during chiming<br\/>\r\nStrikework-activation device serving to act on the pusher whether it is chiming or not, in normal, low, continuous or fast mode (patent pending)<br\/>\r\n<br\/>\r\nFunctions:<br\/>\r\nMinute repeater striking sapphire gongs (Chopard-patented system)<br\/>\r\nCentral display of the hours and minutes<br\/>\r\nSmall seconds display at 6 o\u2019clock<br\/>\r\nConcentric display of the watch and strikework power reserves at 2 o\u2019clock<br\/>\r\n<br\/>\r\nBoitier<br\/>\r\nSaphir transparent<br\/>\r\nCouronne avec poussoir d\u00e9clencheur de sonnerie int\u00e9gr\u00e9, en saphir, avec logo L.U.C 8,80 mm<br\/>\r\n<br\/>\r\nStrap \/ Buckles<br\/>\r\nStrap in hand-sewn grey alligator leather with grey alligator lining<br\/>\r\nFolding clasp in polished and satin-brushed ethical 18-carat white gold <br\/>\r\n<br\/>\r\nNumbered five-piece limited edition\r\n"}
L.U.C Full Strike Sapphire
168604-9001
| Brand : | Chopard |
| Collection : | L.U.C |
| Model : | L.U.C Full Strike Sapphire |
| Reference : | 168604-9001 |
| Complement : | Transparent Sapphire - Strap Alligator Leather |
PDF INDEX CARD
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Brand : Chopard Collection : L.U.C Model : L.U.C Full Strike Sapphire Reference : 168604-9001 Complement : Transparent Sapphire - Strap Alligator Leather List Price : 456 500 € Diameter : 42,50 mm Thickness : 11,55 mm Styles : Atypical High Horology Types : Hand-winding Calibre : L.U.C 08.01-L Calibre distinction : Skeleton COSC certified Hallmark of Geneva Côtes de Genève Balance-spring with Phillips terminal curve Complication : Stop second mechanism Small Seconds Case peculiarity : Sapphire caseback Open caseback Engraved caseback Crown with integrated strikework pusher in sapphire with L.U.C logo 8.80 mm Polished caseband bezel and case-back Sapphire crystal with two Chopard-patented integrated monobloc gongs Shape : Round Dial : Sapphire Open Display : Applied rhodium-plated herringbone-type hour-markers Applied rhodium-plated Dauphine hours and minutes hands Rhodium-plated baton-type small seconds hand Rhodium-plated baton-type movement power-reserve and strikework power-reserve hands Indexes : Chevrons Strap material : Alligator leather Strap color : Grey Strap clasp : Folding buckle + More characteristics :
Movement
Mechanical hand-wound L.U.C 08.01-L
Number of components 533
Total diameter 37.20 mm
Thickness 7.97 mm
Number of jewels 63
Frequency 28,800 vph (4 Hz)
Power reserve 60 hours
Mainplate and bridges in untreated nickel silver
Bridges adorned with Côtes de Genève motif
Minute repeater
Chopard-patented monobloc sapphire crystal and gongs
Chopard-patented variable-inertia balance
Chopard-patented clutch-lever device serving to block the strikework so as to avoid losing power reserve during information capture
Chopard-patented dedicated ratchet-driving mechanism serving to avoid pauses during chiming
Strikework-activation device serving to act on the pusher whether it is chiming or not, in normal, low, continuous or fast mode (patent pending)
Functions:
Minute repeater striking sapphire gongs (Chopard-patented system)
Central display of the hours and minutes
Small seconds display at 6 o’clock
Concentric display of the watch and strikework power reserves at 2 o’clock
Boitier
Saphir transparent
Couronne avec poussoir déclencheur de sonnerie intégré, en saphir, avec logo L.U.C 8,80 mm
Strap / Buckles
Strap in hand-sewn grey alligator leather with grey alligator lining
Folding clasp in polished and satin-brushed ethical 18-carat white gold
Numbered five-piece limited edition
DESCRIPTION
L.U.C Full Strike Sapphire
Five-piece sapphire limited edition
A rare crystal instrument
To mark the 25th anniversary of its L.U.C collection, Chopard has created a peerless transparent timepiece, as well as revolutionising the minute repeater for the second time in five years. In addition to the gongs of the L.U.C 08.01-L chronometer-certified calibre, the entire case, crown and dial of this new L.U.C Full Strike Sapphire model are cut from blocks of sapphire. Measuring 42.5 mm in diameter and totally transparent, it offers a 360-degree view of a movement with exceptional finishes. This entire horological prodigy bears the Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark, a first for a non-metallic timepiece. Endorsed by virtuoso brothers Renaud and Gautier Capuçon, its acoustic richness achieves an exceptional level of quality, while perfect homogeneity makes it an unparalleled timepiece combining a stunning conceptual challenge with supremely accomplished execution.
With the L.U.C Full Strike Sapphire, the L.U.C collection takes a further step into the crystal age. In 2016, the first L.U.C Full Strike model heralded a new watchmaking paradigm, a novel way of generating and propagating the sound of a minute repeater. By using solid sapphire gongs and having the sapphire crystal serve as a resonator, as well as by making these two components into a single monobloc entity, Chopard Manufacture broke the glass ceiling. The result is incomparable tonal richness and acoustic intensity, qualities that previously earned the first L.U.C Full Strike model in rose gold the ultimate “Aiguille d’Or” award at the 2017 Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève.
A sapphire heart
The L.U.C Full Strike Sapphire timepiece is the first minute repeater watch whose case is made entirely of corundum crystal, better known as sapphire. By merging container and content, musical expression and transparency, Chopard has created a veritable horological musical instrument. Thanks to the homogeneity of the material – which is present throughout the sound propagation chain – this five-piece limited series gets the very best from sapphire.
Above and beyond its aesthetic prowess, the choice of lab-created sapphire is justified by its technical properties: derived from synthetic corundum, this material is one of the most resistant to scratches and has an estimated hardness of nine on the Mohs scale, almost as hard as diamond. Moreover, although producing a sapphire case entails considerable machining difficulties, it has the advantage of remaining unalterable over time.
A sapphire body
The 42.5 mm diameter case is 11.55 mm thick, with well-balanced proportions identical to previous versions of the L.U.C Full Strike, and which contribute to the characteristic elegance of the L.U.C collection. The bezel, caseband, crown, case-back and rear glass are all made of sapphire crystal. This rare model, whose absolute transparency enables the wearer to become one with the timepiece, has been created by specialised artisans mastering all the requirements of sapphire technology, from powder to finished component. The manufacturing process follows strict sustainable development rules, from the energy consumed in the production of corundum crystal through to transport.
In addition, the dial too is made of sapphire. Its distinctively cut shape enhances the indication elements essential for reading. Absolute transparency can in fact have the effect of blurring the view and Chopard has remedied this by creating a railway-type minutes track engraved on the sapphire crystal and painted. It complements a chapter ring punctuated with rhodium-plated herringbone-shaped applied hour-markers, and black transferred counterparts. The sapphire ring is interrupted by three elements. The first is the off-centre seconds counter. The second is an applied white gold plate bearing the "L.U.CHOPARD" logo. The third is the concentric power-reserve indicator in which two hands respectively indicate the energy remaining in the barrel that drives the movement as well as in the other powering the minute repeater.
Innovative heart
The L.U.C Full Strike Sapphire is the first non-metallic timepiece to bear the prestigious Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark, covering both the design and finishing of the movement and the case. In addition, the L.U.C Full Strike Sapphire watch inherits the latest advances with which the L.U.C 08.01-L movement is endowed. Its patented resonant sapphire structure is complemented by several innovative technical systems, four of which are patented.
In a minute repeater mechanism, the energy required by the strikework is provided each time the winding lever is activated. Here, the energy comes from a separate, dedicated barrel wound directly by the crown. It enables the L.U.C Full Strike Sapphire to chime the most complex and energy-intensive time of day (or night) – namely 12 hours and 59 minutes – up to 12 times. This exceptional autonomy is due to several factors. It benefits from the contribution of a patented clutch-lever mechanism that ensures that the strikework going train is blocked, to avoid losing power reserve during the information capture that controls the minute repeater.
Innovative body
This autonomy is moreover also the result of Chopard Manufacture's experience in multiple barrels. The founding movement of the L.U.C collection – L.U.C Calibre 96.01-L launched 25 years ago – in fact already featured Chopard Twin technology, whose two superimposed barrels deliver long-lasting and reliable force. Since it has an autonomous energy source, the strikework systematically respects the defined rhythm, whatever the time that is chimed and however many times it chimes.
Keen to preserve the user-friendliness of the minute repeater and to make its operation as secure as possible, Chopard Manufacture has introduced a number of innovative systems. Thus, if the barrel no longer has sufficient force to power the minute repeater, a safety mechanism blocks its release. In addition, Chopard has filed a patent for a new strikework-activation device. As soon as it is activated, the pusher is disengaged, thereby making it impossible to disturb the running of the minute repeater or to damage it.
Orchestrated talents
So as to optimise and perpetuate the acoustic richness of the monobloc sapphire crystal/gong system derived from the L.U.C Full Strike, Karl-Friedrich Scheufele has initiated a new approach. In 2018, while attending a concert given by violinist Renaud Capuçon, he realised that a minute repeater watch should be designed as a musical instrument and should deliver something more – namely emotion.
Renaud Capuçon is a virtuoso of his time as well as a specialist in acoustics and sound – just like his brother, cellist Gautier Capuçon. Both play instruments that are several hundred years old and which embody a perfection and uniqueness that have stood the test of time. Karl-Friedrich Scheufele decided to call upon the two soloists to join forces with Professor Romain Boulandet – head of the Applied Acoustics Laboratory at Geneva’s HEPIA engineering school – whose work in an anechoic chamber perfectly isolated from noise pollution has demonstrated that the sound of Chopard's minute repeater is powerful, harmonious and crystal clear.
Together, these experts have combined their skill and knowledge to conduct an analysis that goes beyond the purely measurable criteria of acoustics to enter another dimension: that of sound as perceived by the listener. The L.U.C Full Strike Sapphire timepiece benefits from their analysis and their contribution, both scientific and emotional. Thanks to Chopard's unalterable sapphire gongs, the sound of the L.U.C Full Strike Sapphire is unchanging, stemming from the orchestration of complementary talents: Karl-Friedrich Scheufele for watchmaking precision; Renaud and Gautier Capuçon for artistic and emotional endorsement; and Romain Boulandet for scientific expertise.
A blend of heritage and modernity: 25 years of the L.U.C collection
Since 1996, Chopard Manufacture has been reflecting the inspired vision of the Maison’s Co-President Karl-Friedrich Scheufele. Twenty-five years after presenting its first movement, the Manufacture has acquired a degree of maturity enabling it to provide a range encompassing the entire spectrum of horological complications – all in-house crafted through an alliance of tradition and innovation.
From movement development to adjustment and quality control, along with finished product design, the stamping and machining of cases as well as movement components, engraving and traditional hand-crafted finishes, gemsetting, surface treatments, polishing and assembly: its workshops in Geneva and Fleurier enable Chopard to master the entire production process involved in each creation composing the L.U.C collection. The work of experienced artisans, these timepieces with their simple and pure design express a high degree of mechanical sophistication.
L.U.C Full Strike Sapphire
Five-piece sapphire limited edition
A rare crystal instrument
To mark the 25th anniversary of its L.U.C collection, Chopard has created a peerless transparent timepiece, as well as revolutionising the minute repeater for the second time in five years. In addition to the gongs of the L.U.C 08.01-L chronometer-certified calibre, the entire case, crown and dial of this new L.U.C Full Strike Sapphire model are cut from blocks of sapphire. Measuring 42.5 mm in diameter and totally transparent, it offers a 360-degree view of a movement with exceptional finishes. This entire horological prodigy bears the Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark, a first for a non-metallic timepiece. Endorsed by virtuoso brothers Renaud and Gautier Capuçon, its acoustic richness achieves an exceptional level of quality, while perfect homogeneity makes it an unparalleled timepiece combining a stunning conceptual challenge with supremely accomplished execution.
With the L.U.C Full Strike Sapphire, the L.U.C collection takes a further step into the crystal age. In 2016, the first L.U.C Full Strike model heralded a new watchmaking paradigm, a novel way of generating and propagating the sound of a minute repeater. By using solid sapphire gongs and having the sapphire crystal serve as a resonator, as well as by making these two components into a single monobloc entity, Chopard Manufacture broke the glass ceiling. The result is incomparable tonal richness and acoustic intensity, qualities that previously earned the first L.U.C Full Strike model in rose gold the ultimate “Aiguille d’Or” award at the 2017 Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève.
A sapphire heart
The L.U.C Full Strike Sapphire timepiece is the first minute repeater watch whose case is made entirely of corundum crystal, better known as sapphire. By merging container and content, musical expression and transparency, Chopard has created a veritable horological musical instrument. Thanks to the homogeneity of the material – which is present throughout the sound propagation chain – this five-piece limited series gets the very best from sapphire.
Above and beyond its aesthetic prowess, the choice of lab-created sapphire is justified by its technical properties: derived from synthetic corundum, this material is one of the most resistant to scratches and has an estimated hardness of nine on the Mohs scale, almost as hard as diamond. Moreover, although producing a sapphire case entails considerable machining difficulties, it has the advantage of remaining unalterable over time.
A sapphire body
The 42.5 mm diameter case is 11.55 mm thick, with well-balanced proportions identical to previous versions of the L.U.C Full Strike, and which contribute to the characteristic elegance of the L.U.C collection. The bezel, caseband, crown, case-back and rear glass are all made of sapphire crystal. This rare model, whose absolute transparency enables the wearer to become one with the timepiece, has been created by specialised artisans mastering all the requirements of sapphire technology, from powder to finished component. The manufacturing process follows strict sustainable development rules, from the energy consumed in the production of corundum crystal through to transport.
In addition, the dial too is made of sapphire. Its distinctively cut shape enhances the indication elements essential for reading. Absolute transparency can in fact have the effect of blurring the view and Chopard has remedied this by creating a railway-type minutes track engraved on the sapphire crystal and painted. It complements a chapter ring punctuated with rhodium-plated herringbone-shaped applied hour-markers, and black transferred counterparts. The sapphire ring is interrupted by three elements. The first is the off-centre seconds counter. The second is an applied white gold plate bearing the "L.U.CHOPARD" logo. The third is the concentric power-reserve indicator in which two hands respectively indicate the energy remaining in the barrel that drives the movement as well as in the other powering the minute repeater.
Innovative heart
The L.U.C Full Strike Sapphire is the first non-metallic timepiece to bear the prestigious Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark, covering both the design and finishing of the movement and the case. In addition, the L.U.C Full Strike Sapphire watch inherits the latest advances with which the L.U.C 08.01-L movement is endowed. Its patented resonant sapphire structure is complemented by several innovative technical systems, four of which are patented.
In a minute repeater mechanism, the energy required by the strikework is provided each time the winding lever is activated. Here, the energy comes from a separate, dedicated barrel wound directly by the crown. It enables the L.U.C Full Strike Sapphire to chime the most complex and energy-intensive time of day (or night) – namely 12 hours and 59 minutes – up to 12 times. This exceptional autonomy is due to several factors. It benefits from the contribution of a patented clutch-lever mechanism that ensures that the strikework going train is blocked, to avoid losing power reserve during the information capture that controls the minute repeater.
Innovative body
This autonomy is moreover also the result of Chopard Manufacture's experience in multiple barrels. The founding movement of the L.U.C collection – L.U.C Calibre 96.01-L launched 25 years ago – in fact already featured Chopard Twin technology, whose two superimposed barrels deliver long-lasting and reliable force. Since it has an autonomous energy source, the strikework systematically respects the defined rhythm, whatever the time that is chimed and however many times it chimes.
Keen to preserve the user-friendliness of the minute repeater and to make its operation as secure as possible, Chopard Manufacture has introduced a number of innovative systems. Thus, if the barrel no longer has sufficient force to power the minute repeater, a safety mechanism blocks its release. In addition, Chopard has filed a patent for a new strikework-activation device. As soon as it is activated, the pusher is disengaged, thereby making it impossible to disturb the running of the minute repeater or to damage it.
Orchestrated talents
So as to optimise and perpetuate the acoustic richness of the monobloc sapphire crystal/gong system derived from the L.U.C Full Strike, Karl-Friedrich Scheufele has initiated a new approach. In 2018, while attending a concert given by violinist Renaud Capuçon, he realised that a minute repeater watch should be designed as a musical instrument and should deliver something more – namely emotion.
Renaud Capuçon is a virtuoso of his time as well as a specialist in acoustics and sound – just like his brother, cellist Gautier Capuçon. Both play instruments that are several hundred years old and which embody a perfection and uniqueness that have stood the test of time. Karl-Friedrich Scheufele decided to call upon the two soloists to join forces with Professor Romain Boulandet – head of the Applied Acoustics Laboratory at Geneva’s HEPIA engineering school – whose work in an anechoic chamber perfectly isolated from noise pollution has demonstrated that the sound of Chopard's minute repeater is powerful, harmonious and crystal clear.
Together, these experts have combined their skill and knowledge to conduct an analysis that goes beyond the purely measurable criteria of acoustics to enter another dimension: that of sound as perceived by the listener. The L.U.C Full Strike Sapphire timepiece benefits from their analysis and their contribution, both scientific and emotional. Thanks to Chopard's unalterable sapphire gongs, the sound of the L.U.C Full Strike Sapphire is unchanging, stemming from the orchestration of complementary talents: Karl-Friedrich Scheufele for watchmaking precision; Renaud and Gautier Capuçon for artistic and emotional endorsement; and Romain Boulandet for scientific expertise.
A blend of heritage and modernity: 25 years of the L.U.C collection
Since 1996, Chopard Manufacture has been reflecting the inspired vision of the Maison’s Co-President Karl-Friedrich Scheufele. Twenty-five years after presenting its first movement, the Manufacture has acquired a degree of maturity enabling it to provide a range encompassing the entire spectrum of horological complications – all in-house crafted through an alliance of tradition and innovation.
From movement development to adjustment and quality control, along with finished product design, the stamping and machining of cases as well as movement components, engraving and traditional hand-crafted finishes, gemsetting, surface treatments, polishing and assembly: its workshops in Geneva and Fleurier enable Chopard to master the entire production process involved in each creation composing the L.U.C collection. The work of experienced artisans, these timepieces with their simple and pure design express a high degree of mechanical sophistication.
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Brand : Chopard Collection : L.U.C Model : L.U.C Full Strike Sapphire Reference : 168604-9001 Complement : Transparent Sapphire - Strap Alligator Leather List Price : 456 500 € Diameter : 42,50 mm Thickness : 11,55 mm Styles : Atypical High Horology Types : Hand-winding Calibre : L.U.C 08.01-L Calibre distinction : Skeleton COSC certified Hallmark of Geneva Côtes de Genève Balance-spring with Phillips terminal curve Complication : Stop second mechanism Small Seconds Case peculiarity : Sapphire caseback Open caseback Engraved caseback Crown with integrated strikework pusher in sapphire with L.U.C logo 8.80 mm Polished caseband bezel and case-back Sapphire crystal with two Chopard-patented integrated monobloc gongs Shape : Round Dial : Sapphire Open Display : Applied rhodium-plated herringbone-type hour-markers Applied rhodium-plated Dauphine hours and minutes hands Rhodium-plated baton-type small seconds hand Rhodium-plated baton-type movement power-reserve and strikework power-reserve hands Indexes : Chevrons Strap material : Alligator leather Strap color : Grey Strap clasp : Folding buckle More characteristics :
Movement
Mechanical hand-wound L.U.C 08.01-L
Number of components 533
Total diameter 37.20 mm
Thickness 7.97 mm
Number of jewels 63
Frequency 28,800 vph (4 Hz)
Power reserve 60 hours
Mainplate and bridges in untreated nickel silver
Bridges adorned with Côtes de Genève motif
Minute repeater
Chopard-patented monobloc sapphire crystal and gongs
Chopard-patented variable-inertia balance
Chopard-patented clutch-lever device serving to block the strikework so as to avoid losing power reserve during information capture
Chopard-patented dedicated ratchet-driving mechanism serving to avoid pauses during chiming
Strikework-activation device serving to act on the pusher whether it is chiming or not, in normal, low, continuous or fast mode (patent pending)
Functions:
Minute repeater striking sapphire gongs (Chopard-patented system)
Central display of the hours and minutes
Small seconds display at 6 o’clock
Concentric display of the watch and strikework power reserves at 2 o’clock
Boitier
Saphir transparent
Couronne avec poussoir déclencheur de sonnerie intégré, en saphir, avec logo L.U.C 8,80 mm
Strap / Buckles
Strap in hand-sewn grey alligator leather with grey alligator lining
Folding clasp in polished and satin-brushed ethical 18-carat white gold
Numbered five-piece limited edition