At the BaselWorld 2010, Chopard will present the new addition to its iconic L.U.C collection, the L.U.C Engine One Tourbillon watch. To celebrate the brand’s 150th anniversary, this watch will been released in a limited series of 150.

Just beginning from its shape, the watch’s first impression on me is like an engine block and mounted on silent blocks. It seems that this exceptional model makes a deliberate departure from the traditional principles of horological design, as it houses an exceptional movement completely conceived and manufactured by Chopard. Inspired by a car engine, the brand’s prestigious shaped hand-wound movement – L.U.C 1TRM caliber – fitted on shock-absorbing silent blocks, sports this new Chopard watch.

At a thickness of just 5.6mm, the mechanical movement is quite a feat considering its shaped form. In the mechanism, the brand’s exclusive “Variner” adjustment masses consists in three major parts: the escapement with its freely sprung balance, a hairspring featuring a Breguet terminal curve, and a tourbillon cage performing one revolution every 60 seconds. The movement provides a power reserve of 60 hours and beats at the frequency of 28,880 vph. In addition, the L.U.C 1TRM bears the COSC-chronometer certification. The watch case back reveals a sapphire exhibition window that allows to appreciate the beautiful finishing of the movement.

Back to the external design, the L.U.C Engine One Tourbillon watch features a unusually designed titanium case measuring 35.4*44.4mm, a nice combination of brushed and polished surfaces. To highlight the car-inspired theme, the case is completed with brushed flanks and distinctively curved lugs. There is a big winding crown placed between protective guards, offering most comfortable way to wind or set the timepiece. The water-resistance is 50 meters.

To create a one-of-kind three-dimensional effect and assure maximum legibility, the dial is shielded by a shaped sapphire crystal engraved with hour markers and indices. Divided into a satin area in the center and vertically striated outer areas, the dial underscores a unique skeletonized bridge for the tourbillon carriage, coupled with the power reserve indicator. Moreover, the subdial of the power reserve display is finished with an evocative automobile gas-gauge design.

This new Chopard model comes with a hand-sewn crocodile leather strap, fitted with a titanium buckle with the brand’s logo. This watch is really a exception in those presentable Chopard watches.

Technical Specifications

Movement
Hand-wound, manufactory-made L.U.C 1TRM tourbillon calibre, COSC-certified, 29 jewels, 28,800 vib/h, mounted on silent blocks and held by 3 lever-arms inserted into the case middle, 60-hour power reserve

Functions
Hours, minutes, seconds and power reserve indicator

Case
Brushed/polished titanium, 44.4 x 35.4 mm
Anti-reflective sapphire crystal front and back
Screwed open back
Water-resistant to 50 m

Dial
Arabic numerals engraved under the crystal then dyed in black
Tourbillon cage and small seconds at 6 o’clock
Power reserve indicator at 12 o’clock

Bracelet/Strap
Hand-sewn black alligator with godroons, titanium buckle

Retail
$50,000-150,000