Not only is it the maison’s first minute repeater, it is also the first watch in the world to use sapphire gongs to strike the hours, quarters and minutes.
Chopard is celebrating the 20th anniversary of its Chopard Manufacture with the launch of its first ever minute repeater, the LUC Full Strike.
There are many reasons to be excited for this new release – not only is it the maison’s first minute repeater, it also features a number of world premiere aspects like using sapphire gongs to strike the hours, quarters and minutes, a league-of-its-own construction to stand it out from other minute repeaters out there and excellence of its Poinçon de Genèva finishing for a crystal clear sound that’s unlike any other.
Sapphire Rings
The LUC Full Strike chimes the hours, quarters and minutes on transparent crystal gongs. Sapphire rings are then used for the watch glass to create the perfect loudspeaker that faithfully diffuses the chimes that results in a matchless purity that is rich, full, powerful and resonant. The chime itself is unique: the gongs are tuned to two notes – C and F – so the tonal richness boasts unprecedented amplitude so the souns is full-bodied and crystal clear.
The art of construction
A minute repeater is all about levels, with one layer measuring time and the other transforming time into sound notes, so often times they can come across as slightly thicker. The LUC calibre measures only 11.5mm thin. Yet, it is able to house two barrels, both equipped with slipping springs to protect them against snapping from overwinding. The barrels are charged by means of a large-diametre rose gold crown, coupled with a differential gear that transmits force imparted by the hand towards the appropriate barrel, according to the direction in which the crown is wound.
Poinçon de Genèva hallmark
All the above is enabled by one of the most sophisticated and inventive movements ever created by Chopard Marnufacture. Almost 17,000 hours was taken to develop the calibre 08.01L calibre, which is subjected to 3 patents. It allows the impossible operation and ergonomics of the striking system to go discreetly unnoticed on the wrist – except when the crown-integrated pusher is pressed down to chime the hours, quarters and minutes when needed.
An outstanding interpretation of the minute repeater, the LUC Full Strike is limited to only 20 pieces. Log on to the official Chopard website here for more information.
