Description

The present reference is the Chopard L.U.C Full Strike in Fairmined White Gold, an extraordinary acoustic masterpiece and one of the most innovative minute repeaters in modern haute horlogerie. Issued as an exceedingly exclusive limited edition of only 20 pieces, this timepiece showcases Chopard Manufacture’s mastery of high complications, uniting acoustic purity with certified ethical sourcing.

The case measures 42.5 mm in diameter and 11.55 mm in thickness, presenting exceptionally refined proportions for a minute repeater of this complexity. It is crafted in 18k ethical Fairmined white gold, left intentionally non-rhodium-plated to preserve the warm, natural hue of the alloy. The architecture is finished to the highest standard, featuring finely satin-brushed casebands contrasted by a mirror-polished bezel and caseback, with sapphire crystals fitted on both sides.

The partially openworked dial is executed in solid gold with a galvanised silver tone, framed by a delicate snailed chapter ring. Black rhodium-plated Roman numerals and matching Dauphine-fusee hands deliver superb contrast, while the small seconds counter is positioned discreetly at 6 o’clock. At 2 o’clock, a coaxial double power reserve indicator displays both the going train’s autonomy and the striking mechanism’s stored energy, distinguished by a heat-blued hand for the repeater reserve. The open dial architecture reveals the dual mirror-polished steel hammers at 10 o’clock, allowing the wearer to observe the striking mechanism in action.

Powering this grand complication is the in-house Calibre L.U.C 08.01-L, a manually wound movement composed of 533 components that holds both COSC chronometer certification and the prestigious Poinçon de Genève (Hallmark of Geneva). Operating at a frequency of 4 Hz (28,800 vph), the calibre provides a 60-hour power reserve.

The defining technical breakthrough of the Full Strike lies in its patented monobloc sapphire gongs. Rather than using traditional steel gongs welded to the movement plate or case, Chopard machines both the front crystal and the circular gongs from a single, seamless block of sapphire. When struck, the entire sapphire crystal vibrates as an acoustic resonator, producing an exceptionally rich, crystalline, and powerful chime with no acoustic degradation. The movement also incorporates sophisticated mechanical security devices, preventing accidental actuation while striking or damage caused by winding during chime sequences.

The watch is presented on a stunning black alligator leather strap, secured by an 18k Fairmined white gold pin buckle. Limited to just 20 examples worldwide.

Chopard – Bio

Chopard is a Swiss watchmaker and jewellery maker founded in 1860 in Sonvilier by Louis-Ulysse Chopard originally known for making ladies’ watches and pocket watches. In 1963, Chopard was sold to Karl Scheufele, a watchmaker from Pforzheim, Germany. The Scheufele family have owned the company up to the present day. The company is headquartered in Geneva and has a site in Fleurier, Canton of Neuchâtel that manufactures watch movements.