Live From SIAR 2018: Chopard Steps Out Of Its Comfort Zone
CHOPARD evokes classicism, tradition and refined elegance. Whether in watchmaking or jewelry. Nonetheless, at SIAR, the Geneva house stepped out of its comfort zone and shook up traditional codes. The brand presented a unique, exceptional timepiece with superlative decorations: the L.U.C Perpetual T Spirit of ‘La Santa Muerte.' An astonishing surprise!
Last year, CHOPARD had already paid homage to the Chinese Zodiac with a unique timepiece. They did it again this year by interpreting one of the most significant symbols of Mexican culture: El Dia de Los Muertos, the Day of the Dead.
A joyful feast
One could consider the theme a bit morbid. Absolutely not! Quite the contrary, it is a celebration of life, which beauty is recognized once one is confronted to the possibility of Death. This beauty, this ‘joie de vivre’ is magnified by the exquisite engravings on the red gold case - all made by their in-house master engravers. A guitar, laughing death masks, plants, flowers, a sombrero, an accordion come alive on the flanks of the case in a joyful feast. The myriad of details is astounding. The Aztec motives surrounding the bezel create a talisman which we imagine having magical powers. This abundance is heart-warming. It also adorns the dial with a ‘Calavera' face - the stylized Mexican skull - dotted with sun and flower patterns. The gentle grimace, embodied by mother-of-pearl ‘teeth,' shines under a mustache which acts as the tourbillon bridge, adding a humorous touch to the creation.
A Haute horlogerie masterpiece
Moreover, this piece of art multiplies horological complications. The L.U.C 02.15-L caliber empowering this marvel boasts a Tourbillon, a perpetual calendar displaying bissextile years and a commanding 9-days power reserve provided by 4 barrels. Artful watchmaking indeed! This L.U.C Perpetual T Spirit of ‘La Santa Muerte’ is also COSC certified: a warranty of chronometric precision indicated by the ‘Chronometer’ inscription on the all black and rose gold dial. The ‘Poinçon de Genève’ quality hallmark provides the final touch to this outstanding timekeeper. We are indeed in the realm of Very High Horology.
When creativity, artisanal and horological craftsmanship combine, the result is sumptuous like this unique timepiece. Very impressive CHOPARD!
This incredibly complex creation is presented at the moment at the SIAR 2018 in Mexico. Its price? It does not matter, and it has already found its lucky owner! The collectors eager for exceptional pieces will have to wait for next year hoping to catch the next opportunity.
(Photography by Liam O’Donnell)