CHOPARD L.U.C Engine One Tourbillon 2011 – Titalyt®-Coated Titanium Case with Anthracite Strap & Titanium Case with White Strap
Extremely strong character with its sleek bodywork and a high-performance “engine” are the two special highlights of the L.U.C. Engine One Tourbillon. Equipped with the L.U.C 1TRM tourbillon movement machined like an engine block and mounted on silent-blocks, this timepiece pays tribute to the world of motor sports.
In 2010, Chopard launched the limited edition L.U.C. Engine One Tourbillon to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the manufacture.
In 2011, Chopard presents two new respectively red- and orange-accented versions in limited series. Housing a high-precision movement machined like an engine block, these models display bright red or orange colours for the hands and hour-markers.
Fitted with a hand-sewn black alligator leather strap enhanced by four reinforced inserts evoking the seats of classic racing cars, the first features a titanium case with a matt Titalyt® coating and is water-resistant to 50 metres, while the slightly curving lugs are streamlined like car wings, ensuring excellent wearer comfort and enhancing the dynamic effect of this sleek 35.4 x 44.4 mm case.
The dial is also inspired by the automobile world and plays on the theme of transparency. The glare-resistant sapphire crystal protects engraved Arabic numerals that are orange tinted – a colour reflected in the Dauphine-type hour and minute hands.
These touches create a particularly striking contrast with the rhodiumed black components of the mechanical movement, as well as accentuating the sporting mood of this model.
The second variation is equally appealing with its white alligator strap designed to be worn by both men and women, along with a luminous polished titanium case matching the silver-toned white appearance of the movement.
The latter finish, which is exclusive to the L.U.C collection and to Chopard, is achieved by means of a special new treatment. Meanwhile, the hands, hour-markers and Arabic numerals feature bright red accents that give this model a resolutely sporting look.
These L.U.C Engine One Tourbillon models house a proprietary mechanical hand-wound tourbillon movement, L.U.C Calibre 1TRM. Similar to a car engine, this movement is mounted on silent blocks in order to better absorb shocks and is stabilized by three lever arms inserted into the middle of the case.
This L.U.C Calibre 1TRM designed, developed and produced by Chopard Manufacture beats at a cadence of 28,800 vibrations per hour and boasts a 60-hour power reserve. Chronometer-certified by the COSC, a definite token of reliability and precision, this tourbillon movement drives the display of the hours, minutes, seconds and the power reserve.
In keeping with automobile traditions, the reamed engine block bears the Chopard signature; while a circular segment directly fixed to the upper face of the movement carries the power-reserve display at 12 o’clock positioned opposite the Tourbillon Bridge at 6 o’clock.
Vividly embodying the encounter between the automobile world and that of fine watchmaking, these L.U.C Engine One Tourbillon models are produced in limited series of 100 each.
Technical details
Model: CHOPARD L.U.C Engine One Tourbillon
References
Ref. 168526-3002 – In titanium with white strap – 100-piece limited edition
Ref. 169526-3003 – In Titalyt®-coated titanium with anthracite strap – 100-piece limited edition
Case
Case in polished titanium or with a matt Titalyt® coating
Length : 44.40 mm
Width: 35.40 mm
Thickness: 10.90 mm
Water-resistant to 50 metres
Titanium crown with L.U.C logo: 7.00 mm
Engraved glare-proofed sapphire crystal on front
Glare-proofed sapphire crystal on back
Movement
Hand-wound tourbillon movement L.U.C 1TRM
Total diameter : 34.00 X 25.90 mm
Thickness: 5.60 mm
Number of jewels: 29
Frequency: 28,800 vph
1 barrel
Power reserve : 60 hours
Chronometer certified (COSC)
Dial and hands
Arabic numerals engraved and orange or red tinted under the sapphire crystal
Rhodiumed Dauphine fusée-type hour and minute hands
Black or rhodiumed small seconds hand
Functions and displays
Central hour and minute hands
Small seconds at 6 o’clock
Power-reserve display at 12 o’clock
Strap and buckle
Hand-sewn black or white alligator leather lined with brown alligator leather featuring gadrooned motif
Titanium pin buckle
