Chopard returns this year with a brand new exclusive timepiece befitting any momentous occasion. Presented in a generous 43mm case in rose gold, a closer look at the sides of this unique timepiece reveals a complex design depicting the 12 signs of the Chinese zodiac, which is set to make its debut during a private exhibition held in Beijing.
According to the Geneva-based company, a total of 200 hours were devoted to the creation of the case alone, which was achieved via a handheld enamelling technique known as champlevé. This tedious process involves carving out depressions directly into the piece of metal to be filled in with pulverised vitreous enamel and results in a unique patina. Ardent followers of the Chinese zodiac with an eye for detail will be pleased to know that the 12 animals carved into the case have also been placed in chronological order in accordance with the Chinese calendar.
The elegance of the watch is further enhanced by numerous details that include an 18K gold dial hand-engraved with snailed counters in slate-grey, framed by a matching 18K rose gold bezel decorated with motifs inspired by Chinese iconography. Powering this formidable timepiece is the Calibre LUC 02.15-L, a handwound mechanical movement that boasts an impressive power reserve of 216 hours.
