Chopard L.U.C Tourbillon for Only Watch 2013

12/08/2013 | By Frank Geelen | 2 min read |

Chopard donates a unique version of the L.U.C Tourbillon to Only Watch 2013. In order to create this unique version, they went for that extra mile and added very special decorations to the dial and movement. The result is a extraordinary version of the L.U.C Triple Certification Tourbillon in platinum.

The one-of-a-kind platinum tourbillon comes in a generously sized 43 mm-diameter platinum case, featuring contrasting polished and satin-brushed surfaces. It is equipped with the 9-day power-reserve L.U.C Calibre 02.17-L. The silver-toned and white dial that is hand-decorated with a central motif that represents the coat-of-arms of the Principality of Monaco, and it is surrounded by DNA chromosomes.

At the 12 o’clock position is a power reserve indicating 8 days, but rest assured, the L.U.C Quattro Technology – two sets of two stacked barrels – provide the 216 hours, or 9 days, of power reserve when fully wound. Surrounding the dial are applied Roman numerals in gold, which are framed by a black rail-track minute markers.

Now more about the movement. The bridges of L.U.C caliber 02.17-L, made entirely of 18-carat gold, are entirely decorated using the so-called fleurisanne engraving technique.

Fleurisanne engraving

Fleurisanne engraving originates, as one could suspect by its name, from the village of Fleurier. This artistic craft is from the late 18th century, and distinguishes itself from other methods of engraving. Fleurisanne engraving can be recognized by its raised motifs. The engraver’s work consists not in sculpting by hollowing, but instead in sparing the motif and removing the material surrounding it in order to make it stand out.

The motif represents DNA chromosomes, as a reminder of the reason behind this charity auction: to support research on Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a degenerative neuromuscular disease. L.U.C caliber 02.17-L features a tourbillon as regulating organ and the movement is certified by the Swiss Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC) as official chronometer.

For more information about the world tour locations – all unique pieces donated to the Only Watch 2013 auction will be showcased in the major cities around the world – can be found on the Only Watch website. The world tour will start in Tokyo on August 30 and visit the following major cities around our globe: