WATCHES & TIMEPIECES
In accordance with Maki-e technique , gold flakes – placed between layers of lacquer made from the sap of the Toxicodendron vernicifluum tree – light up a background featuring a tiger perched above a bay surrounded by cliffs , against a starlit background . Claws out and jaw turned sideways , it appears to be deliberately flaunting its strength and majesty . The lacquerer ’ s attention has been focused on each detail of this scene in order to reveal its blend of realism and lyrical beauty .
Exquisite technical refinement
The case of the L . U . C XP Urushi Year of the Tiger timepiece is entirely carved from 18-carat rose gold , sourced from an ethical supply chain pioneered by Chopard . It measures 39.5 mm in diameter and its slim bezel ensures a broad dial opening . In addition to its graceful design and refined ornamental execution , the L . U . C XP Urushi Year of the Tiger is also an ultrathin timepiece measuring a mere 6.80 mm thick .
Mechanical performance
This thinness is enabled by a 3.30 mm-thick in-house L . U . C 96.17-L movement that is self-winding despite its extremely modest size . It is equipped with a micro-rotor – a small offcentred oscillating weight made of 22-carat gold – which is incorporated into the overall thickness of the calibre .
Its strong inertia enables it to ensure efficient winding of the two barrels , which are stacked according to Chopard Twin technology and store the energy required for the L . U . C XP Urushi Year of the Tiger timepiece to offer a total 65-hour power reserve . Once off the wrist , it will remain on time and accurate for more than two and a half days , neatly corresponding to a long weekend .
Heritage meets modernity : 25 years of Chopard Manufacture
Since 1996 , Chopard Manufacture has been reflecting the inspired vision of the Maison ’ s Co-President , Karl-Friedrich Scheufele . Twenty-five years after presenting its first movement , the Manufacture offers an exhaustive range covering the entire spectrum of horological complications , all crafted in-house in a blend of tradition and innovation .
Movement development , finished product design , gold smelting , stamping and machining of cases and movement components , engraving and traditional hand-crafted finishes , gemsetting , surface treatments , polishing , assembly , adjustments and quality controls : its Swiss workshops in Geneva and Fleurier enable Chopard to master the entire production process involved in each creation of the L . U . C collection . The work of experienced Artisans , these timepieces with their simple and pure design express the highest degree of mechanical sophistication .
Issue 50 2022 The Art of Luxury
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