CHOPARD - L.U.C Engine One Tourbillon

For lovers of beautiful engineering.

Press release

L.U.C Engine One Tourbillon © Chopard

 
It has distinctive character, undeniable power and represents a deliberate break with traditional watch design principles. This mechanical marvel is powered by an exceptional “motor”, proprietary L.U.C Calibre 1TRM.  Machined like an engine block and mounted on silent-blocks, this mechanical hand-wound tourbillon movement was designed, developed and produced at Chopard Manufacture. Like the most coveted sports cars, the titanium L.U.C Engine One Tourbillon is naturally issued in a limited edition.

L.U.C Engine One Tourbillon © Chopard

To celebrate Chopard's 150th anniversary as well as the decades of passion it has shared with the world of motor sports, the Geneva-based brand is introducing this new L.U.C Engine One Tourbillon model combining the finest elements of the two forms of mechanical expression. From its strong lines to the most subtle details, everything about this powerful timepiece honours the automobile spirit also admirably accentuated by a fine watch movement machined like an engine block.

Hand-wound tourbillon movement, L.U.C Calibre 1TRM © Chopard

This L.U.C Engine One Tourbillon model houses a proprietary mechanical hand-wound tourbillon movement, L.U.C Calibre 1TRM. In much the same way as a car engine, this movement is mounted on silent blocks – that absorb shocks – and held by three lever arms inserted into the case middle. 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 sure token of reliability and precision, this tourbillon movement drives displays of the hours, minutes, seconds and the power reserve.

Hand-wound tourbillon movement, L.U.C Calibre 1TRM © Chopard

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 featuring a design that is a first for Chopard.

Representing a magnificent mechanical feat of engineering, the L.U.C Engine One Tourbillon is distinguished not only by its high-end motorisation, but also by its bodywork that endows it with an inimitably sophisticated style. The titanium case is water-resistant to 50 metres and features alternating polished and satin-brushed finishes; it also carries slightly curved applied lugs that enhance the overall dynamic effect. Streamlined like car wings, these lugs ensure excellent wearer comfort and a perfect fit on the wrist for the opulent 35.4 x 44.4 mm case.

L.U.C Engine One Tourbillon © Chopard

The dial is also inspired by the automobile world and plays on the theme of transparency. The new Arabic numerals characteristic of the L.U.C collection and the hour-markers are engraved and black-tinted beneath the glare-resistant sapphire crystal.

The hand-sewn black alligator leather strap setting the perfect finishing touch to this model is enhanced by four reinforced inserts evoking the seats of classic racing cars.

Vividly embodying the strong ties between the automobile world and that of fine watchmaking, the L.U.C Engine One Tourbillon in titanium is produced in a limited series of 150, in honour of Chopard's 150th anniversary.



Technical details

Case:

Brushed/polished titanium case
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-resistant sapphire crystal front and back
Exhibition back secured with screws
    

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 black tinted under the sapphire crystal
Dauphine fusée-type hour and minute hands
Counter-type 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 alligator leather lined with brown alligator leather with gadroons
Titanium pin buckle

Ref. 168526-3001            

Limited edition: 150