Insider: Chopard Alpine Eagle XL Chrono Rose Gold. Almost as Heavy as an AP 'Brick'.
The Chopard Alpine Eagle collection combines elegant design with robust construction, making it a versatile choice for watch enthusiasts. Inspired by the Chopard St. Moritz from 1980, the Alpine Eagle line features a distinctive textured dial inspired by an eagle's iris. The integrated bracelet seamlessly blends into the case, providing a comfortable and secure fit on the wrist. Powered by Chopard's in-house movements, the Alpine Eagle watches deliver reliable precision. With a sporty yet sophisticated aesthetic, the Chopard Alpine Eagle collection appeals to individuals who appreciate both style and substance in their timepieces. The Alpine Eagle XL Chrono ref. 295393-5002 just released at Watches & Wonders 2024 is one of those watches that leaves you in awe.
The Alpine Eagle XL Chrono in 18K rose gold is a flyback chronograph in a case measuring 44 mm in diameter with a thickness of 13.15 mm entirely crafted in ethical 18K rose gold. Like the entire collection, this model remains strongly inspired by the power of the eagle and the beauty of the Alps. Ethical gold, also known as fair trade gold, is sourced in a way that ensures social and environmental responsibility throughout the entire mining process. Miners are paid fair wages, work in safe conditions, and are not exposed to harmful chemicals like mercury. Additionally, ethical gold mining aims to minimize environmental impact by reducing pollution and deforestation. Consumers who choose jewelry made from ethical gold can feel confident that their purchase supports sustainable and responsible practices within the jewelry industry.
Things to Know About the Watch
The watch is equipped with a ‘Bernina Gray’ dial as a tribute to the color of Alpine rocks. The Swiss Alps, a majestic mountain range snaking through Switzerland, captivate with their rugged beauty and grandeur. Towering peaks, snow-capped year-round, command the skyline, luring adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike to explore their pristine wilderness. The Alps boast an unparalleled richness of biodiversity, with diverse flora and fauna thriving in its varied ecosystems. Visitors can partake in a myriad of activities, from skiing on world-renowned slopes in St. Moritz to hiking picturesque trails in Zermatt.
The dial layout features running seconds at 6 o’clock, a 12-hour chrono register at 9, a jumping 30-minute chrono register at 3 o’clock, and a discreet date aperture with a calendar disc in the same color as the dial between 4 and 5 o’clock. The ‘Bernina Gray’ color on the dial is obtained by galvanic treatment and the texture of the dial is inspired by the iris of the eagle. The dial features gilded Roman numeral at 12 o’clock and hour-markers coated with SuperLumiNova. The hands for the chronograph registers are red as well as the tip of the chrono central seconds hand.
To guarantee a water resistance of 100 meters, the watch is equipped with a screw-down crown. The case combines an exquisite satin-brushed finish and polished areas around the center links of the bracelet, the crown guards, and the case shoulders on the left caseband.
The watch is very heavy at a total weight of 310 grams which is only 20 grams short of an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore in rose gold ‘The Brick’ which is the heaviest solid gold watches in the market.
The Movement
Turning the watch over reveals the automatic calibre Chopard 03.05-C. This 310-part movement is equipped with a column-wheel flyback chronograph with a jumping 30-minute chrono counter and 45 jewels. The movement beats at a frequency of 28,800 vph to provide a power reserve of 60 hours.
On the Wrist & Price
When it comes to wearing the Chopard Alpine Eagle XL on the wrist, the experience is nothing short of exceptional. The timepiece effortlessly combines elegance and functionality with its sophisticated design inspired by the Chopard St. Moritz with impressive craftsmanship when it comes to its satin-brushed finish. The 44 mm case size wears slightly smaller and more like a 42 mm timepiece but is extremely heavy on the wrist. A watch that for sure will make a statement wherever you go.
The intricate details on the dial, with the jumping hour window and the minute hand contribute to the overall aesthetics in a flawless way. The Chopard Alpine Eagle XL Chrono wears with a commanding presence on the wrist, striking a balance between sporty elegance and everyday versatility.
The integrated bracelet seamlessly flows into the case, providing a secure fit. The brushed and polished surfaces play with light, showcasing the intricate details of the watch. The distinctive textured dial adds depth and character, creating a dynamic look that transitions effortlessly from casual to formal occasions. Overall, the Chopard Alpine Eagle makes a bold statement on the wrist while maintaining a refined aesthetic that speaks to the wearer's discerning taste.
Sticker Price USD 73,400. For more info on Chopard click here.