Less than a month ago, Chopard launched the first worldtimer in the Chopard L.U.C collection. The new Chopard L.U.C Time Traveler One is available in three different metals: stainless steel, 18K rose gold and platinum. While all iterations are really nice, our ultimate favorite is the platinum version with its blue-tinge grey dial. Fitted with a 42 mm case in 950 platinum with alternating satin brushed and mirror polished areas, the new Chopard L.U.C Time Traveler One is yet another perfect addition to the Chopard timepieces collection. Designed to accompany globetrotters around the world, this new watch provides the time across 24 different time zones. All it takes is a single glance at the dial to know the time elsewhere with the exception of the 13 other quarter-hour and half-hour time zones. Equipped with a black alligator strap with pin buckle in 18K white gold, the new Chopard L.U.C Time Traveler One in platinum ref. 161942-9001 is a very elegant and good looking timepiece.
The Dial
Fitted with a grey dial with a very subtle blue greenish tinge and a sunburst finish, the dial is a true chameleon. Depending on lighting conditions the dial would switch from a true dark grey, all the way to a greenish grey. Fitted with three different concentric rings, the dial presents a lot of depth and visual impact. At the center one can find a date indicator with pointer hand, followed by a snailed ring with white Arabic numerals and minute markers, then a 24-hour graduated ring that is half silver-toned to mark the daytime hours and lastly a disc bearing the 24 cities controlled by the crown located at 2 o'clock bearing the L.U.C engraving.
Once the home time and the cities' ring is synchronized via the crown with a globe motif located 4 o’clock, no more adjustment is required. While the dial is somewhat busy —a common issue with most worldtimers out there—, the readability of the different indications is not that complicated. However, we think that it might take a day or two for one to get used to the layout and get properly acquainted with it. extremely reasonable 12.09 mm thickness means it can be worn discreetly under a shirt sleeve, while its alternating satin-brushed and polished finishes endow it with the inherent sense of distinction shared by all L.U.C timepieces.
The Movement
The new Chopard L.U.C Time Traveler One in Platinum is powered by the completely new Chopard in-house calibre 01.05-L manufactured at the Fleurier workshops. This automatic movement composed of 262 parts and 39 jewels is distinguished by its low profile — 6.52 mm in thickness— and for providing a reasonable power reserve of 60 hours when fully wound, while beating at a frequency of 28,800 vph. Fully visible via the display case back, this COSC certified movement is very well finished with Côtes de Genève throughout.
On the Wrist & Pricing
The new Chopard L.U.C Time Traveler One wears true to its size and unlike most platinum watches, it wears quite light and comfortably. The watch is water resistant to 50 meters and perfectly suited to travel the world with you without skipping a beat. In sum, this watch offers great value for the money and from a design standpoint unparalleled looks.
Sticker Price $35,200 USD. For more info on Chopard click here.
