Since 2002, we have been a partner of Monaco’s fabulous Grand Prix de Monaco Historique, where every two years, racing cars from the most sought-after collections go head-to-head on the Principality’s winding roads. The GPMH was created in 1998 to mark the 700^th anniversary of the Grimaldi family’s accession to the throne of the Principality representing the vintage version of the Formula 1 Grand Prix. Raced along the same route through the streets of Monaco, it is reserved exclusively for classic racing cars, making it unique in its kind.

Chopard’s involvement is another sign of our relationship with the world of classic cars and our profound respect for sporting excellence driven by passion and precision. The race is held two weeks before the Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix. It takes place on the same legendary route, the 3.3 kilometre-long Monaco circuit, which has barely changed since its establishment on April 14, 1929.

The Grand Prix de Monaco Historique offers a retrospective of the car races held during the Golden Age of Monaco. This year 221 drivers, from 20 countries took part in race – among them some celebrities such as Nick Mason, Tony Smith, Dieter Quester and Arturo Merzario and for the first time three female pilotes, with their vehicles, all of which were legends in their time, including models by Lotus, Bugatti, Delage, Alfa Romeo, Aston Martin, Jaguar, Maserati and Ferrari, as well as Formula 1 cars built before 1979 by brands such as Brabham, Lotis and Williams. This race is undoubtedly the most popular circuit race for vintage cars that makes beat hearts faster of all fans of historic motor sport.

Karl-Friedrich Scheufele’s close friend Jacky Ickx, former Formula 1 champion, had put on his helmet and gave two special runs in a unique single-seater racing car, the “Auto Union Typ C” with its heavy engine compared to its small chassis and body which was built in 1936 and known as the Auto Union Silver Arrow, a truly motorsport legend.

Garance Doré started her blog – www.garancedore.fr – in June 2006 and since then has become one of the 10 most influent fashion bloggers in the world. Famous for her sense of style, she travels around the world to capture her favourite moments and share them with her readers.

A few days before the start of the 65^th Cannes International Film Festival, Garance Doré shares with us her thoughts:

What are your expectations on the eve of your second Cannes?

I want to exalt the glamorous side of Cannes. And I do not mean glitter, but the kind of moments where stars are themselves, vibrate for a movie, for an encounter, or are simply sitting at a café with the locals… Yes! I’m sure this still happens!

What places / things are you eager to find again?

I cannot wait to feel the electric atmosphere of the streets of Cannes and the cool and quiet of the Chopard terrace at the top of the Martinez. I love the contrast.

I also look forward to meeting new personalities and spending intimate moments with some actresses that I love. Seeing again the Chopard team that I love and admiring the new jewellery collections are precious moments as well.

Her most memorable moments from 2011?

My first „Montée des marches“,  what stress it was! But it’s amazing to find yourself, for an instant, at the center of the universe of cinema.

The amFAR, too, and the jewellery that I wore, sublime.

Oh, and I almost forgot. The most emotional? Running into Jean-Paul Belmondo, Jean-Pierre Marielle and Jean Rochefort in the lobby of the Martinez…

Any other topic she would like to share?

Last year, I was not present for the Trophée Chopard. I’m really excited to participate this year!

To discover Garance Doré’s pictures and comments from Cannes, follow us throughout the 65^th Cannes International Film Festival.

Lula will illustrate with her own unique touch the 65 ^th Cannes International Film Festival. “Lula, Diary of the Cannes experience” will include: celebrities on the Red Carpet, the Palme d’Or, our Co-PresidentCaroline Scheufele…

To discover Lula’s illustrations from Cannes, follow us throughout the 65^th Cannes International Film Festival.

A passion for fine mechanics, extreme precision and rigorous standards have united the House of Chopard and the Grand Prix de Monaco Historique since 2002. This partnership has given rise to a prestigious eponymous collection dedicated to high-speed enthusiasts.

The new Chopard Grand Prix de Monaco Historique 2012 pays tribute to 1970s models. Sophisticated, ultra-light, available in titanium, titanium and rose gold, and rose gold versions, this chronograph features the aesthetic appeal and distinctive colours of historical racing cars.

The matt titanium case as well as the anthracite dial of this model are directly inspired by the historical bodywork features. This understated backdrop is lit up by bright colour accents – orange or blue according to the version – enlivening the hour-markers, the seconds hands and the stitching on the grey Barenia calfskin strap. These colours echo the graphic design characteristic of the 1970s, as do the tone-on-tone racing stripes on the dial.

Equipped with a mechanical self-winding movement chronometer-certified by the COSC, the Grand Prix de Monaco Historique 2012 model displays the hours, minutes, small seconds and the date through an aperture, naturally complemented by chronograph functions and a tachometric scale. The 42.4 mm-diameter case provides glimpses of the mechanical movement through an exhibition back engraved with the inscription “Grand Prix de Monaco Historique”, and featuring a sapphire crystal bearing the insignia of the Automobile Club de Monaco. Water-resistant to 50 metres and also issued in a special titanium and rose gold 500-piece limited edition, this watch is equipped with a strap featuring a pin buckle made of titanium – an additional nod to the quest for lightness typical of motor sports.

The California Mille began on April 30^th at 8:45am, departing from Nob Hill, San Francisco. Headed towards the Golden Gate Bridge, Rio Vista, and Walnut Grove, the drivers took highway 88 toward Sutter Creek and Lake Tahoe concluding the first day in Incline Village, Nevada.

On day two, the drivers headed toward Emerald Bay, and South Lake Tahoe, and traversed 395 toward Minden followed by a return to Incline Village by way of Carson City, Virginia City, and Mt. Rose Highway.

The Mille departed for day three northbound to Nevada City for a stroll of the historic district by way of Highway 28 to 89 and Truckee. Highway 20 then took the cars towards Marysville, Sutter and Sacramento and continued to the Silverado Trail ending Day three at Solage Calistoga.

The final leg of the 1,000-mile drive began in Calistoga and followed Highway 128 to Geyersville, over two bridges near the coast, and down the stunning coast on Highway 1 to Jenner. The coast highway then took the Mille to the Marshall-Petaluma Road, onto Hicks Valley Road, through Chileno Valley Road, into Petaluma, onto the Lakeville Highway, and straight to Solage Calistoga on Highways 116, 121 and 29.

The 22^nd annual drive concluded at Solage for the final banquet and awards dinner. Throughout the race, the drivers made pit stops that included dining at world-renowned restaurants, stays at luxurious hotels and tours of historic towns and museums.

Passionate about vintage cars, Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, Co-President of Chopard, has been playing an active part in the Classic Racing universe, giving rise to a collection of watches which represent elegance and high performance needed in both the watch and classic car race industries.

Caroline Scheufele offered a new interpretation of the famous trophy awarded to the best film of the Festival: a delicately curved 18-carat gold stem with a small heart at its base, reminiscent of the symbol of the firm. The stem is adorned with leaves appearing to have been caught in mid-motion and it rests on a crystal cushion shaped like an emerald-cut diamond. This precious detail makes each Palme d’Or unique, for Mother Nature never creates two identical crystals…

In 2000, the symbolic object was joined by two additional Palmes, identical replicas of the Palme d’Or only smaller. They are presented every year to the Best Actress and Best Actor staring in a competing movie. In 2011, the Palme d’Honneur, previously awarded sporadically, has become a yearly tradition. This sister to the Palme d’Or, mounted on a smoked crystal, is from then on awarded every year at the beginning of the Festival to an important director never before honoured in Cannes.

All these trophies are hand crafted every year in our workshops of Chopard by our craftsmen. Synonymous with talent and recognition, the emblem of the most famous Cinema Festival is henceforth inextricably linked to the story of Chopard.

For one entire day, the salons of the Ritz Hotel on Place Vendôme were transformed into a workshop where jewellery artisans offered guests a chance to discover the specific nature of High Jewellery crafts. Designer, model-maker, wax sculptor, jeweller and gemsetter… Seven of these artisans could be seen intently exercising their art on the models in the Red Carpet 2012 collection currently in production. Among them was the collection’s flagship model, a timelessly elegant necklace paying tribute to Marilyn Monroe.

This initiative was taken by Caroline Scheufele who explains it in these terms: “The creations by our fantastic artisans take pride of place on red carpets, while they themselves remain in the background. We therefore decided to change all that by training the spotlight on our High Jewellery workshop. And what better showcase could one imagine than Place Vendôme?”

Eva Herzigova, a friend of Chopard’s, who will be wearing the jewellery creation paying tribute to Marilyn Monroe for the mounting the steps ritual at the opening ceremony of the Cannes Film Festival, along with Bérénice Béjo who plays Peppy Miller in the award-winning film The Artist and who will host the Cannes Film Festival’s opening and closing ceremonies, both gladly accepted Caroline Scheufele’s invitation and honoured these travelling workshops with their presence.

Fashion photographer, Milton H. Greene, whose friendship with the star was legendary, is behind the lens and produced 25 images which demonstrate the grace, mystery and diaphanous vulnerability of a super photogenic star with a million facets. The exhibition will be held during the Cannes Film Festival and will be followed by a worldwide tour lasting the rest of the year.

Behind the Hollywood goddess, was a woman of shadows and light. Caroline Scheufele drew her inspiration from this icon to design a timelessly elegant jewellery set. Diamonds – what else? – pay a fitting tribute to the girl who sparkled as she sang Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend, while the shimmering gleam of white gold vividly conveys Marilyn’s enchanting glow. This magnificent necklace – a cascade of heart-shaped diamonds, briolettes and brilliants – will adorn a glamorous woman as she glides up the famous red-carpeted staircase at the May 16th opening ceremony of the Cannes Festival.

This exceptional event is part of the long history of the ties binding Chopard to the world of film-making. Official partner of the Cannes Festival for the 15th year, we proudly design the Palme d’Or and support young talent. This abundance of encounters, desires and shared emotions continues to nourish Chopard’s outstanding creativity, engraved in the heart of dreams and pervaded by a sense of the exceptional.

The 25 exclusive photographs by Milton H. Greene were selected by The Archives, LLC, Chopard and Oscar Generale from the 4,000 photographs taken by Milton Greene, to which his son, Joshua Greene, owns the rights.

The Chopard Facebook Timeline tells a story of life and happiness, beyond that of a brand and its collections. “Haute Joaillerie does not have to be serious!”, as Caroline Scheufele recently said during an interview on the Happy Mickey collection.

From the day when Caroline Scheufele crafted her first watch out of aluminum fold when she was 11 years old to her current role as Co-President and Artistic Director of the world-renowned luxury brand; from the moment when Karl-Friedrich Scheufele knew he would follow his fathers steps to the day that the first L.U.C 1.96 movement was created, a family has been driven by a passion for remarkable high watchmaking and high jewellery.

Passion and excellence are forces that fuel each other, the same way that the personalities of the Scheufele family members complement one another.

JOIN OUR CONTEST!

To pique your curiosity and invite you to travel through our memories, participate in our contest, Moments of Passion and Excellence! From April 2 to April 9, 2012, visit our Facebook page to find the answer to the below question, and you could win a copy of the book Chopard, the Passion for Excellence – Celebrating 150 years of history.

“For the 15th time this year, Chopard will be crafting one of the most legendary trophies in the film industry, designed by our co-President, Caroline Scheufele. Can you name it?”

To enter the contest, simply post your answer in the “Leave a reply” field below.

Read the Contest Rules

The Facebook Timeline launch is an opportunity to look forward, too, and we foresee more sparkling moments of happiness, excellence and passion. Thank you for being part of them!

We have concocted a banquet of sweet delights, freely combining the most precious stones with more unusual gems to create an exquisite array of pink sapphires, amethysts, rubellites, tsavorites, tourmalines and opals. Caroline Scheufele, Chopard Co-President and Art Director, loves nothing more than to play with unusual ways of mixing and matching trends and subtle nuances.

This delicious collection of eye candy appoints pastel as the master of ceremonies, inviting luscious colours to its dessert buffet. As light as a cloud of whipped cream, the long sautoir necklaces and earrings shine in fruity raspberry, pistachio green and blackberry shades. The velvety roundness of the smooth and sparkling stones is strongly reminiscent of multi-coloured sweets.

Infused with a delectably fresh and mischievous flavour, these refined dainty delights are designed to be savoured without restraint. And because they embody the new relaxed vision of High Jewellery, women will enjoy wearing them often just for the sheer pleasure of it.

It feels so good to just succumb…

The sublime radiance of jewellery expressed as a watch? Such is the promise nestling at the heart of the unique models that emerge each year from our workshops. Creating them calls upon the finest in-house craftsmen and requires hundreds of hours of work. It all begins with human hands – the expert, patient and inventive hands of the artisans of Chopard who take turns in delicately fashioning these exceptional pieces. The flowing interaction and complementary nature of different talents is facilitated by the physical integration of over 30 crafts under one roof – a privilege that the Scheufele family cultivates with all due care through focusing on handing down know-how from generation to generation and on training. Chopard is keenly aware that the most precious of all corporate assets is human expertise.

From draughtsman to watchmaker, jeweller, gemsetter and polisher, the full range of specialists unite their skills in giving shape to the most daring dreams. High Jewellery watches vividly embody technical virtuosity dedicated to serving eminently contemporary artistry as well as traditional watchmaking techniques. Time is an essential factor in making a High Jewellery watch since each of them demands several hundred hours of work. Depending on its shape, it may house a mechanical or quartz movement. Traditionally crafted in 18-carat white gold, it is meticulously set with a refined combination of navette-, baguette- or brilliant-cut diamonds that exalt the beauty of its lines and proportions.

By clothing the dial of the new Mille Miglia in a silver livery, a new reference is added to our Racing Colours collection that evokes the colour-coded livery of cars taking part in international motor races until the late 1960s.Germanyis in the spotlight this year with the Mille Miglia GT XL Chrono Speed Silver, with other Racing Colours to follow in the near future.

The origin of Racing Colours dates back to the Gorden Bennett Cup, the famous car race launched in 1900 and pitting national teams against each other. This competition gave rise to “Vintage Blue” forFrance, “Rosso Corsa” forItaly, “British Racing Green”, “Speed Yellow” forBelgium, and finally “Speed Silver” forGermany.

The new Mille Miglia GT XL Chrono Speed Silver features a generous 44 mm-diameter polished titanium case. Its brushed silver-toned dial bears hollowed and snailed silver-toned counters and makes a stylish and refined match with the stitching on the black leather strap, while the minute numerals transferred on the inner bezel ring lend a touch of colour typical of dashboard speedometers. Its oversized 6 and 12 o’clock Arabic numerals transferred beneath the sapphire crystal lend an impressive and modern touch that enhances the technical side of the timepiece.

The aerodynamic titanium pushers, along with the tachometric scale engraved on the bezel, enhance the Mille Miglia GT XL Chrono Speed Silver’s sporting nature. The perfect overall readability is highlighted by a glare proofed sapphire crystal with built-in magnified date window at 3 o’clock. The exhibition back is fitted with a sapphire crystal providing a view of the movement proudly bearing the Speed Silver logo.

The case equipped with a screw-locked crown is water-resistant to100 metres. It houses a mechanical self-winding movement chronometer-certified by the COSC and beating at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour, meaning 4 Hertz, and endowed with a 46-hour power reserve. It drives the hours, minutes, small seconds at 9 o’clock, date display at 3 o’clock and chronograph function with central sweep seconds hand, 30-minute counter at 12 o’clock and 12-hour counter at 6 o’clock. As befits its exclusive nature, the Mille Miglia GT XL Chrono Speed Silver model is issued in a 1,000-piece limited edition.

The light, playful and sparkling dance of the famous Happy Diamonds is exploring an auspicious new tempo as it chances its luck with the figure 8. Throughout history and many different cultures, 8 has always been seen as a good omen, a token of balance, completeness and prosperity: the promise of happiness tinged with an aura of infinity.

In China, the figure 8 conveys a particularly powerful symbolism: considered a lucky number, it is believed to augur well for the success of human endeavours. The Beijing Olympic Games were indeed opened on 08.08.2008 at exactly 8.08 pm! In the West, 8 is also a powerful symbol which, when shown horizontally, represents infinity, with its self-enclosed, uninterrupted lines evoking the absence of any limits.

The ideal curves, richness and power of the figure 8 have inspired us to create a collection where the infinity purity of the lines echoes that of the materials in a subtle association between diamonds and white gold. In these watches and pendants, the spirit of Happy Diamonds is ever present through the free-spirited play of the precious gems, while the curves of the 8 find a stylistic echo in the interlacing circles. Metaphorical infinity thus becomes a dazzling embrace, guided by a universal lucky sign.

The sheer wealth and finesse of its details make the IMPERIALE collection an eminently feminine model, and its timeless chic revives the spirit and the splendour of imperial classicism. Born in the 1990s and entirely revisited in 2010, the IMPERIALE radiates an appeal stemming first and foremost from its harmonious proportions and refined details. Endowed with a powerful and symbolic character, it asserts itself as the natural choice for women impelled by an all-conquering spirit.

A wealth of details nod to the heyday of the imperial age. Roman numerals punctuate the dial and mark off the hours, while the centre features a delicately carved mother-of-pearl backdrop graced with motifs calling to mind the embroidered cushions that used to bear the royal insignia. This refined canvas is swept over by exquisitely curved hands evoking the sharp daggers used by sovereigns in combat.

A crown delicately curved like a lotus flower and set with an amethyst cabochon is fitted to a case middle with sleek sides designed to give the model a lighter and more luminous glow. The shape of the lugs echoes the tradition of ancient columns that are famed for their perfectly balanced proportions.

After several years of studies and development, the engineers and watchmakers of Chopard Technologies and the horological research division of the Chopard Group, have succeeded in perfecting a mechanical movement beating at a frequency of 8 Hz, meaning 57,600 vibrations per hour and meeting the most stringent Swiss watchmaking standards.

This L.U.C 01.06-L movement is also distinguished by the highly adaptable nature of its high-frequency escapement, since it is indeed compatible with almost all existing L.U.C movements developed by Chopard Manufacture – a major step forward that further consolidates the coherent nature of the company’s Fine Watchmaking collection.

The primary value of high frequency in watchmaking applications lies in a significant improvement in the precision timekeeping properties of a calibre, particularly in terms of rate resumption and stability. A higher number of vibrations of the balance means less sensitivity to disturbances, and Chopard’s technology breakthrough takes on its full meaning when viewed from this angle. For if the choice of high frequency implies enhanced reliability and consequently increased precision, it is quite logical that a product comprising this added value should be duly recognised by an official certification.

In addition to ensuring greater reliability, high frequency – which naturally requires more energy – is in this instance associated with a remarkable 60-hour power reserve generated by a single barrel. In terms of materials, the engineers at Chopard Technologies decided to work with silicon for certain escapement components (impulse-pin, lever, escape wheel) and developed a new means of fixing silicon on steel (patent pending).

Entirely in keeping with the futuristic movement housed within, the 42 mm-diameter case of the L.U.C 8HF model is made of titanium. It is water-resistant to 30 metres and distinguished by its crown at 4 o’clock, also in titanium and bearing the L.U.C logo. The date appears in a pointer-type display at 5.30, while the red small seconds hand at 6 o’clock travels far more smoothly than on ordinary watches thanks to the high-frequency escapement and its 57,600 vibrations per hour. The resolutely avant-garde case features titanium monobloc lugs and caseback with a matte finish. A magnifying glass built into the half-closed case-back is positioned just above the high-frequency escapement, providing a chance to appreciate its finer details.

The L.U.C 8HF model is teamed with a hand-sewn matte black alligator leather strap with a cognac-coloured alligator lining, fitted with a titanium pin buckle. It is issued in a first 100-piece limited series equipped with the high-frequency experimental L.U.C 01-06-L movement.

It already caused a sensation at the time of its launch in 2005. While losing nothing of its mechanical excellence, the L.U.C Lunar One has undergone a transformation that ranks it among the great classics of Swiss Haute Horlogerie. The voluptuously rounded 43 mm-diameter case in 18-carat rose gold embraces the new curves of the L.U.C collection. The polished and satin-brushed lugs have been entirely redesigned to ensure enhanced comfort and perfect stylistic equilibrium. The crown, engraved with the L.U.C logo, is slender while remaining perfectly ergonomic. The case-back with its generous glareproofed sapphire crystal central opening is engraved with the inscriptions “Chopard Manufacture”, “Lunar One” and “L.U.C”.

To underscore the exceptional technical qualities of this major complication, the dial – silver-toned and satin-brushed to focus the light on the L.U.Chopard legend – reveals subtle refined touches dedicated to enhancing readability. In addition to the personalised gold-toned “Dauphine” style hands, the hours are now displayed as Roman numerals – 1960s inspired delicate golden appliques – framed by a railtrack graduation of a black transferred type similar to the three subdials indicating the small seconds, month and day of the week.

This refined style is matched by a peerless movement. Chronometer-certified by the COSC and stamped with the Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark, the mechanical self-winding L.U.C 96.13-L calibre housed within the L.U.C Lunar One model is endowed with an approximately 70-hour power reserve. It drives the hours, minutes, small seconds at 6 o’clock, a perpetual calendar with large twin-aperture date display at 12 o’clock, days of the week and 24-hour indication at 9 o’clock, as well as months and leap years at 3 o’clock.

The moon phases are displayed with great precision and in an unusual manner, since they rotate around the small seconds axis, hence the name “orbital”. Their degree of precision is such that the difference between two lunar cycles amounts to a mere 57.2 seconds, meaning one day in 122 years! Only the most reputed watch manufacturers are able to offer such sophisticated horological complications.

The L.U.C Lunar One is designed to match the evolution in the criteria governing the granting of the Poinçon de Genève hallmark, which as of 2012 no longer merely set the seal of approval on the craftsmanship of the movement alone, but now on that of the watch as a whole. Water-resistant to 50 metres, it is fitted with a new semi-matt or matt black hand-sewn alligator leather strap featuring a cognac-coloured alligator leather lining and secured by an 18-carat rose gold pin buckle.

Beware of outward appearances. The Happy Sport Chrono Mistery Pink conceals a burning fire beneath its sombre exterior. Like a blackberry bursting in the mouth and releasing a delicious tangy taste, it reveals its underlying feminine side in subtly glamorous touches that add a hint of coquetry and charm to this all-black watch. While the alligator leather strap glows with jet black radiance, the stitching is pink and the underside is an intense fuchsia shade; and among the moving diamonds enlivening the dial of this chronograph are two pink sapphires performing a colourful dance. A sapphire in the same hue adorns the crown and lends a warm glow to the powerful 42 mm black ceramic and DLC (Diamond Like Carbon) steel case.

A blend of technical sophistication and refined elegance characterizes the ultra-thin L.U.C Calibre 96.17-S. This self-winding calibre beating at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz), boasts a 65-hour power reserve thanks to the Twin® technology, a Chopard-patented system combining two coaxial barrels and representing a truly remarkable technical feat in light of the extreme slenderness of the 3.3 mm-thick movement. Its mainplate adorned with Côtes de Genève on the dial side, as well as its bridges, are meticulously openworked to reveal its inner workings. The latter are rhodium-plated black and create a contrast that cleverly highlights the gilded gear wheels visible both on the dial side and through the back.

The nickel-plated sunburst satin-brushed dial forming a ring between the case and the heart of the watch enables clear readability of the time. The unexpected two-tone effect it creates with the 18-carat rose gold case adds considerable strength of character to this model that derives unique elegance from this distinctive design feature. Two gilded Dauphine-type hands and the inscription L.U.Chopard on the glareproofed sapphire crystal further enhance the refined appearance of this 39.5 mm-diameter ultra-thin watch.

The L.U.C XP Skeletec watch – issued in a 288-piece limited series – comes on an alligator leather strap with an 18-carat rose gold pin buckle.

This line inspired by the IMPERIALE watch is pervaded by an intimate and refined boudoir spirit expressed through subtle and delicate details. The motif which adorns the dials of the watches, inspired by the traditional embroideries that used to decorate imperial gowns and cushions, blossoms on pendants, sleeper earrings, rings, and slender bracelets. The white or rose gold curves of the jewellery, which can be polished or set with diamonds, provide fascinating glimpses of the velvety skin beneath. A clever play on light and on volumes endows this jewellery with an undeniable aura of majesty.

Everything about the design of the Classic Manufacture reflects the delightful classicism of the Belle Époque — the porcelain-type dial provides a perfect setting for the shiny black Roman numerals, the small seconds subdial at 6 o’clock features a ‘railtrack’ graduation typical of the pocket-watches of the era, and the slender gold-toned hands set the finishing touch to the perfectly harmonious overall effect.

As for the contemporary element, this timepiece is equipped with the Chopard Calibre 01.04-C, a new mechanical self-winding movement.

The exquisite movement – entirely created by Fleurier Ebauches, the Chopard Group unit producing industrial movements not destined for the L.U.C Haute Horlogerie collection – drives the hour and minute hands, along with small seconds and a date display at 3 o’clock. Beating at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour, it guarantees a generous 60-hour power reserve.

Following certain models of the Chopard 2011 IMPERIALE collection being equipped with this movement, this is the first timepiece in the Classic collection to receive an ‘in-house’ movement. As such, the Classic Manufacture heralds in a new collection at Chopard.

With its refined exterior available in 18-carat rose, white or yellow gold, the beautifully rounded 38mm-diameter case features an 18-carat gold crown and an exhibition back, and is fitted with a matt black alligator leather strap with an 18-carat gold pin buckle.

Like a noble fragment of history that has found its way unscathed through time, the Classic Manufacture is a link between the prestigious pocket-watches that forged the reputation of brand founder Louis-Ulysse Chopard and modern-day wristwatches.

Follow us on our new blog to discover our exclusive creations presented at BASELWORLD from March 8 to March 15, 2012.

For this unique piece, it was clear the intention was not to define this creation as a watch or jewellery. Rather, we chose to combine the two skills on which we have built our reputation.

The breathtaking gem-setting work is a masterful demonstration of jewellery-making skills, while the L.U.C 02-14-L movement – entirely designed, developed and crafted by hand – is equipped with a tourbillon, one of the finest complications of watchmaking. The overall result is a blend of Haute Joaillerie and Haute Horlogerie that truly sets a new standard for complicated feminine watches.

Bearing the Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark, the chronometer-certified tourbillon calibre of the IMPERIALE Tourbillon Full Set is housed within an 18-carat case and dial entirely set with diamonds and demonstrating almost the entire range of our artisans’ commanding gem-setting techniques.

The snow setting technique requires combining in the center dial brilliant-cut diamonds of a variety of diameters. In addition, the crown is adorned with baguette- and briolette-cut diamonds and a power-reserve indicator set an amethysts array, while oval-cut cabochons and baguette-cut diamonds grace the bezel, lugs and bracelet.

Finally, at 6 o’clock, surrounded by amethysts set amid white lights, the tourbillon bridge reflects the distinctive motif of the IMPERIALE collection and is held in place by four amethyst-set screws.

The hand-wound L.U.C 02.14-L calibre is equipped with four stacked and series-coupled barrels. This patented Quattro® technology ensures over nine 9 days of operating autonomy as well as a constant regularity of rate. In addition, this unique model meets all the standards required to earn the chronometer certificate awarded by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC).

Uggie’s Academy Award bow tie, hand-crafted of 18kt yellow gold and satin, bearing Uggie’s name, will be auctioned off and all proceeds of will be donated to The Amanda Foundation, a nonprofit organization that rescues dogs and cats.

This year, the exclusive private gala hosted by Sir Elton John and David Furnish took place on Sunday, February 26 at West Hollywood Park in Los Angeles. Auction items included a limited edition diamond Elton John watch by Chopard, which was sold twice. The world-famous Artist and the Scheufele family united their talents in creating the Elton John watch collection, a line reflecting the singer’s exceptional sense of style and from which a percentage of sales is donated to the Elton John AIDS Foundation. We are honoured to contribute to this worthy cause every year.

For full contact information, please refer to our store locator.

Explore the above photo album to discover her picks!

- Picture 1: Happy Hearts earrings in rose gold set with diamonds, Happy Hearts ring in rose gold set with diamonds.

- Picture 2: Imperiale watch set with an amethyst on a pink alligator strap, Ice Cube ring in yellow gold set with diamonds, Happy Diamonds ring in yellow gold set with one mobile diamond.

- Picture 3: Cuff bracelet set with diamonds on titanium from the Red Carpet collection, necklace set with pear-cut rubellites, diamonds, round and pear-cut amethysts and oval-cut emeralds on white gold from the Temptations collection.

- Picture 4: Necklace and bracelet in rose gold set with mobile diamonds from the Happy Mickey collection.

- Picture 5: Happy Mickey Steel 28mm watch. Mother of pearl dial with two mobile yellow sapphires, two mobile rubies and one mobile black diamond, crown set with a yellow sapphire, Happy Mickey pendant in rose gold.

Alexa was also with us at the 64th Cannes International Film Festival shared her visual diary.

The exclusive gala dinner at Cipriani Wall Street was hosted by Sarah Jessica Parker and celebrated honorees Roberto Cavalli, Caroline Scheufele, and Goldman Sachs Gives. Elizabeth Hurley and Karolina Kurkova were some of the guests who sparkled in Chopard.

The evening paid homage to amfAR’s late Founding International Chairman, Dame Elizabeth Taylor with a video tribute and special performance by opera singer Michelle Johnson, who sparkled in Chopard. After dinner, guests enjoyed a live auction followed by performances by Theophilus London, Janelle Monáe and DJ Michaelangelo.

The very determination that has allowed Scheufele to propel the 150-year-old company to the forefront of the Haute Joaillerie arena and the world’s most glamorous red carpet events makes her a devoted philanthropist. For many years, Scheufele and her family have leveraged Chopard’s reputation to help charitable causes.

These creations are exquisitely delicate by nature, while incorporating our signature features such as the famous Happy Diamonds. The jewellery models are crafted exclusively in polished or diamond-set rose gold and white gold. The brilliant-pavé models are further enhanced by fine gemstones such as onyx and tourmaline – depending on the gold colour – forming the nose and eyes of the bear cub motif.

The result is a range of exceptional jewellery designed for everyday wear in order to make each day exceptional – an approach that aptly sums up the Chopard philosophy. The bear cubs are entirely in line with this wish to fulfill the desires of today’s woman. Their refined design is suitable to all circumstances and makes them genuine fashion accessories that are also attuned to the environment and a to contemporary theme.

The Animal World Bears jewellery is exclusively sold in Chopard Boutiques.

Explore the above photo album to discover exquisite creations!

- Picture 1: The pure, contemporary design of the Chopardissimo collection draws into the enchanting Chopard universe. Chopardissimo pendants in yellow, white and rose gold.

- Picture 2: A romantic variation on the famous Happy Sport line, the new interpretation of the Happy Heart model is an anthem to passion and the epitome of luxury and casual charm. The diamond and sapphire hearts dancing across the backdrop of the model form a powerful weapon of seduction, as are the silky purple satin strap and the white mother-of-pearl dial.

- Picture 3: The heart embodies a two-fold declaration: a token of a man’s feelings for his beloved, as well as a sign of Chopard’s enduring love for women. These jewel-like sunglasses are in tune with the 1960s vintage trend that has been worked by numerous great fashion designers for the Spring/Summer 2012 collections. Our eyewear models are authentic instruments of charm, lending the woman who wears them an aura of mystery.

- Picture 4: Like love, this Haute Joaillerie ring from the Temptations collection strikes like a bolt of lightning. The dazzling fire of the purple Paraïba tourmaline enhanced by white diamonds is truly mesmerising. This creation admirably reflects the signature meticulous craftsmanship lavished on its 18-carat rose gold setting that is micro-set with diamonds, a technique mastered to perfection by our gem setting artisans. Gold and diamonds gently embrace the centre stone, evoking the entwined arms of a couple in love.

Your own heart, the ultimate messenger of love, is also featured. Our Love Note tool allows you to send your words of love to the precious person in your life. Let your heart do the writing… When love is the message, no one says it like you!

Discover our complete selection of fabulous presents online or in Chopard Boutiques around the world.

The COSC is the only neutral body able to grant the title of ‘chronometer.’ To earn certification, a movement must be built with utmost care and precision, as well as endure 15 days of tests conducted in five different positions and at three different temperatures.

The historic Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark – of which only a very limited number of brands are worthy to claim membership – requires strict compliance with 12 exacting criteria, ranging from the integrity of the materials, the craftsmanship of components, as well as movement construction and assembly.

The Fleurier Quality Foundation certification, undoubtedly the most difficult to obtain, subjects the timepiece to the unparalleled Chronofiable testing procedure. The 21-day Fleurier procedure, which incorporates the COSC tests, evaluates long-term resilience by simulating six-months wear through strains such as impact, wrist movement, and variations in humidity.

The 43mm diameter 18-carat rose gold case embraces the new curved shape of the L.U.C collection. The polished and satin-brushed lugs have been entirely redesigned, ensuring enhanced comfort and perfect aesthetic balance. The crown, engraved with the L.U.C logo, is slimmer while remaining attractively ergonomic.

With the greatest importance placed on readability, the dial features refined silver-toned and grained detail designed to catch the light — a sublime contrast to the rhodiumed black hands personalized in the ‘Dauphine’ style. The hours are marked by delicately applied 1960s-inspired black rhodiumed Roman numerals and topped by a minute track.

The remarkable exterior encases the hand-wound Chopard Manufacture L.U.C Calibre 02-13-L (L.U.C 1.02QF), a movement fitted with four stacked and series-coupled barrels: the Chopard’s patented Quattro® technology that ensures nine full days of operating autonomy.
While the L.U.C Triple Certification Tourbillon is a first in terms of the combined level of official recognition, none of the individual certifications are new to Chopard.

All L.U.C models are certified by the COSC (apart from the L.U.C XP), and many of L.U.C movements also carry the Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark for years now. In regards to the Fleurier Quality Foundation, Chopard was one of its founding brands.

For more information about the L.U.C Triple Certification Tourbillon, please visit your Chopard boutique or our website.

BASELWORLD 2011

This year, BASELWORLD saw the launch of the IMPERIALE two-tone watch, refined and timeless timepiece for the elegant woman.

MILLE MIGLIA

Chopard has been a partner of the Mille Miglia since 1988 and this year we decided to invite you to take a closer look at the legendary race, through the pictures and words of our guest blogger Brian from Materialiste and through a contest to win the racy Mille Miglia GT XL Power Control watch!

64th CANNES FILM FESTIVAL & 10th ANNIVERSARY OF THE TROPHEE CHOPARD

The Chopard Trophy celebrated its 10th anniversary this year and was awarded to Astrid Bergès-Frisbey and Niels Schneider, by our godfather Robert de Niro. As official partner of the Cannes Film Festival since 1998, we have created this prize for young talents, further stating our passion for the art of cinema. We also manufacture every year the famous Palme d’Or.

For this 64th edition of the Festical, we invited Garance Doré and Alexa Chung to share their beautiful images as insiders at the Festival.

THE WHITE TIE & TIARA BALL

For the 13th consecutive year, Sir Elton John and David Furnish opened the doors of their splendid Old Windsor home for the legendary White Tie & Tiara Ball to benefit the Elton John AIDS Foundation, organised in partnership with Chopard.

THE HAPPY MICKEY COLLECTION

Our love for cinema also translated into the creation of the Happy Mickey Collection, with playful timepieces and jewellery celebrating the iconic film star, Mickey Mouse.

THE HAPPY DIAMONDS COLLECTION AND HAPPY MOMENTS CAMPAIGN

The new Happy Moments campaign highlighted our iconic jewellery collection, Happy Diamonds. The pieces are dedicated to the independent woman who embraces life with open arms and maintains a playful spirit in all areas of her life. Diamonds are a girl’s best friend!

125th ANNIVERSARY OF THE POINCON DE GENEVE

We were honoured to celebrate the 125th anniversary of the Poinçon de Genève and launched a limited-edition timepiece for the occasion, the L.U.C XPS Poinçon de Genève.

Follow us in 2012 for more Haute Horlogerie and Haute Joaillerie news!

Read on to discover stories from our community!

LOVE
“I was proposed to on Christmas Day on a cruise ship! My fiancé offered me a heart-shaped Chopard Happy Diamonds ring as the engagement ring. It’s my favourite ring ever from a fabulous man, my husband!”
by Anita

DISCOVERING THE WORLD
“My best Christmas vacation was when I travelled across the globe to visit Tasmania. After a few hours by plane from the Australian mainland and a one-hour drive by car, we arrived at the hotel and were seduced by the breath-taking view, the traveller’s most precious reward. The next day, we walked along the natural curves of the Freycinet Peninsula under the sun. Each turn revealed a new landscape: forest, beach, savanna, and even two friendly walibis (kangaroo-like marsupials) that let us approach them. Nature is a jewel.”
by Julie

FAMILY
“My best holiday souvenir is the first time that I went back home during my first year of study abroad. As much as I loved my college friends, it felt so great to be back in the family house, filled with joyful laughs, with cheesy music in the background and yummy smell coming from the kitchen. Sometimes the simplest small pleasures are the most precious.”
by Mark

CULTURE
“When I was 17 I travelled to Europe for the first time for Christmas vacations with my boyfriend. We went to France, Germany, the Netherlands and Belgium. This first trip to the old continent allowed me to ‘feel’ the history that had until then been in books and movies only. We visited museums, galleries, shops, and I really fell in love with Paris, its charming streets, its culture, its juxtaposition of contemporary and ancient culture.”
by Ariane

The red carpet led guests from the Boutique to the Hotel de Russie, where the dinner took place in a marvellous garden. The festive shoes created by Zanotti in collaboration with Chopard, unveiled on the red carpet in Cannes last May, were displayed in the garden, as if waiting for the next Cinderella. To further recreate the setting of a film, the beautiful evening light, and the jewels reflecting it, created special effects as the guests walked from the hotel to the boutique.

Introduced to celebrate the 60th Cannes Film Festival in 2007, the Red Carpet collection has become a tradition. Caroline Gruosi-Scheufele, Chopard Co-President and Artistic Director, was inspired by the actresses to create this Haute Joaillerie collection. The luxurious pieces are designed to perfectly express the stars’ personality and beauty as they walk the famous red carpet. Chopard had been a partner of the Cannes International Film Festival since 1998 and has designed and manufactured the sought-after Palme d’Or since then.

For more information on the Red Carpet Collection, please contact us.

For him, a watch is a timeless, universal gift. The sophistication and excellence of our timepieces is sure to please. Some chronographs have the technical nature and appearance of a racing car, such as the Mille Miglia GT XL Chrono Rosso Corsa, the Jacky Ickx Edition V and the Mille Miglia Chronograph. Others exude discreet confidence and elegance: L.U.C Chrono One, L.U.C XP Tonneau or L.U.C 1937 Classic.

Also for him, a selection of accessories to convey the Chopard tradition of elegant luxury: cufflinks reinterpreting the famous Dunlop Racing tyre-tread from the 1960′s, the Mille Miglia table clock to keep the racing spirit alive even when staying still, a sleek card holder from the Chopard leather gentlemen collection…

For her, our beautiful watches are designed to appeal to the most sophisticated women. The IMPERIALE collection presents timepieces that subtly unite simplicity, majesty and sensuality. The IMPERIALE alarm clock, iPhone case and handbag will also make her eyes sparkle. From Happy Diamonds, the Happy Sport Watch, the pretty heart-shaped Very Chopard Earrings or the brilliant Happy Spirit Pendant embody the free spirit of unset diamonds. Finally, the contemporary design and luxurious materials of the Chopardissimo ring and pendant present a gem-set or polished Chopard logo.

Explore the complete selection on A Season of Gifts or visit your Chopard boutique for personalized advice. We have also prepared a little holiday treat for you, available tomorrow on our Facebook page. We wish you splendid end of year celebrations, filled with happy moments with your loved ones!

Building on its mastery of the art of jewellery making and leaving conventions aside, Chopard presents a mouth-watering ‘buffet’ of precious sweet treats. The rings, earrings and necklaces are crafted in sovereign precious stones, and other gems also sparkle and shine: rubellites, kunzites, tsavorites, amethysts and Paraiba tourmalines complement diamonds, emeralds and sapphires.

Defying the generally sober style of the winter months, colour is the star of the collection. The pear shape appears in various guises such as a dewdrop, a sun-ripened fruit or a petal. Giving free rein to the imagination, it can be interpreted as a twist on the tale of the forbidden fruit.

The Chopard Temptations collection embodies a new conception of relaxed and casual luxury: Haute Joaillerie creations that you love to wear for the sheer pleasure of this unique epicurean experience. “The only way to get rid of temptation is to yield to it”, said Oscar Wilde.

The Temptations collection is sold exclusively at Chopard boutiques around the world.

The major change to the requirements of the quality hallmark is that the entire watch will now be certified. This important evolution reinforces the value of the Poinçon de Genève for both clients and watchmakers. It is the result of a thorough review by the technical commission, bringing together a multidisciplinary team of experts from the watchmaking industry, the Ecole d’horlogerie de Genève and the TIMELAB Foundation. The commission focused on the client’s desire for exceptional products and indisputable quality to establish the new criteria. The revised Poinçon de Genève law will come into force in June 2012 and members will be granted a delay to adapt their manufacturing process.

We are proud to be part of this celebration and to evolve alongside this prestigious hallmark. The L.U.C XPS Poinçon de Genève 125th Anniversary Edition was created in honour of the quality seal, to showcase Genevan watchmaking expertise and passion.

After the screening, adults and kids discovered the collection of watches and jewellery, beautifully displayed among Mickey Mouse archive prints and figurines in the private rooms of the Royal Monceau Hotel. Chocolate fountains, pop corn and a giant Mickey Mouse-shaped buffet by Pierre Hermé were served. Youngsters enjoyed Mickey-themed activities, including a Princess for the make-up atelier, a magician and a Disney Studio artist who taught the secrets of sketching Mickey Mouse.

We have been official partner of the Cannes Film Festival for numerous years and our close ties with the world of cinema are materialized in this first ever collaboration with Disney. The Happy Mickey Collection offers fresh and colourful creations such as necklaces, pendants, earrings, bracelets and the iconic Happy Sport watches crafted in white or rose gold. The pieces humorously and subtly emphasise Mickey’s most singular characteristics. The collection is available exclusively at Chopard Boutiques around the world.

The stunning 18-carat rose gold timepiece features a chocolate-toned dial with satin-brushed motif. The watch houses the L.U.C 96.01-L (L.U.C 1.96) movement bearing the celebrated certification. This exceptional calibre is also chronometer-certified by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute and clearly visible through the transparent case-back.

The L.U.C collection embodies the excellence of our savoir-faire, a perfect blend of innovation and tradition, of technique and art. Manual craftsmanship renders each watch unique: fewer than 5 000 L.U.C watches are born at the Chopard Manufacture each year.

The Poinçon de Genève quality hallmark is an all-in-one guarantee of origin, craftsmanship and durability. A watch is only eligible if its movement is assembled and adjusted in Canton Geneva, if it is numbered, and if it meets the craftsmanship criteria established by the Technical Committee. These criteria will be updated in 2012 to further represent contemporary Genevan high watchmaking.

We invite you to visit our dedicated website for the complete technical specifications of the L.U.C XPS Poinçon de Genève 125th Anniversary Edition and more information about the L.U.C collection and the Poinçon de Genève.

The Award trophy is a tree crafted in aluminium, held between two glass-plates, fixed in a partially transparent base, presented in an elegant pear wood case. Through its roots firmly planted in the ground and its branches reaching towards the sky, the tree symbolises stability, the link between past and future and the continuity of generations. It illustrates the family business spirit, which draws its strength from tradition in order to move towards the future.

Chopard celebrated its 150^th anniversary last year and is one of the few family businesses in the watch and jewellery industry. Owned by the Scheufele family, Chopard traces its history back several generations. Caroline Scheufele and her brother Karl-Friedrich Scheufele are the company’s current Co-Presidents, their father Karl serving as chairman of the Chopard Group. He and his wife Karin are still active in the company. The Scheufele family and Chopard continue to build on key values such as tradition and quality, while focusing on innovation, creativity and great flexibility.

Located in the Bahrain Moda Mall, the 130-square meter boutique boasts an upper V.I.P floor. The space is reminiscent of a beautiful home and blends Chopard’s century-old family tradition and high-tech creations. White oak and fine leather cover the wall panels; store fixtures and furniture fronts evoke luxury and warmth. Luscious velvet on the curtains and upholstery of chairs brings a sense of opulence, beautifully complemented by the marble fireplace. Renewable woods are used under this Boutique concept to limit the destruction of trees.

Introduced at the end of 2007 with the opening of a flagship store on Madison Avenue in New York, the concept reinterprets the design codes in a contemporary style. Master architect and designer Thierry Despont has contributed to landmark architectural projects: he was Associate Architect for the Centennial Restoration of the Statue of Liberty, designed the Decorative Arts galleries of the new J. Paul Getty Museum in Los Angeles, as well as the renovation of Claridge’s hotel in London. Mr. Despont’s Boutique concept is the perfect setting to view Chopard’s collections, now and in the years to come. His fresh approach is true to Chopard’s DNA and history while remaining innovative.

Full coordinates available on Chopard’s Store Locator: http://www.chopard.com/#/en/pages/storelocator

After a period of refurbishing the Chopard Boutique Vienna has now also been adapted to the new architectural concept by Thierry Despont. On October 13^th 2011, José Carreras was inaugurating the new styled Chopard Boutique in the Viennese city center together with the Scheufele family while the famous Viennese boys choir was performing.

More information available about the Chopard Boutique in Vienna.

Dedicated to the woman who is happy to be independent, the Happy Diamonds campaign invites you to be part of the universe of happiness by creating and sharing your most joyful moments. Chopard’s very first application on Facebook and for iPhone, iPad and Android allows you not only to explore the finest details of the trendy watches and jewellery collection, but also to seize the most cherished moments of your life and to share them with the Chopard community. The experience is completed with a film as well as multi-channel off and online activities.

The Happy Diamonds jewellery and timepieces are an iconic collection of Chopard. They have been lighting the sparkle in women’s eyes and hearts since their creation. This latest collection presents soft, sophisticated shapes and lines that are complemented by the carefree movement of brilliant diamonds. The simple yet bold pendants, necklaces, rings, earrings, charm bracelets and watches in white, yellow and rose gold simultaneously emit a natural glow and a cheeky sparkle that mimic the unique allure of a confident, dynamic and modern woman. In addition to more whimsical symbols and animal shapes, circles and hearts figure prominently in the collection, often melding themselves into a lively expression of feminine refinement.

The Happy Diamonds collection and campaign represent an effervescent articulation of the independent woman who embraces life with open arms and maintains a playful spirit in all areas of her life.

The Happy Diamonds Collection is exclusively sold in Chopard Boutiques and Corners.

Discover the full collection on www.chopard.com/happydiamonds

Guests, who included parents and their kids, enjoyed a special Disney animation screening of Mickey Mouse vintage black and white cartoon shorts in the cinema, to re-discover the legend of the renowned mouse. Among them were: Alexa Chung, Eva Herzigova and her son George, Camilla Rutherford, Donna Air and Jemma Kidd.

After the screening, adults and kids discovered the collection of watches and jewellery, beautifully displayed among Mickey Mouse archives prints and figurines in the private rooms of the Electric Club. Champagne and cupcakes were served, while children enjoyed milkshakes and a giant brownie cake in the shape of Mickey Mouse. Youngsters enjoyed Mickey-themed activities, among which was an artist from the Disney Studio who taught the secrets of sketching Mickey Mouse.

The Happy Mickey Collection offers a broad range of fresh and colourful creations such as necklaces, pendants, earrings, bracelets and the iconic Happy Sport watches crafted in white or rose gold. The extremely varied jewellery models humorously and subtly emphasise Mickey’s most singular characteristics. This range is available exclusively in Chopard Boutiques around the world.

A passionate cinema enthusiast, an official partner of the Cannes Film Festival, and a revealer of youthful talents, Chopard has for many years been acknowledged as the jeweller of stars and of the movie world. The latest “guest star” in this ongoing romance is another film icon, albeit this time a fictional one. Although unprecedented, this close encounter is certainly no coincidence. Disney is a historical symbol in the film industry, and its “mascot” figure brings back countless pleasurable childhood memories and has exactly what it takes to appeal to Chopard. The intrepid mouse and the daring jewellery company share the same joie de vivre, the same dynamic attitude and the same resolutely independent spirit.

The Happy Mickey Collection offers a broad range of fresh and colourful creations crafted in white or rose gold: long necklaces, pendants, necklaces, bracelets, earrings… and of course Happy Sport watches, as Chopard enriches the longstanding tradition of timepieces bearing the effigy of the legendary mouse. Whether through explicit references or discreet nods to the inimitably vivacious character, the extremely varied jewellery models humorously and subtly emphasise Mickey’s most singular characteristics: his broad smile, twinkling eyes, or simply his unique and instantly recognisable round ears.

Chopard’s designers, jewellery craftsmen and gemsetters give free rein to their talent in capturing the personality of the friendly mouse, while lending him a stylish touch of trendy chic. Enlivened by the presence of diamonds and moving coloured precious stones, the inimitable black and white silhouette sparkles with a blend of elegance and carefree cheerfulness. Disney aficionados are bound to appreciate the result, as too will devotees of retro-vintage fashion and casual luxury.

The Happy Mickey Collection is exclusively sold in Chopard Boutiques and Corners.

Discover the full collection on www.chopard.com/happymickey

Caroline Scheufele and her brother Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, Co-Presidents of Chopard, both feel it is the duty of any major company to promote a cause as vital as that defended by WWF through both daily activities and punctual actions. The involvement in environment and biodiversity conservation projects is Chopard’s contribution to building a future where humans can live in harmony with nature.

Mila is a young Indonesian woman who learnt about the plight of the tigers at an early age and dreamt about doing something about it. After graduating, she joined WWF as a tiger conservationist. Mila heads a Tiger Research Team who work in central Sumatra, Indonesia, setting up camera traps which photograph or film tigers. This material is used to help calculate the number of tigers and their movement patterns, gathering data that aids in conservation management.

More information about WWF’s initiative on http://www.panda.org/tigers

For this special occasion Chopard has created a special limited edition watch the “Haciendas Classic Chopard Rally” chronograph.

On this special occasion, Chopard has designed a special black and yellow-toned version of the now famous L.U.C Engine One Tourbillon. A unique piece, the Only Watch L.U.C Engine One Tourbillon 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. It has distinctive character, undeniable power and represents a deliberate break with traditional watch design principles.

From its strong lines to the most subtle details, everything about this powerful timepiece honours the automobile traditions. The 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.

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 Only Watch is distinguished not only by its high-end motorisation, but also by its bodywork that endows it with an inimitably sophisticated style. The DLC titanium case is water-resistant to 50 metres and features alternating polished and matt finishes; it also carries slightly curved lugs screwed onto the case 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 whose side is engraved with the “Only Watch 2011” mention.

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 yellow-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.

More information about Only Watch charity auction

More information about L.U.C Engine One Tourbillon watches

Developed in cooperation with Jacky Ickx himself, this fifth edition is a fine example of watches dedicated to classic racing. It offers all the features that are indispensable for a racing driver. First, the chronograph which, in addition to the 60-minute counter at 9 o’clock, features two other specific characteristics: a 24-hour counter at 6 o’clock serving to check the remaining race duration at any time; and the flyback function enabling the user to start a new timing operation without first needing to reset the hands to zero. This saves valuable time aboard a car roaring around Le Mans at over 405 km/h – the track speed record. The tachometric scale engraved on the bezel also serves to measure speed over a 1,000-metre distance: for example, 1,000 metres covered in 45 seconds corresponds to a speed of 80 km/h. A large date display at 12 o’clock and small seconds at 3 o’clock set the finishing touch to the perfectly balanced design of this exceptional model.

Its rugged and resolutely sporting stainless steel 42.4 mm case is water-resistant to 50 metres, while the black dial with its two silver-toned counters and one black counter maintains excellent visibility even in the dark, thanks to Superluminova-coated hands and hour-markers. Shock-resistant and equipped with screw-lock pushers and crown to ensure optimal water resistance, the Jacky Ickx Edition V is designed to withstand extreme weather conditions as well as all manner of physical stresses and strains – precisely such as those experienced at the wheel of a car taking part in the Le Mans 24 Hours. Issued through an exclusive 2000-piece limited edition in stainless steel and 500-piece in 18ct rose gold, it is immediately recognisable thanks to the 6/24 inscription on the case-back, symbolising the six victories clocked up by Jacky Ickx in this legendary race.

Jacky Ickx is one of the greatest drivers in the history of motor racing. During his time on the Formula 1 racing circuit from 1967 to 1979, he took part in 114 Grand Prix races and earned his first win at the 1968 French Grand Prix at the age of 23. However, Jacky Ickx is above all famous for his performances in endurance races, and particularly in the Le Mans 24 Hours, an event he won six times in total. This multi-talented competitor also finished first in the 1983 Paris-Dakar car rally. The launch of the new Jacky Ickx Edition V coincides with the presentation this year of a documentary film retracing the legendary driver’s outstanding career.

The gala evening also celebrated the UN International Year of Forests, acknowledging the crucial role of forests in building a future where humanity lives within the Earth’s ecological limits. WWF is advocating a target of near zero deforestation by 2020, down from the current rate of 13 million hectares of forest lost each year – an area more than three times the size of Switzerland.

“With political will and a commitment to sustainable farming, forestry and consumption, the world can provide resources for a growing population, while conserving the habitats and species that share our planet,” said Jim Leape, Director General of WWF International.

The forest theme was brought to life for the 300 Panda Ball guests through Chopard’s stunning forest-themed décor made from reused, recyclable or sustainably sourced materials. On display were selections from photographer Yann Arthus Bertrand’s exhibition, “Of Forests and People”, which illustrates the beauty of people and wilderness.

During the evening, a charity auction was conducted by Simon de Pury, one of the world’s most renowned auctioneers, helping to raise funds for WWF’s conservation work. The one-of-a-kind Chopard High Jewellery Animal World collection was presented during an impressive show with models and dancers. Kirsty Bertarelli, the evening’s musical artist performed a live acoustic set including her new single, “Green”, which she dedicated to WWF as a conservation anthem. Proceeds from the event will support WWF conservation projects around the world.

H.S.H Prince Albert II of Monaco highlighted his foundation’s partnership with WWF, which supports the conservation of Bluefin tuna in the Mediterranean Sea, Siberian tigers in China, freshwater in the Himalayas, as well as the creation of protected marine areas, and support for children’s environmental clubs in Madagascar.

Visit www.panda.org/news for latest news and media resources.

Fitted with a hand-sewn black alligator leather strap enhanced by four reinforced inserts evoking the seats of classic racing cars, the first features a titanium case with a matt Titalyt® coating and is water-resistant to 50 metres, while the slightly curving lugs are streamlined like car wings, ensuring excellent wearer comfort and enhancing the dynamic effect of this sleek 35.4 x 44.4 mm case.

The dial is also inspired by the automobile world and plays on the theme of transparency. The glare-resistant sapphire crystal protects engraved Arabic numerals that are orange tinted – a colour reflected in the Dauphine-type hour and minute hands. These touches create a particularly striking contrast with the rhodiumed black components of the mechanical movement, as well as accentuating the sporting mood of this model.

The second variation is equally appealing with its white alligator strap designed to be worn by both men and women, along with a luminous polished titanium case matching the silver-toned white appearance of the movement. The latter finish, which is exclusive to the L.U.C collection and to Chopard, is achieved by means of a special new treatment. Meanwhile, the hands, hour-markers and Arabic numerals feature bright red accents that give this model a resolutely sporting look.

These L.U.C Engine One Tourbillon models house a proprietary mechanical hand-wound tourbillon movement, L.U.C Calibre 1TRM.  Similar to a car engine, this movement is mounted on silent blocks in order to better absorb shocks and is stabilized by three lever arms inserted into the middle of the case. 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 definite token of reliability and precision, this tourbillon movement drives the display of the hours, minutes, seconds and the power reserve.

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. Vividly embodying the encounter between the automobile world and that of fine watchmaking, these two new L.U.C Engine One Tourbillon models are produced in limited series of 100 each.

More information about the first L.U.C Engine One Tourbillon unveiled in 2010.

Stunning yet effective the pen from the Classic Racing Writing Instruments Collection by Chopard glides across the paper like driving along in a smoothly running racing car. Its masterful exterior is inspired by the famous Dunlop Racing tyre-tread motif also featured on the rubber straps of Chopard’s hugely successful Mille Miglia watch collection. Its performance focused character stemming from the contrast between the purity of the precious metal and the user-friendly grip of the black rubber. This piece appeals to those who appreciate the architecture of a fine racing car, the feel of an item built for performance, as well as to connoisseurs of the rare. Proudly bearing this noble seal of excellence, the Classic Racing pen, like the legend pieces of machinery that have come before it, is built to be used and prepared to run smoothly for a journey through the world of words….

The Classic Racing pen is available in Fountain Pen and Rollerball versions plated with rose gold or platinum.

This year, Chopard is offering a lighter, yet ever exquisite version of its iconic Happy Diamonds. Visions of slender hearts or precious circles – yellow, rose or white gold circles polished or set with precious diamonds. This menagerie of luxury, all motioning together, creates the spectacle that is the famous floating diamonds. These radiantly joyful yet discreet pieces will glitter in splendour on the neck, wrist, ears or fingers of the women who are lucky enough to love them.

Suspended from a fine gold chain or a delicate silk cord, the pendants will gently caress the feminine neckline. Equally entrancing are the bracelets, earrings and subtle gold rings that support the tiny hearts or circles which capture the natural glow of the women wearing them.

The playful and mischievous “Miss Happy” jewellery pieces exude a vivacious and a contagiously joyful attitude to life. Complementing women of every age and lending a brilliantly refined and elegant touch.

Discover more “Miss Happy” pieces on www.chopard.com

The first Mille Miglia watch was presented in 1988, marking the birth of one of the most iconic watch collections from the House of Chopard. Since then, every year at the time of the race, collectors and enthusiasts eagerly await the launch of the “new” Mille Miglia. The successive models enchant admirers by their innovative design and the materials used in making them. Like classic cars, Chopard watches embody fine craftsmanship through exceptional mechanisms and outstanding performances. Aptly named Racing in Pink, the newcomer to the Mille Miglia line immediately sets the tone: joy and femininity are the order of the day! In revisiting the myth, the latest addition to the collection highlights charm and originality while remaining true to the very essence of Mille Miglia models: a decidedly sporting appearance combined with tried and trusted precision.

Equipped with a steel case as generously sized as that of its masculine alter ego (44 mm in diameter), this new monochrome model brings a fanciful yet controlled touch to the Mille Miglia collection. Whoever said women have no place in motor sports? While delightfully flashy and resolutely feminine thanks to its varnished pink dial, the Mille Miglia Racing in Pink nonetheless faithfully reflects the world that inspired it through a variety of nods to the racing theme. These include maintaining the collection’s signature features such as the red colour of the central sweep-seconds hands and the minute markings, along with the famous red and white arrow-shaped Mille Miglia emblem.

Every inch as technically impeccable as its illustrious predecessors, the Mille Miglia Racing in Pink is water-resistant to 100 metres. It houses a mechanical self-winding movement visible through the open case-back and beating at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour. Chronometer-certified by the COSC, this calibre has a 46-hour power reserve and drives the hour, minute, seconds and date functions.

A Chopard Boutique and Corner exclusivity, the Mille Miglia Racing in Pink steel watch is issued in a limited edition of 1,000, and a version with a diamond-set bezel is also available in a 250-piece limited series.

The new Ice Cube rings feature an extremely pure design entirely in tune with the times. While the geometrical spirit is still strongly present, the sheer finesse and majesty of the materials – white, rose or yellow gold and diamonds – are asserted in a gentle yet unmistakably firm manner. The mini cubes form a single row lovingly winding around the finger. These jewellery items are so smooth and light that one can easily forget them and thus further they are gracing you fingers, day after day.

Available in the three colours of gold, the new Ice Cube rings come in polished, gem-set or partially gem-set versions. According to the mood of the moment or the occasion, the wearer will choose to slide one, two or three of them onto the ring finger, teaming them with others to create resolutely cool and fresh jewellery that is intensely personal and timelessly unique.

Bright red is the vivid shade adorning the dial of the new Mille Miglia model from Chopard, named GT XL Chrono Rosso Corsa in reference to the “racing colours” sported by cars taking part in motor races until the late 1960s. This year the spotlight is on Italy and its famous “Rosso Corsa” before other Mille Miglia “Racing Colours” will later take this colour to the road. This extremely sporting and sophisticated watch is inspired by the legendary Mille Miglia car rally, with its Brescia-Rome-Brescia route which annually attracts the cream of classic racing cars, and which has been partnered by Chopard since 1988. The origin of “racing colours” dates back to the Gordon Bennett Cup, the famous car race that involved competing national teams from 1900 onwards. This sparked the emergence of “Vintage Blue” for France and “Rosso Corsa” for Italy, followed by “British Racing Green”, “Speed Yellow” for Belgium and “Silver Racing” for Germany.

The new Mille Miglia GT Chrono Rosso Corsa features a generous 44 mm-diameter polished titanium case. Its red-varnished dial with silver-toned snailed hollowed counters echoes the colour of the stitching on the black leather strap, as well as the minute numerals transferred on the inner bezel ring. Its oversized 6 and 12 o’clock numerals transferred beneath the sapphire crystal lend an exclusive touch. Its aerodynamic titanium pushers, along with the tachometric scale engraved on the bezel, further reinforce its sporting nature. The perfect legibility of the information provided is highlighted by a sapphire crystal that is glareproofed on both sides, while the case-back is engraved with the legendary route of the Mille Miglia rally.

On terms of the mechanism, the self-winding movement chronometer-certified by the COSC beats at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour, meaning 4 Hertz. It is visible through the transparent case-back and has a 46-hour power reserve. It drives the hours, minutes, small seconds at 9 o’clock, a date window with integrated magnifying lens at 3 o’clock, as well as a chronograph with sweep-second hand, a 30-minute counter at 12 o’clock and a 12-hour counter at 6 o’clock – the latter appearing on split levels. Its case equipped with a screw-locked crown is water-resistant to 100 metres. The Mille Miglia GT XL Chrono Rosso Corsa is produced in a limited series of just 1,000 watches, available exclusively in Chopard Boutiques and Corners, thereby underscoring its exclusive character.

The sunny, joyful and effusive new Xtravaganza watch evokes an erupting volcano, a shining star… or perhaps a dazzling firework display! Its finely guilloché rose or white gold dial is paved with a burst of diamonds of all different sizes, as is the matching pendant. As round and bright as the daystar itself, its flamboyant rays are studded with scattered diamonds. Available in white or rose gold and in two different sizes, the glowing talisman is held by a slender double-link chain. The case of the watch echoes this theme and also comes in two sizes to suit perfectly. The case is secured seamlessly by golden lugs to an elegant black alligator leather strap. These contrasting colours further enhance the radiant brightness of the dial. The attachments and bezel may be gem-set or non-set. Its incandescent and hypnotic beauty combine to ensure that this new Xtravaganza will melt the hearts of all who bask in the warmth of its unique glow.

Blue sky and sunshine attracted thousands of spectators to see the Chopard Grand Prix, a demonstration of former Formula 1 race cars, driven by Formula 1 “legends”.

Nigel Mansell, for his first appearance at the Ennstal-Classic, piloted a 1970 Porsche 908 / 3 race prototype, while Sir Stirling Moss demonstrated a Ferrari 750 Monza race car.

Dieter Quester on the rare 1958 Borgward RS 1500 was as unique as the Tecno Formel 1, driven by the Italian Nanni Galli who was the original pilot of this car in 1972. The infernal sound of the boxer engine fascinated the numerous fans.

Maria Teresa de Filippis, the grande dame of the Formula 1, who was the first woman to participate in the race in 1948, co-piloted a Maserati 200 SI of 1955. Other stars of the motorsport history took part in the Chopard Grand Prix such as Rauno Aaltonen (Triumph TR2 Le Mans BJ 1980), Jochen Mass (Mercedes Simplex BJ 1902), Marc Surer (BMW MM Roadster BJ 1939) and Jo Ramirez (Kaimann F Super Vau BJ 1972).

The 2011 VW Race Touareg was certainly an eye-catcher for its “not being a historic race car”, but a modern participant of this years Dakar Rally. Sitting very high up, the pilot Timo Gottschalk declared that he had to be careful not to overlook the little race cars…

Two “majestic visitors” came to do the Final of the Chopard Grand Prix in a 1925 Packard: the Austrian actors Robert Palfrader and Rudi Roubinek, known as “Kaiser Robert Heinrich I.” with his adjutant “Obersthofmeister Seyffenstein” of Austria’s most popular comedy “Wir sind Kaiser”.

More information about the world’s most precious shoes

More information about the Red Carpet Collection

The history of the Chopard company, founded in 1860, has been marked by many significant moments. 1937 was one of these fundamental years, as this was when the founder’s grandson Paul-André Chopard chose to leave the Jura region where Louis-Ulysse Chopard set up his first workshop, in order to establish the brand in Geneva. It was in the latter canton that Chopard subsequently built its current success. In tribute to this historical landmark, the Manufacture first presented the L.U.C 1937 model in 2010 with its pure, understated lines embodying a significant facet of the company’s watchmaking heritage.

The L.U.C 1937 now returns in two classic and timeless versions. The first features a porcelain-type white dial with black transferred Roman numerals and minute track. The second has a satin-brushed silver-toned dial punctuated by applied rhodiumed Roman numerals and a transferred minute track. Both have Dauphine hands personalised for the L.U.C collection in rhodium or black depending on the version. The 42 mm-diameter steel case of the L.U.C 1937 Classic model is characterised by an innovative profile and timeless curves. Its screw-lock crown at 3 o’clock guarantees water resistance to 50 metres. It is adorned with a vertical satin-brushed finish on the sides, along with polished lugs and a sapphire crystal case-back.

The L.U.C 1937 Classic model beats to the rhythm of the new L.U.C Calibre 1.010 and its 28,800 vibrations per hour. This mechanical self-winding movement is chronometer-certified by the COSC and has a 60-hour power reserve. Its construction designed to achieve faultless reliability drives the hours, minutes and central seconds hands, as well as a date display through a window at 6 o’clock. It also features a stop-seconds function enabling easy and accurate time-setting. The precise and high-performance L.U.C Calibre 1.010 represents a significant landmark in the history of L.U.C movements, since its construction serves to increase production volumes and thus consolidate Chopard’s independence.

These new subtly elegant L.U.C 1937 Classic men’s watches are fitted with a black alligator leather strap lined with brown alligator leather and secured by a steel pin buckle.

More information about the L.U.C 1937 limited edition model.

The evening drew guests into the world of iconic 70’s science-fiction films and their portrayal of a distant future set in space. The night featured futuristic film projections as a back-drop for sparkling Chopard jewels, a trip past a floral sculpture of the “Planet Chopard” and many other intergalactic delights. The entire festivities took place in a marquees set up like a space ship light by a magnificent projection of a full moon.

The theme was cemented by a truly otherworldly performance by Elton John who transported all to the 70’s with a series of classic hits, before he was joined on stage by the legendary George Michael. The notes of their duet, “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” radiated from the room, with an energy that could be felt throughout the four corners of the gardens of Woodside from the pavilion where the evening was held.

Guests were overwhelmed by the performance, only just having had their palates delighted with tastes of fusion cuisine commencing with a sushi plate including lobster, foie gras and truffle, a main course of beef fillet and the finishing note of “The Planet Sweet”, a trilogy of delightful dessert favourites created for the evening.

Following the dinner, the traditional auction on behalf of the foundation took place. Several exceptional lots were on offer, including a lot resulting from the collaboration between Chopard, Gary Hume and The Elton John AIDS Foundation. The pieces donated for the lot were a Gary Hume artwork entitled “Be Firm” and an Elton John Chopard watch with the sketch “Be Firm” lacquered on the back case of the watch, a secret only to be seen by the wearer. Also on offer was the first piece of art by Raqib Shaw “Study for Narcissus” auctioned for £600,000. Two Audis R8 Spyders where auctioned for £250,000 each before one was generously put back into the auction. There was also a trip to see the work of the foundation with Sir Elton John and David Furnish to Cambodia which has become something of a tradition at the White Tie and Tiara Ball.

Another highlight was a charming Matthew Morrison who presented a unique lot: the unique chance to be part of the Glee casting with a guest appearance on the hit television show Glee. Although the £180,000 raised could also be attributed to Matthew Morrison promising a back massage to the winner.

At the end of the night, Sir Elton John and David Furnish thanked all guests for their presence and generosity, reminding them of the importance of the fight against AIDS and the important work carried out by the foundation.

The Elton John AIDS Foundation was established in 1993. It is amongst the 10 largest AIDS grant-making organisations in the world, currently managing over £23 million in programmes across 15 countries supporting thousands of men, women and children with live saving medication, as well as information, nutrition, education, shelter and support. The White Tie & Tiara Ball, now in its 13^th year, is the EJAF’s foremost fundraising event, generating some £45 million since its launch in 1998.

For more information about the charity and its work, please visit www.ejaf.com

The annual White Tie & Tiara Ball’s purpose is to raise money for the Elton John AIDS Foundation. Caroline Gruosi-Scheufele, Co-President of Chopard, and Sir Elton John met in 2000, at the Cannes Film Festival. This encounter, along with their shared determination to devote their energy and their talent to the fight against AIDS, has given rise to a unique watch collection dedicated to the artist’s Foundation, as well as to a beautiful friendship between Sir Elton John, David Furnish and Caroline Gruosi-Scheufele. In addition to watches, Chopard’s support is expressed through all kinds of events, such as the annual White Tie & Tiara Ball, or the famous Elton John AIDS Foundation Oscars Viewing Party held in Los Angeles after the award ceremony.

Elton John designed watches have enjoyed tremendous success ever since they were launched. A large diameter, an imposing stature, precious stones… The Elton John designed chronograph – which comes in limited and numbered series – is entirely on trend and combines all the qualities of a classic model. Jointly designed by Caroline Gruosi-Scheufele and Sir Elton John, the timepiece reflects the singer’s personality and his love of watches. A percentage of the profits from the sale of Elton John watches are donated to the fight against AIDS.

Featuring black, brown or pink alligator leather straps, the Elton John Watch Collection models boast a myriad of the precious gems of which Sir Elton John himself is so famously fond. Playful diamonds appear either alone or harmoniously combined with sapphires, rubies and emeralds, or even colourful yellow, pink or black diamonds. The dial comes either in a tone matching the gems set around it or in a white or grey-rosé mother-of-pearl version.  For those preferring simplicity, the case and dial also come in plain white or rose gold variations. The Elton John designed chronograph also has impressive technical abilities thanks to the self-winding movement.

For more information about The Elton John AIDS Foundation visit www.ejaf.com

More information about the Elton John Watch Collection by Chopard

]]> http://diary.chopard.com/the-elton-john-watch-collection-by-chopard/feed 0 http://diary.chopard.com/l-u-c-chopard-classic-rally-in-moscow http://diary.chopard.com/l-u-c-chopard-classic-rally-in-moscow#comments Tue, 21 Jun 2011 09:53:28 +0000 admin http://diary.chopard.com/?p=2599 Continue reading →]]> On May 22^nd 2011, the annual L.U.C Chopard Classic Weekend Rally took place in Moscow for the 9^th consecutive year. Spring Moscow looked forward to this not only traditional, but legendary event. 120 oldtimers followed the itinerary from Tretyakovsky Proezd to Barvikha Luxury Village. The oldest participant of the event was a Bentley Tourer manufactured in 1929.

An elaborate decoded 3-hour itinerary was worked out for the contestants. The sun was shining brightly cheering up the participants and the guests of L.U.C Chopard Classic Weekend Rally 2011. Windless sunny weather favored the crews, but heavy Moscow traffic proved to be a serious obstacle, and the struggle for the main prize – L.U.C Chopard chronometers – turned out truly spectacular.

The guests and supporters were greeting the arriving teams at the finish in Barvikha Luxury Village and observed the exhibition of L.U.C Chopard chronometers with keen interest.

Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, Chopard Co-President, took part in the rally with his father, Karl Scheufele, Chairman of Chopard. He later announced on stage the results of the rally. He handed L.U.C Chopard chronometers to the winners in two categories: in the “Veteran” (for the automobiles manufactured before 1941) and the “Absolut” (for the ones produced from 1941 to 1969) nominations. There were three prize-winning teams in each nomination.

A romantic piece, this delightfully summery version dares to think pink right through to the smallest details: from the bezel set with pink sapphires, to the rosé mother-of-pearl dial and with a matching satin strap! Adding to the charm and refinement of this precious timepiece, a delicately contoured rose appears against the dial background, while mobile diamonds and pink sapphires dance like dewdrops across its petals. One is almost tempted to lean in and inhale the fragrance of this flower, which unlike the rose sung by the French poet Ronsard, will never lose its radiant beauty – a fact that “sweethearts” around the world will appreciate. As exquisite to gaze upon as it is to wear. “La vie en rose” also comes with a gem-set rose gold bezel or a non-set bezel.

Happy Sport La vie en rose – 250-piece limited edition – Boutique exclusivity

36 mm watch in 18-carat rose gold, bezel in 18-carat rose gold set with pink sapphires, pink mother of pearl dial with rose design, 4 mobile diamonds, 3 mobile pink sapphires, 1 pink sapphire set on crown, water-resistant to 30 metres, quartz movement. Pink satin strap with 18-carat rose gold pin buckle. Ref. 277471-5015

Happy Sport La vie en rose – 250-piece limited edition – Boutique exclusivity

36 mm watch in stainless steel, bezel in stainless steel set with pink sapphires, pink mother of pearl dial with rose design, 4 mobile diamonds, 3 mobile pink sapphires, 1 pink sapphire set on crown, water-resistant to 30 metres, quartz movement. Pink satin strap. Ref. 278475-3030

Happy Sport La vie en rose – 25-piece limited edition – Boutique exclusivity

36 mm watch in 18-carat rose gold and white gold, set with white and pinks diamonds, white mother of pearl dial with rose design set with diamonds, 4 mobile diamonds, 3 mobile pink diamonds, 1 pink diamond set on crown, water-resistant to 30 metres, quartz movement. Pink satin strap with 18-carat white gold pin buckle set with diamonds. Ref. 277480-9001

IGOTT-2, the PuristSPro’s 10^th anniversary event, took place May 30^th through June 1^st in Las Vegas and brought together the industry’s most distinguished brands, independent watchmakers and personalities for three full days of exclusive presentations, discussions, and events to celebrate the art of fine watchmaking.

On May 31^st, Purists were taken on a Chopard go-karting excursion and had the opportunity to race with Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, Co-President of Chopard. Participants raced in three heats vying to make it to the finals. The top ten drivers competed in the final round and, after several arduous laps, Karl-Friedrich Scheufele and Marc Hruschka, President and CEO of Chopard USA, awarded the top three winners with pieces from Chopard’s Classic Racing accessories collection.

Later in the afternoon participants were given an educational overview of Chopard’s L.U.C Manufacture via a 15 year retrospective exhibit showcasing the 9 distinct families of calibers, comprised of a total of 50 different variations that have been developed entirely in-house since the Manufacture’s founding in 1996. About 4,000 watch movements are made each year within Chopard’s L.U.C Manufacture.

Karl-Friedrich Scheufele then hosted an enlightening and engaging discussion entitled, “What is a Purist’S watch?” whilst also giving participants exclusive insight to the latest developments at the Manufacture. To bring the memorable day to an end, Chopard hosted a private cocktail reception and dinner in the Ferrari dealership at the Wynn Hotel. On display were historical and current cars as well as Chopard’s exceptional timepieces from the L.U.C and Classic Racing Collections, marrying the House’s ongoing passion for cars and timepieces in a unique environment.

“Devotees of fine automobiles tend to have a weakness for beautiful timepieces, and vice versa. In both cases, sporting elegance and the quest for performance play a decisive role. Lifting the hood of a car provides an understanding of what is going on inside the engine, and the same goes for horological mechanisms that may be admired through a watch case-back.” – Karl-Friedrich Scheufele

Pictured above, from left, are Mr. Bill Nash, Dr. Thomas Mao (PuristSPro founder), Mr. Karl-Friedrich Scheufele and Dr. Melvyn Teillol-Foo.

About PuristSPro

An online community for watch enthusiasts, PuristSPro is the place to discuss, explore and gather information on the worlds most prestigious and luxurious watch brands. Composed of a dedicated team of moderators, enthusiasts and collectors, the PuristSPro community reports and reviews on industry leaders via forums and online discussions. This established community of connoisseurs, collectors, and professionals is a place of passion, information and opinion for the public to explore and gather insight into the luxury watch industry.

TimeCrafters brought together watch connoisseurs, collectors, and the public alike to celebrate the art and science of watchmaking and its rich history dating back to the 13^th century. The event was a place to share passions for international timepieces in a unique and ultra-luxurious environment.

Chopard is one of the rare Houses that develops and produces its own movements and watches completely in-house at Chopard’s L.U.C Manufacture in Fleurier. Passion and innovation are the hallmarks of Chopard’s philosophy, reflected in each unique creation of the L.U.C collection. From the inside out, each timepiece is the ultimate expression of beauty and the peak of the watchmaking art.

This year, Chopard is celebrating Time-Honoured Crafts. Within the company there are over 30 different types of craftsmen including: balance-spring fitter, complications watchmaker, electroplater, gem-setter, and gold-caster.

TimeCrafters

The exhibition, organized by Editions Temps International, the leading European publisher of supplements in the international watch sector, was designed to educate and enlighten the public about fine watchmaking. Additionally, an exhibit curated by the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie was on display and illustrated the origins and development of the art and science of watchmaking. TimeCrafters is the only event of its kind in the U.S. to grant the public access to the world’s most prestigious watchmakers.

The Foundation de la Haute Horlogerie

The Foundation de la Haute Horlogerie (FHH) was created to actively promote the heritage and values of technical and precious fine watchmaking throughout the world. FHH unveiled the first event in the United States at TimeCrafters. The foundation curated an original exhibition titled, Mechanical Horology from Its Origins to the Present Day which chronicled the history of mechanical time measurement and showcased 60 time pieces. The historical exhibit illustrated the origins and development of watchmaking and featured three watchmakers to give viewers insight into the technicalities of watchmaking. As a partner of the FHH, Chopard loaned 1 historic watch and 1 contemporary watch for the exhibit.

A new Boutique concept was introduced in 2007, with the opening of a flagship store in New York, 709 Madison Avenue. Based on the idea that Chopard represents a blend of century old family tradition and high-tech creations, renowned French architect Thierry Despont reinterpreted the design codes in a contemporary style. Born in France and trained in Paris, with an additional degree from Harvard University, Thierry Despont is a master architect and designer. Mr. Despont was Associate Architect for the Centennial Restoration of the Statue of Liberty, and designed the Decorative Arts galleries of the new J. Paul Getty Museum in Los Angeles, as well as the renovation of Claridge’s hotel in London.

The fundamental spirit – a boutique reminiscent of a beautiful home – has been maintained with a fresh approach that is true to the brand’s DNA and history but remains innovative. The use of white oak and fine leather for the wall panels, store fixtures and furniture fronts evoke a sense of luxury, warmth and familiarity. Luscious velvet is used for the curtains and upholstery of chairs for a sense of opulence, beautifully complemented by the fireplace made of marfil for an authentic touch. Eliminating the destruction of trees, renewable woods are beign used under this Boutique concept.

The Geneva-based company takes great pride in creating high-precision timepieces and luxurious jewels that embody imaginative design and sophisticated elegance. Mr. Thierry Despont’s Boutique concept is the perfect stage upon which to view Chopard’s collections, now and in the years to come.

This successful new concept has now been applied to the Chopard Boutique in Vienna. We kindly invite you to the redesigned Boutique in order to discover the latest collections. A friendly in-house customer service team is available to help you with additional product information. You can find the full address on Chopard’s Store Locator.

The world’s most glamorous festival provides Chopard with an opportunity to unveil some of its most brilliant creations, to the delight of both the stars that wear them and the public that admires them. Inspired by actresses and deliberately varied, the pieces in the Red Carpet Collection reflect a wide range of hopes and expectations. Whether elaborate compositions or elegant yet simple designs, these adornments radiate discreet luxury and exuberant elegance. The creations portray an infinite spectrum of forms and styles, often combining fine stones and precious gems within the same setting. Eager to offer the best of its expertise, Chopard draws upon the full measure of its diverse talents as well as on its long-established experience, mingling time-honoured gestures, cutting-edge technologies and well-documented research, while taking its taste for excellence and novelty to ever greater heights.

As a regular on the red carpet in Cannes for almost 15 years, Caroline Gruosi-Scheufele is well acquainted with the frenzy surrounding the famous festival staircase, and the tremendous impact of the vision of stars shown around the word during this magical ritual. Having developed friendships with many of these glamorous ladies, she also knows how important this moment is to them, as well as the type of jewellery they dream of wearing. Which is exactly why each year, in cooperation with the Design department, she does her utmost to dream up original unique pieces, so that each festival participant – regardless of the wearer being a legendary star or an up-and-coming actress – will find exactly the jewellery that best fits her personality and will highlight her beauty in a unique way.

The innovative and poetic Red Carpet 2011 collection is an ode to the beginnings of springtime. The bright, often striking tones, and the fresh charm of these creations vibrantly illustrate the exuberant awakening of mother nature after her long slumber. Exuding visions of flower-dotted fields, fruit to be savoured hanging lustrously from branches and glistening in the sunlight: colour is the star of this Red Carpet show! Splendid shades of green – peridots, tsavorites and emeralds – evoke the transformation of the seasons, a year pulsating with new life, while the silvery glow of moon stones and the sparkling white of diamonds evoke the waterfalls and flowing mountain streams one comes across while rambling on a sunny day in the countryside or the mountains. The collection’s key pieces include a necklace and earrings set in emeralds and heart-cut diamonds that immediately catch the gaze. Like vines or slender ivy garlands, this stunning creation appears to be entwined around the neck. The dark green of the emeralds acquires an even deeper and more mysterious aura through its close encounter with diamonds. Gems are seen to gently caress the skin like fluttering leaves. The earrings, composed of a double drop bead, create the illusion of an all-emerald outline with a diamond shadow, as if the sunrays were constantly playing across the delightful creation.

Discover the complete Red Carpet Collection on Chopard.com/Cannes2011.

Official partner of the Cannes Film Festival, Chopard has joined forces this year with Italian shoe designer Giuseppe Zanotti in creating a unique pair of shoes. On May 19th, the world’s most precious shoes were presented by gorgeous top model Anja Rubik before being auctioned at the traditional AmFAR – Cinema Against AIDS benefit gala.

Chopard Co-President Caroline Gruosi-Scheufele has chosen to unite her talent with that of Italian shoe designer Giuseppe Zanotti for a one-of-a-kind creation: gem-set stilettos that will be auctioned on behalf of the fight against AIDS. “Chopard is a long-time supporter of AmFAR, and in particular of its gala in Cannes”, explains Caroline Gruosi-Scheufele. “This year, we wished to support the charity through an idea than took shape when I met Giuseppe Zanotti. His talent has inspired a project combining our respective crafts. This pair of shoes represents the expression of two artists at the peak of their profession, and a beautiful means for their future owner to support a noble cause”.

For over 15 years, Giuseppe Zanotti has been one of the most sought-after celebrity shoe designers. Famed for his jewelled pumps, his company is distinguished by its exceptional expertise that has been gradually yet continuously enriched over the years. Like Chopard and its Creative department, in order to create the models of his dreams, Zanotti has developed a full-fledged style laboratory within his workshops, surrounding himself with a host of experts including shoemakers, model makers, designers as well as numerous jewellery application specialists.

“I’ve always been passionate about jewellery and being a collector of antique pieces, I am extremely sensitive to the need for philanthropic action, which is why I was immediately drawn to the idea of this association with Chopard”, says Giuseppe Zanotti, “I have been supporting AmFAR’s activities for several years. This project also sparked new creative inspiration and gave me the means to fulfill a dream: that of creating the most precious shoes ever…”

Chopard’s emblematic sports watch has come to symbolise the world’s most famous classic car rally, the Millie Miglia. The Mille Miglia Watch remains loyal to the annual event that has made it a classic in the field of luxury watchmaking. Immediately recognisable thanks to its natural rubber strap echoing the 1960s Dunlop Racing tyre-tread motif, it appears in 2011 in a 44 mm-diameter steel or 18-carat rose gold case housing a self-winding chronograph movement chronometer-certified by the COSC.

The strength of true classics is that they simply will never age, provided they are perpetually reinvented. The Mille Miglia watch, an iconic sports watch since 1988 when Choaprd began its partnership with this legendary race, has become one of the great watchmaking legends.

An iconic design

The 2011 model is certainly a match for the reputation established by its illustrious predecessors. A powerful design combined with sterling technical qualities make this yet another great vintage. The Mille Miglia GT XL Chrono 2011 is distinguished by a generous 44 mm case in steel or 18-carat rose gold, framing a dial with a vintage-style design featuring elongated numerals that are nonetheless in tune with the spirit of the characteristic Mille Miglia numerals. The engine-turned dial finish is reminiscent of vintage sports car dashboards, while its black colour lends a resolutely contemporary touch that beautifully highlights the silver-toned snailed and hollowed counters at 12, 6 and 9 o’clock. The minute circle appears in black and red – a nod to the colour of the race that annually attracts the finest classic cars to the route running from Brescia to Rome.

The case of the Mille Miglia GT XL Chrono 2011 is water-resistant to 100 metres and fitted with a bezel bearing a tachometric scale, as well as a screw-lock crown adorned with the famous Mille Miglia arrow and broad chronograph pushers. The arrow symbol also appears in the centre of the transparent case-back, along with the inscriptions Limited Edition and Brescia-Rome-Brescia. The overall readability is further improved by glareproofed sapphire crystals on both sides of the watch.

Technically irreproachable

The Mille Miglia GT XL Chrono 2011 is equally impeccable from a technical standpoint. Its mechanical self-winding movement beating at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour is visible through the transparent case-back. Chronometer-certified by the COSC, it features a 46-hour power reserve and drives the hour,

minute, date, small seconds functions, as well as the chronograph with its central seconds hand, and its 30-minute and 12-hour counters. It is also equipped with a stop seconds mechanism enabling time-setting to the nearest second.

A limited edition for collectors

The Mille Miglia GT XL Chrono 2011 is available in a steel 2,011-piece limited edition or in a 250-piece limited 18-carat rose gold version. It is fitted with a new integrated strap in natural rubber echoing the design of the famous 1960s Dunlop Racing tyres. The 2011 vintage will once again be sought-after by collectors around the world….

Discover the new Mille Miglia watch on www.chopard.com/1000miglia

More information about the race on www.1000miglia.eu

• The most audacious (and very dangerous) car award:

Car number 188, with the Aston Martin DB3S of 1953, which drivers almost caused me to crash my car a couple times.

• The James Dean award:

There were a lot of Porsche 550 in this race, by far my favorite car, but one team really managed to distinguish their car from the rest : car number 243!

• The best looking car:

I want to congratulate the drivers from the car number 193 with their Jaguar C-Type that always had the courage to end their day by cleaning their car by hand with mineral water.

After the euphoria of the finish line comes a tumbling exhaustion. Thankfully a member of Chopard showed me the final way to the Palazzo Arzaga into the dark and sinuous countryside roads. I just followed him in autopilot mode since my brain was almost shutdown.

When entering my hotel room I also discovered that I made an amateur mistake… My left arm was way more tanned by the sun that the right one. How chic!

Finally, I enjoyed sleeping more than 4 hours straight, which didn’t happen since the beginning of the race. I think all the drivers would agree that a bed didn’t feel as confortable in their life.

As the German driver of the 318 explained to me when his car broke down, most of the classic car failures are linked to the oil. Bad quality or too little can overheat the engine, create leaks, infiltrate with the gas and therefore lose power.

We are 6 hours away from the finish line and you can now feel the pilots are now racing more than ever. Forget the speed cameras, the traffic, the red lights… It’s all about getting in time to Brescia. And I may have lost some points on my driving license trying to follow them!

2 hours left before the finish line at the quiet city of Maranello. Cars line up to the checkpoint before having a blast on the circuit.

A partner of the Cannes International Film Festival since 1998, Chopard signalled its commitment to the septième art in 2001 by creating an award intended to honour the up-and-coming generation of the international movie world. At each edition of the Festival, the Chopard Trophy rewards the talent of two young actors. Many talented performers who have since achieved widespread recognition, such as Marion Cotillard, Jonathan Rhys-Meyers, Diane Kruger and Gael Garcia-Bernal, have thus been distinguished by Chopard. This year, the Geneva-based jeweller was particularly proud to be celebrating its award’s 10th anniversary in the company of Robert De Niro. The actor, who serves as President of the Jury of the 64th Cannes Film Festival, was also the patron of the 11th edition of the Trophée Chopard ceremony.

Awarded for the first time in 2001, the Trophée Chopard’s aim is to foster new talents by recognising them as Best Young Actor and Actress of the Year. Born from Caroline Gruosi-Scheufele’s passion for the world of cinema, this award, in partnership with Première magazine, is supported by the President of the Festival, Gilles Jacob.

As precious to receive as to admire, the Trophée Chopard is in itself a genuine architectural gem. The golden reel of film, finely crafted by Chopard’s master jewellers, was created by Caroline Gruosi-Scheufele, Co-President and Creative Director for Chopard. A long-time film enthusiast, she reflects upon her decision to support such an event: “The art of cinema has always been one of my passions. There is fabulous synergy between our two worlds: the creation of magnificent jewellery on one hand, and unforgettable films on the other”. It is certainly true that Chopard and the world of movies are engaged in an enduring love story worthy of the silver screen. Symbols of absolute glamour and expressions of dreams and emotions, jewellery, films and stars are all part of the same enchanting world, a sphere beyond the reach of time in which beauty, luxury and talent top the bill. Adulated for its original and refined creations that highlight feminine beauty, Chopard is well accustomed to red carpets the world over. Whether at the Oscars, Baftas or other glittering venues, the luxury company is a guest of honour at the world’s most prestigious movie events.

This year the laureates have been chosen by a jury of film professionals composed of actress Marisa Berenson, director Claude Lelouch, producer Takis Candilis, along with Mathieu Carratier, Chief Editor of Première magazine, and Caroline Gruosi-Scheufele.

This ceremony, one of the most prestigious of the Cannes Film Festival, once again attracted many of the great names in the movie industry. The event was all the more popular in that it marked an important anniversary, and the prize-giving was followed by an exclusive evening held at the Chopard Lounge.

Enjoy Chopard’s exclusive invitation to relive last night’s prize-giving ceremony of the Trophée Chopard and admire the new laureates of the prestigious annual distinction awarded at the Cannes International Film Festival.

At 1 p.m. and the temperature is around 32°C as we enter San Marino. As the pilot of the Ferrari explains to me, once your car has been driven intensely and the engine is hot, it is very hard to start it again. A difficult choice when the drivers start queuing: stop the engine and take the chance or let the car overheat a little?

I didn’t expect to see snow in the middle of May, but it only took a 30-minute ride up in the mountains to find it. A great playground for propulsion cars.

Almost 11 p.m. and most of the drivers like me have been up since 6 a.m. What a great relief to arrive at the Stadio Olimpico.

When you hear “benzina, benzina!!” from a driver a few minutes away from the starting line, every-one gets their hands dirty to fix the leak. Even when the mechanic is part of the opponent team… That’s the spirit.

The race started yesterday in the center of Brescia blessed by a nice sunset. It’s now my turn to take the wheel and try to find their checkpoints on this awesome roadmap.

> Discover our photostream of the race on Flickr

During the 2011 Mille Miglia race (May 12th-15th), Chopard is delighted to announce that Brian Leavy, co-founder of Materialiste.com, will be following the race for the brand. The idea is to provide Chopard enthusiasts with live insights on the race and its atmosphere. From the start of the race at Brescia to the theatrical stage in Rome and through to the presentation of the winner, experience the event from the inside!

Several articles, pictures and films will be posted on the Mille Miglia website (www.chopard.com/millemiglia) as well as on the Chopard social media platforms such as the Diary (http://diary.chopard.com) and the Facebook profile.

Dedicated to masculine elegance, Materialiste.com pens insights on the themes of luxury, fashion and the art of living, whilst dealing with a common pursuit: that of beauty.

As a classic car enthusiast for many years – he owns a Triumph Spitfire MK3 SE –, Brian has always dreamed of meeting Steve McQueen or Jacky Ickx. Today, this dream takes on a whole new dimension during the most beautiful car race in the world, the Mille Miglia.

Follow him on www.chopard.com/millemiglia

The Drive

The California Mille race began on April 25^th at 8:30am, departing from Mason Street in San Francisco. The drivers spent the morning passing through key points such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Mt. Tamalapais, and the Infineon Raceway in Petaluma. After spending the afternoon on Highways 116, 121, and 29, the drivers finished the first day at the Solage Calistoga. On Day Two, drivers made their way through Geyserville, Lake Sonoma, Skaggs Springs Road, Highway 1, Highway 128, Cloverdale, Asti Road, and back to Calistoga. On the third day, the drivers traveled along the Silverado Trail and took laps at Thunderill Race Track. The race path took them along Highway 162 and 206, Danley Road, Freshwater, and Highway 20 with a return trip back to the Solage Calistoga. The concluding day featured a route through Mill Valley, which was renamed “Mille Valley” for the day, and ended in Sonoma with a final banquet and awards dinner at the Lodge at Sonoma. Throughout the race, the drivers make lavish pit stops that included dining at world-renowned restaurants, staying at luxurious hotels, and a visit to a private Mercedes-Benz collection, considered to rival the carmaker’s own collection in Stuttgart, Germany.

Chopard and the Mille Miglia Watch Collection

Passionate about vintage cars, Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, Co-President of Chopard, has been playing an active part in the Mille Miglia since 1988, when Chopard supported this event for the first time. Scheufele has twin passions for classic cars and fine watchmaking, and has a remarkable personal collection of cars including many pre-war and post-war English and German makes. In his words: “Lovers of fine automobiles are said to have a weakness for precious timekeepers and vice versa. In both domains, extreme precision and sporting elegance play an important role”. Lifting the hood of a car provides an understanding of what is going on inside the engine, and the same goes for horological mechanisms that may be admired through a watch case-back. Chopard and Classic Car Racing have thus become synonymous, giving rise to a collection of Mille Miglia watches which represent elegance and high performance needed in both the watch and classic car race industries. To commemorate The California Mille 2011 event, Chopard created a Mille Miglia Gran Turismo XL watch featuring the logo of the California Mille 2011 race, available exclusively to participants of the California Mille. Five watches were presented to five extraordinary drivers, selected by the Mille mechanics and crew.

The Mille Miglia Gran Turismo XL Power Control radiates a powerful character, including through a dial playing on contrasts to reveal its dynamic nature. The oversized “12” numeral is counterbalanced by the semi-circular power reserve display at 6 o’clock. Exactly like a petrol gauge, the percentage indicator features a red zone below 20%, designed to remind its wearer that the mechanism requires a new input of energy. At the heart of this ‘speed machine’ lies the largest mechanical movement on the market, chronometer-certified by the COSC.

To play and try to win go to www.chopard.com/millemiglia

Come discover the feminine magic of Chopard’s timeless jewels and fine watches. You can find full coordinates of points of sales on Chopard’s Store Locator.

Happy Hearts earrings, ring and bracelet in 18-carat rose gold with moving diamond

During this commemoration of haute horology for timepiece collectors and connoisseurs, Chopard’s in-house watchmaker from Fleurier gave live demonstrations on the art of Haute Horlogerie at the New York Flagship on 709 Madison Avenue.

Watch aficionado’s also found a retrospective installation documenting 15 years of Chopard’s L.U.C Manufacture, where an achievement of 50 in-house calibers could be viewed.

Additionally, Chopard was pleased to debut an outstanding clock created by Jean Kazes, a famous and highly-skilled clockmaker living in Switzerland. This sculptural and artistic timekeeper is a spectacular work of horological art made exclusively for the New York flagship Boutique.

Lastly, visitors had the opportunity to view new introductions from the L.U.C Collection recently unveiled at Basel.

Chopard is one of the rare Houses that develops and produces its own movements and watches completely in-house at Chopard’s L.U.C Manufacture in Fleurier. Passion and innovation are the hallmarks of Chopard’s philosophy, reflected in each unique creation of the L.U.C collection. From the inside out, each timepiece is the ultimate expression of beauty and the peak of watchmaking art.

This year, Chopard is celebrating Time-Honoured Crafts. Within the company there are over 30 different types of craftsmen including: balance-spring fitter, complications watchmaker, electroplater, gem-setter, and gold-caster.

Visit Chopard’s dedicated website for information about all the new models, and join Chopard on Facebook to get an exclusive glimpse of what went on inside Chopard’s booth at BASELWORLD 2011.

www.chopard.com/baselworld2011

www.facebook.com/chopard

Happy Spirit Elixir d’Amour reveals the love story between a precious jasmine heart enlightened by delightful delicate floral touches, and the ambery and musky notes of cashmere wood.

This sparkling floral bouquet comes in a beautiful flacon. Two hearts encounter and unite linked together by a transparent intense ruby ribbon. A unique harmony is born…

Representing a perfect blend of beauty, radiance and mystery, the diamond is the most mythical of all precious stones. And when it embodies such exceptional qualities as this 85.28-carat stone, it naturally enters the hallowed circles of truly extraordinary gems. The extreme limpidity, whiteness and clarity of the stone acquired by the jeweller place it in the IIA class, an extremely rare and pure category accounting for approximately 1% of all diamonds. Stones of such perfection and such size historically originate from the Indian mines of Golconda, which were indeed the only known diamond mines until the 19^th century. Renowned for their perfect white colour, their distinctive lustre and their transparency, Golconda diamonds are among the most sought-after and celebrated in the world.

Endowed with the same assets as these gemstones that have enjoyed a historical destiny, the diamond unveiled by Chopard is already unleashing passions, including that of Caroline Gruosi-Scheufele, Co-President of the House and Creative Director, who confides: “I love gems. I have seen a lot of them in my career, but the beauty of this particular one surpasses most others, and it is truly exceptional.” This natural-born designer constantly travels the globe in search of the finest stones. She then draws inspiration from her numerous journeys and encounters in order to transcend and exalt, with the help of the designers in the High Jewellery department, the priceless treasures she brings back with her. We can safely state that this fabulous 85-carat diamond will once again enable her to express the full scope of her talent.

Calling upon the creativity, sensitivity and expertise of all members of the production team, who exercise a range of skills developed and mastered within the Chopard workshops over the years, creating a piece of jewellery around this incomparable stone represents a substantial challenge. But nothing can resist the peerless experience and dexterity of the in-house artisans. This gem, however precious and imposing, will be tamed by the jewellers’ expert fingers and thus lend itself to being transformed into the most dazzling of creations.

On Sunday February 27^th 2011, the stars strode the red carpet of the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood where the 83^rd Annual Academy Awards Ceremony took place, offering a spectacular parade of charm and elegance. Clothed in their stunning evening gowns and tuxedoes and sparkling in Chopard jewellery and watches as the flashbulbs popped all around them. This year, the men stole the spotlight from the ladies, since they decided, just like their female colleagues, to wear some of the most remarkable creations from the Geneva-based brand. In an ultimate token of refinement, Chopard watches and cufflinks added a refined touch to their formal evening attire. Winner of the 2011 Academy Award for Best Actor for his performance in The King’s Speech, Colin Firth wore a L.U.C XPS watch featuring a black dial set in white gold. Chopard creations meet with universal approval, making it the only company to have consecutively adorned 9 – Academy Award winning actresses and actors. Could it be that the Swiss watchmaker-jeweller spells luck for movie stars?

Actresses and actors who won wearing Chopard: The Retrospective

2004 – Charlize Theron, Best Actress, Monster

2005 – Hilary Swank, Best Actress, Million Dollar Baby

2006 – Rachel Weisz, Best Supporting Actress, The Constant Gardener

2007 – Helen Mirren, Best Actress, The Queen

2008 – Marion Cotillard, Best Actress, La Vie en Rose

2009 – Kate Winslet, Best Actress, The Reader

2009 – Penelope Cruz, Best Supporting Actress, Vicky Cristina Barcelona

2010 – Mo’Nique, Best Supporting Actress, Precious

2011 – Colin Firth, Best Actor, The King’s Speech

Happy Heart watch

To be sure not to miss the 12 strokes of midnight and to see their carriage turn back into a pumpkin, modern-day Cinderellas have found the indispensable accessory: a Happy Heart watch in a “tender pledges” version. The white rubber strap is marked with the symbol of love, while one of the three diamonds spinning around the dial is clasped in the gentle embrace of a white gold heart. A romantic yet subtle way of showing that one both loves and is loved…

Happy Diamonds, for an exceptional rendezvous

Designed for grand occasions, the flamboyant Happy Diamonds pendant set with a triple row of diamonds shines with full radiance when nestling in an exquisitely plunging neckline. Its brilliant captive diamonds flutter in harmony with the loving heart just beneath.

Very Chopard jewellery, featuring sophisticated reinterpretations of the legendary Happy Diamonds collection, will turn the heads of many Valentines. Rings, pendants and earrings highlight a heart with a distinctive cone-shaped curve. This highly innovative design is particularly suited to the captive brilliant-cut gems. Held within a capsule featuring walls lined with mirrors or diamonds, as if set free within a dazzling sunbeam, the diamonds are brighter and livelier than ever with their infinitely varied and playfully shimmering reflections.

More products on Chopard’s Valentine’s Day dedicated micro website: www.chopard.com/valentineday

One of the highlights of the event was a magnificent 1930 Alfa Romeo 6C-1750 Gran Sport Spyder first driven by Luigi Scarfiotti for the Scuderia Ferrari during the 1930 Mille Miglia.

Mr. Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, Co-President of Chopard, was delighted to support an event dedicated to one of his own passions. “Naturally the classic cars that make up my personal collection have been a perpetual source of inspiration for the watches created by Chopard. The shared attributes between these two universes – graceful lines, refinement of finish, mechanical excellence and traditional craftsmanship blend together harmoniously.”

More information on www.bonhams.com/eur/carsgrandpalais

Whether in Paris, Dubai, London or Tokyo, the pleasure of delicate flavours and that of the time taken to relish them have met and mingled in these ultimate expressions of the culinary art. Exceptional timepieces, timeless expertise and constant innovations: such are the ingredients that make Chopard a multi-facetted House that is transcended by the passion of its leaders.

For Chopard Co-President Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, “combining high gastronomy and fine horology makes complete sense. There are many similarities between our two worlds: the accuracy demonstrated by the great chefs in their cuisine certainly matches that of our master-watchmakers.” These long cultivated passions have now given rise to a series of dinners pervaded by the art of patience and representing an anthem to a time of rituals, of celebrations, and of leisurely savouring gourmet delights.

Karl-Friedrich Scheufele with Philippe Rochat, in Lausanne

“The IMPERIALE was brilliantly interpreted by all the chefs that got involved in our concept”, said Chopard Co-President Caroline Gruosi-Scheufele. “Exactly as in our own creations, quality and creativity are essential elements in their know-how. I am impatient to see what our last diner in Tokyo has in store for us…”

Caroline Gruosi-Scheufele with Carlo Cracco, in Milan

The IMPERIALE dinners by Chopard will be immortalised in a publication revealing behind-the-scenes details of the world’s finest chefs. This collector’s portfolio created by Stiletto Editions from Paris will celebrate this horological and gourmet journey through time by offering an immersion into the distinctive cuisines and unique recipes of chefs, pervaded by the twin themes of temporal beauty and perfect good taste. Throughout the pages of this splendid art book, IMPERIALE watches will serve as majestic witnesses to this original story of mingled passions, ultimate flavours and transcendent moments…

Discover the seven chefs, their rare dishes from around the world and images of the outstanding dinners held in an atmosphere beyond the reach of time on www.chopard.com/imperiale.

This collection comprises 15 different models featuring an original design and testifying to Chopard’s legendary inventiveness and expertise in the twin fields of fine jewellery and watchmaking.

More information on the Animal World watch collection

We kindly invite you to the new boutique in order to discover our latest collections. You can find the full address on Chopard’s Store Locator.

The 22^nd edition of the 1000 Millas Sport was held between November 24^th – 28^th, 2010 in the Patagonia region of Argentina’s Andes mountains. Argentina’s version of the Mille Miglia consists of 150 participants driving pre-1980 automobiles over 1000 miles of some of the most breathtaking roads in the world.

To celebrate the collaboration Chopard created the 1000 Millas Sport 2010 watch, a limited edition of 20 pieces.