Chopard L.U.C XPS Twist QF (Pictures, Specifications and Price)
The chic aura exuded by contemporary gentlemen is based on respect for rules, as well as refined transgression of the latter. With its offset small seconds appearing at 7 o’clock, a signature feature of the Twist series within the L.U.C collection, the Chopard L.U.C XPS Twist QF in ethically certified “Fairmined” white gold – issued in a 250-piece limited edition – opts for controlled eccentricity and elegant asymmetry. A slim fit on the wrist, rich textures, high-quality production and an ethical dimension: nothing is lacking here, not even a touch of extravagance.
Haute Horlogerie conventions are based on symmetry and aesthetic order that elicit an instinctive visual response. L.U.C XPS Twist QF offers another take. Like a woven cashmere necktie that reveals its underside, this timepiece has fun with the offset positions of the crown and small seconds, while incorporating all the fundamental qualities of the L.U.C collection. By taking its place within most of Chopard’s cherished certification programmes, the L.U.C XPS Twist QF displays a wealth of elegant characteristics. Fleurier Quality Foundation, chronometer certification, a case in ethically certified “Fairmined” gold: this timepiece goes the extra mile beyond aesthetic prowess to embody the most accomplished craftsmanship.
Visible L.U.C codes
Within the aesthetic vocabulary of the L.U.C collection, the textures adorning dial surfaces are invariably centred on the L.U.Chopard logo, positioned at noon. Here, the visual focal point shifts to the small seconds at 7 o’clock. The effect of literally drawing the gaze elsewhere is amplified by the circular satin-brushed motif radiating out from this subdial and across the entire blue-grey dial surface of the L.U.C XPS Twist QF. Another transgressive feature is the fact that this is the only model in the L.U.C collection without Arabic numerals at noon, since the figure 12 is replaced by a double facetted hour-marker.
The words Qualité Fleurier appear beneath the name L.U.C, the spot where the Chronometer inscription is generally placed. With this new 250-piece limited edition, Chopard is giving fresh impetus to the dynamic of the Fleurier Quality Foundation which it helped to create.
The demands of Fleurier Quality Foundation quality
The Fleurier Quality Foundation has established itself in the world of watch certification through its demanding criteria and the rigorous manner in which they are applied. Applied to the entire watch industry and currently the hardest to achieve in the Swiss watch industry, this certification involves passing five tests relating to five key qualities. Precision by ensuring that each model is submitted to the COSC. Durability and reliability by means of Chronofiable tests. Precision in actual wear by spending 24 hours on the Fleuritest simulator. Fine craftsmanship, by meeting the finishing criteria of Haute Horlogerie. And finally, manufacturing 100% performed in Switzerland.
Mechanical excellence
Calibre 96.26-L driving the 250 timepieces in the L.U.C XPS Twist QF limited edition is a variation on Calibre 96.01-L offset by 30 degrees. Like the original movement, it is distinguished by its slim 3.3 mm size, which in turn meant this new model could be housed in an exceptionally thin case. Its self-winding mechanism is powered by an engraved 22-carat gold micro-rotor the high inertia of which enables optimal efficiency. Calibre 96.26-L powers two stacked barrels based on Chopard’s patented Twin structure. Together, they guarantee 65 hours of running time, an exceptional feat for an ultra-thin timepiece, and enable this calibre to beat with chronometer-certified precision. Its finishes are also particularly sophisticated, in that the aesthetic criteria comply with the technical specifications of Fleurier Quality Foundation certification.
Chopard L.U.C XPS Twist QF
Technical specifications:
Ref. 161945-1001- in 18-carat ethically certified “Fairmined” white gold
Case:
18-carat white gold
Total diameter : 40.00 mm
Thickness: 7.70 mm
Water resistance: 30 metres
18-carat white gold crown offset at 4 o’clock with L.U.C logo: 5.00 mm
Vertical satin-brushed flanks and inter-horn spaces
Polished bezel and case-back
Glareproofed sapphire crystal
Exhibition back
Movement:
Mechanical self-winding: L.U.C 96.26-L
Number of components: 172
Total diameter: 27.40 mm
Thickness: 3.30 mm
Number of jewels: 29
Frequency: 28,800 vph (4 Hz)
Power reserve: 65 hours
Two barrels –Twin technology
Winding via a 22-carat gold winding rotor
Bridges adorned with Côtes de Genève motif
Chronometer certified (COSC)
Fleurier Quality Foundation certified (FQF)
Dial and hands:
Dial with satin-brushed sunburst motif centred on the small seconds, blue-grey galvanic treatment
Rhodium-plated Dauphine fusée-type hours and minutes hands
Rhodium-plated Dauphine fusée-type small seconds hand
Functions and displays:
Central display of the hours and minutes
Offset small seconds at 6 o’clock
Semi-instantaneous aperture-type date display
Strap and buckle:
Hand-sewn matt blue-grey plant-dyed CITES-certified alligator leather strap, with cognac-coloured alligator leather lining
18-carat white gold pin buckle
The price for the Chopard L.U.C XPS Twist QF is CHF 19,800 and is limited edition to 250 pieces.
