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Chopard's L.U.C Grand Strike: A Symphony in Horology
Chopard Manufacture has unveiled its most sophisticated chiming timepiece to date, the L.U.C Grand Strike, commemorating three decades of exceptional craftsmanship. This horological marvel, encased in 18-carat ethical white gold, masterfully combines a grande sonnerie, petite sonnerie, and minute repeater. It boasts Chopard's pioneering sapphire crystal gongs and is the culmination of extensive research and development, representing a significant milestone in high watchmaking.
A Masterpiece of Sound and Engineering: The L.U.C Grand Strike
On November 19, 2025, Chopard introduced the L.U.C Grand Strike, a watch that redefines acoustic precision in wristwatches. This extraordinary creation, developed entirely in-house in Fleurier, is the result of over 11,000 hours of dedicated research and features ten proprietary patents, five of which were conceived specifically for this model. Certified by both the Poinçon de Genève and COSC, it stands as the most rigorously evaluated grande sonnerie in modern watchmaking. The watch's open-dial design offers a captivating view into its intricate 686-component L.U.C 08.03-L caliber, revealing its exquisite construction and meticulous finishing.
The L.U.C Grand Strike is a testament to nearly two decades of expertise in sonnerie mechanisms and ten years of innovation in sapphire monobloc technology. Its 43mm ethical white gold case houses a chiming mechanism activated by two polished steel hammers at 10 o'clock. Users can select between Grande Sonnerie, Petite Sonnerie, and Silent modes using an intuitively placed sliding switch. A 60-second tourbillon at 6 o'clock further attests to the movement's COSC-certified accuracy.
A standout feature of this timepiece is its patented sapphire crystal gongs, which are meticulously machined from a single piece along with the dial crystal. This unique construction allows for unparalleled acoustic clarity, as the gongs vibrate in perfect harmony with the dial crystal, directing the sound—tuned to a harmonious C#–F♮ interval—directly outwards. This design prevents energy loss through the movement or case, ensuring a chime of remarkable clarity and tonal purity. Nine additional patents, including five newly secured for this model, enhance the movement's functionality and security, from precise chiming cadence to safeguards against accidental mishandling.
The manual-winding L.U.C 08.03-L caliber is equipped with two mainspring barrels: one dedicated to timekeeping, providing a 70-hour power reserve, and another for the sonnerie, ensuring at least 12 hours of continuous chiming in grande sonnerie mode. Despite its complexity, the movement maintains a wearable diameter of 43mm and a thickness of 14.08mm, showcasing a remarkable feat of engineering. The movement's plates and bridges, crafted from maillechort (German silver), are designed to develop a beautiful patina over time. The L.U.C Grand Strike comes with interchangeable gray alligator and calfskin straps, both featuring an 18-carat ethical white gold folding clasp. Pricing details are available upon request.
The launch of the L.U.C Grand Strike by Chopard is not merely the introduction of a new watch; it is a profound declaration of the brand's unwavering commitment to horological innovation and artistic excellence. This masterpiece serves as a powerful reminder that true craftsmanship transcends mere functionality, intertwining mechanical brilliance with an auditory symphony. It pushes the boundaries of traditional watchmaking, encouraging us to appreciate the intricate dance between precision engineering and the timeless art of sound. This watch challenges the perception of timekeeping, transforming it into an experience that delights both the eye and the ear.