New Release
MTF announces the highly anticipated Chopard L.U.C 1860 XPS in a steel case, a Baselworld 2016 revelation that addresses long-standing collector demand. This post details the specifications and key differences from its rose gold counterpart, celebrating Chopard's decision to offer a more accessible yet equally respected version of its acclaimed L.U.C movement. It provides essential information for collectors interested in Chopard's commitment to fine watchmaking in stainless steel.
Fellow PuristS,
Recently, we announced the L.U.C XPS 1860 Geneva Seal in rose gold case to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the first L.U.C 1860 watch.
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www.watchprosite.com
For many years, many of you declared the desirability of any steel L.U.C XPS with a L.U.C movement.
Well, your prayers have been answered: L.U.C 1860 XPS steel case in unlimited production.
Our PuristS' Dreams have come true after 10 years of asking since the original L.U.C XPS was launched in 2006.
"Rules" can change.
White metal does not have to be gold.
Respect the past but Look to the future...
Don't look back...Look forward.
Yet do much less, so much less, Someone says,
(I know his name, no matter)—so much less!
Well, less is more, Lucrezia: I am judged.
-- Robert Browning; “The Faultless Painter” (1855)
Case:
• Stainless steel
• Total diameter 40.00 mm
• Thickness 7.20 mm
• Water resistance 30 metres
• 18ct stainless steel crown with L.U.C logo 5.00 mm
• Vertical satin-brushed sides and inter-horn space, polished bezel and case-back
• Glareproofed sapphire crystal
• Transparent exhibition caseback
Movement:
• Mechanical self-winding L.U.C 96.03-L
• Total diameter: 27.4 mm
• Thickness: 3.30 mm
• Number of jewels: 29
• Frequency: 28,800 vph (4 Hz)
• Power reserve 65 hours
• Two barrels - Twin® technology
• Bridges adorned with Côtes de Genève motif
• Chronometer-certified (COSC)
Dial and hands:
• Silver-toned dial, sunburst satin-brushed centre, opaline silver-toned surround
• Rhodiumed Dauphine-type hours, minutes and small seconds hands
Functions and displays:
• Central display of the hours and minutes
• Small seconds display at 6 o’clock
• Date at 6 o’clock
Strap and buckle:
• Matt black hand-sewn alligator leather strap
• Stainless steel pin buckle
Ref. 168583-3001 – Stainless Steel
Please note the 4 features that differ from the rose gold version:
1) Not Geneva Seal but at least a C.O.S.C. for chronometry.
2) No swan-neck adjustment movement rate.
3) No gold metal base for dial.
4) Silver tone dial with sunburst satin-brush and opaline
Please form an orderly queue here to get one!
Regards,
MTF
The L.U.C 1860 reference is a notable offering within the L.U.C collection, distinguished by its focus on classical watchmaking principles and refined aesthetics. This particular model, introduced at Watches and Wonders 2023, represents a continuation of Chopard's commitment to high horology, emphasizing traditional craftsmanship and a discreet presentation. It is recognized for its balanced proportions and the integration of a finely finished movement, reflecting the brand's in-house manufacturing capabilities.
This reference features a case crafted from Lucent Steel, a proprietary alloy, measuring 36.5 mm in diameter. The watch is powered by the L.U.C 96.01-L automatic movement, which is visible through a sapphire crystal case back. This movement is equipped with a micro-rotor and offers a power reserve of approximately 65 hours. The dial is presented in a salmon color, complemented by a sapphire crystal on the front.
Appealing to collectors who value understated design and mechanical integrity, the L.U.C 1860 fits into the brand's lineup as a dress watch with significant horological merit. Its limited production and specific material choices contribute to its appeal among enthusiasts seeking a watch that combines traditional watchmaking with contemporary material science. The model is a testament to Chopard's ongoing development in its L.U.C range.
What a pleasant surprise, MTF!!! You definitely kept us in the edge of our seats in anticipation of what the surprise could be, and you, alongside Chopard, did not disappoint! Kudos to Chopard! Looking forward in learning your impressions of it. Cheers, Alejandro
Such a beautiful movement in a steel case! Honest fine watchmaking if you ask me Thanks for the announcement MTF BRAVO to Chopard! Cheers Robin
And with the anniversary version, too. I\'m sure there will be decent demand for it
For a very long time I have been wondering when Chopard will case up the LUC 96 family in steel. Ever since the original 1.96 I've been wanting it in steel. The movements are lovely and I have a lot of respect for what they've accomplished. So this is long-awaited and eagerly anticipated on my part. It's not quiiiiiite perfect to my eyes, though... 1. The date aperture bugs me - if only there were a bevel into that hole for the date (see the original 1.96 for an example). At least it's at 6 o'cl
I have the Mk 1 L.U.C 1860. I Iike the 2 versions of the L.U.C 1860 XPS for different reasons. The different movements did not matter as the 200 or 300% price difference is not reflected in the difference in quality. The case finishing is the same and I like the new thinner case shape and brushed surfaces. I like the gold dial engraved to match my old watch but I prefer the more affordable grey dial as I don't have a dial like that in my collection. Regards MTF
But I'm not sure I understand your sentence "The difference movements did not matter as the 200 or 300% price difference is not reflected in the difference in quality." Are you referring to the differences in movement finishing which I mentioned? I was a huge fan of the guilloche dial in the original 1.96, btw, as well as the cartouche bearing the maker's name in script; it was one of the most elegant and beautiful dials of the last 20 years, to my eyes. The new style with the block text and the
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