Chopard L.U.C Louis Ulysse The Tribute Review

amanico · 2015-05-10T07:37:45Z

Explore Amanico's hands-on review of the Chopard L.U.C Louis Ulysse The Tribute, a 49.6mm watch that converts from pocket to wristwatch.

amanico

WPS member · Chopard forum

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Amanico provides a detailed 'hands-on' review of the Chopard L.U.C Louis Ulysse The Tribute, a unique timepiece that challenges conventional notions of wearability with its dual pocket watch and wristwatch functionality. This article explores the watch's impressive dimensions and innovative cradle system, offering insights into its design and historical context.

It is now time to reveal the watch I wanted to introduce you, which was kindly brought by the Chopard Team during our Gathering on the 14th of April, at the Paris Boutique.

The L.U.C Louis Ulysse The Tribute, which you will allow me to call " The Tribute ", is a Watch which deserves to be seen in the flesh, to be judged.

Why? The most important reason is obvious, when you read the dimensions: 49, 6 mm! Most of the time, that means that the Watch is totally unwearable, which is a total no go for a true Watch Lover, in my opinion.

BUT there are two ways to wear the Watch... As a pocket watch, fixed to a chain which is provided with it, or as a wristwatch, fixed to the cradle, thanks to an astute system, which avoids the watch to fall, and attached to the strap through the crownguard... A concept which fascinated and still fascinates me a lot, since I discoverd it in Las Vegas, during our IGOTT II in June 2011.

The cradle without and with the Watch:

As a Pocket Watch, ok, the size is not important, or, let's say it this way, 49, 6 mm is not a big size for a Pocket Watch.

But as a wristwatch? Let's say it straight, it is not for everyone's wrist. But on mine, which is quite normally sized - 17 cm - it works! Well, it is big, really big, but it doesn't overcome my wrist, thanks to the very short lugs.

Once the obstacle of the size checked, we can pay attention to other détails.

Related to the diameter, the thickness ( 14, 45 mm including the cradle, 11, 27 mm for the case alone

is good, and gives good proportions to the case. Not too thin, which is something I deeply dislike on a big Watch, nor too big, which is equally disgracious.

Big, not too thick, but quite heavy... By the fault of the material used for the case: White Gold. I wonder if steel would not have been a better choice, related to the weight.

The other part of the Watch which deserves a lot of attention is the manual movement, which was conceived as a Pocket Watch movement with a generous size ( 43, 20 mm ) but quite thin ( only 5, 50 mm ). We are used to see much smaller and thicker movements ticking in our beloved wristwatches!

For the story, this movement is born from the collaboration of the Chopard Manufacture and the Geneva Watchmaking School. In terms of lineage, there is worse!

The movement of The Tribute is an ode to Traditional Watchmaking. Made of german silver, the plates and bridges are nicely decorated with anglages, perlages, Cotes De Genève... All the Classic codes of decoration are here, even if I would have liked a deeper anglage.

Let's not forget the very sensual oversized Swan Neck.

The movement beats at the pace of 21 600 alternances per hour, and offers a good autonomy of 80 hours. Did you know that the movement alone required 5300 hours of Research and Development?

For those of us who have some serious interest for vintage watches, the dial has a particular savour.

It looks like porcelain, enamel, with this characteristic depth, warmth, very silky / milky, but it is not porcelain nor enamel.

Indeed, the base of the dial is made of brass, then receives a laquered paint which gives this silky effect. The black roman numbers are printed.

I regret Chopard didn't opt for an enamel or porcelain dial, though, as it would have added some " Noblesse " to this opus.

Another nice detail of the dial is its oversized small seconds, which is very à propos when it comes to a Chronometer, because yes, this Watch is a Chronometer!

I would also like to mention the hours and minutes hands, which receive a very original " fusée " shape.

Limited to 150 pièces, to celebrate the 150th Anniversary of the brand ( 1860 ), this Watch come in a nice but quite voluminous case.

As to give a conclusion to this review, I have to say that this The Tribute is one of the watches which impressed me the most during our gathering in Las Vegas, and as you can imagine it, there were crazy watches, there.

It is not an everyday nor every wrist Watch, for sure, but it is a Watch which will provide you a strong feeling, and not only because of its size, but because of its... Charm.

Isn't that the most important point, for a Watch Collector?

I strongly invite you to discover it by yourself.

Best,

Nicolas

This message has been edited by amanico on 2015-05-10 07:45:17

About the Chopard L.U.C Ref. L.U.C1860

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.

Specifications

Caliber: L.U.C 96.01-L

Case: Lucent Steel

Diameter: 36.5mm

Dial: Salmon

Water Resist.: 30m

Crystal: Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

The L.U.C Louis Ulysse The Tribute's most striking feature is its 49.6 mm size, which, despite being large for a wristwatch, wears surprisingly well due to short lugs and its unique cradle system that allows it to be worn as both a pocket watch and a wristwatch.
The cradle and chain system, which converts the pocket watch into a wristwatch, is a patented design by Karl Scheufele I, highlighting the historical depth and ingenuity behind the watch's concept.
The movement, L.U.C 06.01-L, developed by Chopard for a pocket watch in collaboration with the Geneva Watchmaking School, is also used in the L.U.C 1963 Chronometer for those preferring a smaller case.
While the dial is beautifully lacquered, some collectors express a desire for an enamel dial, believing it would elevate the 'Tribute' to its highest form.
The movement's size and finish are highly impressive, reflecting the meticulous research and attention to detail in its construction.
The watch is considered by some to be Chopard's best piece in the last decade, combining elements like Roman numerals, red accents, and a beautiful movement with its unique dual wearability.

The Discussion

CaliforniaJed

May 10, 2015

Like you, I am also enamored of this one. Like you, in concept the size is huge, but on the wrist, for me, it wears amazingly well. I agree, too, that had Chopard opted for an enamel dial for this one it would be utterly irresistible, but they have done a beautiful job with the lacquer nonetheless. All the best, CaliforniaJed

amanico

May 10, 2015

The EHG is a plus, too. Best, my friend, and thanks for your feedback. Nicolas

Ares501 - Mr Green

May 10, 2015

wrist shot ;) This is for me the best Chopard piece in last decade All great ingredients are here Enamel, Roman numerals, red accents, beautiful movement and extra spice pocket and wrist watch in one Thank you for great review Best D

amanico

May 10, 2015

Yes, for me too, this is one of the most appealing Chopard. Thanks for your feedback, Damjan. Nicolas

marcelo

May 10, 2015

Thank you for the review, that I read with great interest! :-) Best! Marcelo

amanico

May 10, 2015

Don't miss the opportunity. In the real, it is from another league. Best, Nicolas

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Chopard L.U.C Louis Ulysse The Tribute Review

About the Chopard L.U.C Ref. L.U.C1860

Specifications

Key Points from the Discussion

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