Chopard L.U.C Quattro Ref. 161926-9001 Review

andrewluff · 2015-05-15T06:14:40Z

Andrewluff reviews the Chopard L.U.C Quattro Ref. 161926-9001 in platinum with a blue/slate dial. Discover its 9-day power reserve, Poinçon de Genève movement, and unique dial design.

andrewluff

WPS member · Chopard forum

25 replies6979 views2 photos

Andrewluff shares his unexpected admiration for the Chopard L.U.C Quattro Ref. 161926-9001, a platinum model with a blue/slate dial, introduced at Baselworld 2015. His hands-on impressions offer a fresh perspective on Chopard's evolving design and manufacturing quality, particularly for those who may not have previously considered the brand.

I have to be honest, until now I have not really found anything from Chopard that could make me part with my hard earned cash... until now (exception to the PuristS edition... if only it was in orange rather than red!)

At one our regular gatherings in London, I was lucky enough to be introduced to a new model (from the 2015 Basel novelties), the LUC Quattro in platinum with a blue/slate coloured dial. I can only say that this certainly changed my mind on the quality of the products coming from the brand but also how their designs are developing. This is not an in-depth review, but thought I would share my thoughts as I was seriously impressed.

So here it is...

It is housed in a modern sized case (43mm) but not too thick to be worn both dressed up or casual (9mm) and the weight of the platinum case makes it very comfortable sitting on the wrist without too much movement from side to side. However on the front its all about the dial... I love it! The blue with a tinge of slate colour depending on the light is stunning, matched with the white metal case and the applied roman numerals it really is to die for. Even with the inclusion of the power reserve and date on the dial do not clutter the dial but really add to the beauty in my eye.

I honestly expected to turn the watch over and be a little disappointed with the moment, but this is what greeted me....

As you can see it is a beautifully finished, manual wind movement with the Poinçon de Genève seal. The model 'Quattro' if you did not already know relates to the 4 barrels (2 stacks of 2) which gives the watch an impressive power reserve of 9 days. I love the layout/shape of the bridges and the very high level of finishing, is all very clean looking and the movement fits the size of the case really nicely.

Finally, if I could add anything further... the strap was also a perfect match for the dial and you can feel it is beautifully made and comfortable on the wrist without being over stiff. The colour of the lining too is a nice contrast too and makes it feel luxurious. Will one end up in my collection? Its seriously tempting but maybe just missing the orange touch!

Cheers

Andrew

Key Points from the Discussion

The L.U.C Quattro's date subdial, with its inner circle for even numbers and outer ring for odd, is a deliberate design choice that creates a clean, symmetrical layout while being functional once understood.
The 'Quattro' designation refers to the movement's four barrels (two stacks of two), which provide an impressive 9-day power reserve, showcasing Chopard's advanced watchmaking technology.
The L.U.C Quattro's 43mm platinum case with a 9mm thickness makes it versatile for both formal and casual wear, and the weight contributes to wrist comfort.
The movement's size in relation to the case is well-proportioned, which is a positive aspect, especially for a manual-wind caliber, avoiding the common issue of smaller movements in larger watches.
The dual-hand subdial at six o'clock, indicating both running seconds and date, is considered an unusual and potentially confusing design by some, requiring a 'double-take' to distinguish between the two functions.
Chopard's L.U.C watches have consistently demonstrated high quality for years, and it is encouraging to see new collectors recognizing and appreciating the brand's offerings.

The Discussion

Bill

May 15, 2015

We can hear it in your voice/mini review. Very beautiful watch and at 43mm it looks like it can fit in with your lifestyle. Very cool. Bill

amanico

May 15, 2015

I was very positively impressed by this one. With just one regret: I would have loved to see more of that movement... But I have the same problem with the JLC 8 Days, too... Best, and thanks for this post, Andrew. Nicolas

andrewluff

May 15, 2015

I think this is better than some recently releases for the movement size... I am normally one who hates smaller movements in large watches, but really this is not too bad. I think it always looks worse with automatic movements so this is one tick. Serious contender for a new addition... Cheers Andrew

andrewluff

May 15, 2015

I think its just the colour of the dial and as I wear jeans most of the time (if not shorts) then it just ticks the box. Have to decide if it would work with an orange strap. Cheers Andrew

amanico

May 15, 2015

Pretty picky... Yes, a good surprise. Best, Nicolas.

foversta

May 15, 2015

With a little touch of orange... A great watch. Fx

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Chopard L.U.C Quattro Ref. 161926-9001 Review

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