Manufacture
AndrewD invites readers on an exclusive tour of the Chopard L.U.CEUM in Fleurier, a museum dedicated to horological history and Karl-Friedrich Scheufele’s personal collection. His detailed account and accompanying photographs reveal a reverential space that traces the evolution of timekeeping from ancient instruments to intricate pocket watches. This visit underscores Chopard's deep connection to the rich watchmaking heritage of the Neuchâtel region.
What’s behind the Blue Door?
A visit to the Chopard Manufacture at Fleurier is not complete without passing through these doors. Behind them lies the history of horology, particularly of the local Neuchatel area and of course of Chopard. The L.U.CEUM is Karl-Friedrich Scheufele’s personal horological collection and was opened in 2006 for the tenth anniversary of the manufacture. It is fully curated and new pieces of the highest quality are added as they become available.
The space itself, with exposed beams and wooden floor and lined with display cases, is quiet and reverential. A lyceum is a public space for teaching and learning. I could see watchmakers and designers spending hours in here just soaking up the history and looking for inspiration.
The pieces are arranged to follow a journey through time, from sandglasses and sundials to clocks and watches.
Breguet pocket watches
There was so much more to see, but there were modern Chopard novelties waiting for me to play with and I had to move on. Chopard have produced a book: “Traces of Time” that presents the collection in more detail. I have I have whetted your appetite for more.
Andrew
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.
Love looking at the old history of timepieces. Those pocket watches are cool!
The Square Table Clock is superb. Good to see some DNA from Chopard! Best, Nicolas
Thanks so much for the post and the photographs. The Luis Ulysse Chopard pocket watch from 1860 is fascinating, and quite beautiful. Best, CJ
... - both LUC and the new Ebauches Manufacture - are very aware of the horological history of the region and really embrace it. The L.U.CEUM collection reflects this as well. I felt a sense of reverence to the past in there and could have spent hours soaking that up. Worth a visit if the opportunity arises. Andrew
Hi Jed, Thanks for the nice words. I know you have a soft spot for Chopard. Here are some more pictures from "Traces of Time" of the LUC pocket watch:
Nice pictures and a great reminder of our previous visit there. Hope you have quite a bit of time there :-) Kong
This thread is active on the Chopard forum with 8 replies. Share your knowledge with fellow collectors.
Join the Discussion →
