Introducing The New Chopard L.U.C XP Nihontō

Chopard is a brand that masterfully blends innovation with artistic tradition, creating timepieces that bridge cultures and centuries. A while ago, the Maison released the L.U.C Full Strike Spirit of the Warrior, inspired by Japanese samurai artistry. In its latest creation, Chopard continues this dialogue between East and West with the L.U.C XP Nihontō, uniting the precision of Swiss watchmaking with the spirit of Japanese sword-making.

The watch pays tribute to the ancient art of crafting Japanese swords, known as nihontō. Its dial is forged from damascened steel using a process inspired by Tamahagane, the sacred steel once reserved for samurai blades. At the Corcelles forge in Neuchâtel, an artisan who has spent decades mastering Japanese forging techniques layers and welds between 120 and 160 sheets of steel, each one bearing the traces of fire and motion.

The result is a mesmerizing surface of moiré patterns that ripple like waves in motion, capturing both the power and serenity of the forge. No two dials are identical, each reflecting its own spirit of impermanence and individuality. The rhodium-plated Dauphine fusée hands and slender hour markers complement the hypnotic steel texture, ensuring legibility while preserving the dial’s sculptural depth.

The watch is housed in an 18-carat ethical white gold case measuring 40 mm in diameter and 8.28 mm in thickness. Its polished bezel contrasts subtly with satin-brushed sides, while a glare-proof sapphire crystal protects the dial. Turning the watch over reveals a sapphire exhibition caseback offering a full view of the movement within. The case provides water resistance up to 30 meters.

Powering the watch is the L.U.C Calibre 96.41-L, an automatic movement that exemplifies the savoir-faire of Chopard Manufacture. Measuring only 3.30 mm thick, it features a 22-carat gold micro-rotor that winds two stacked barrels using Chopard Twin Technology. This configuration provides a robust 65-hour power reserve and operates at a frequency of 28,800 vph (4 Hz). Every bridge is meticulously chamfered and decorated with Côtes de Genève motifs, while the mainplate is circular-grained. The movement proudly bears the Poinçon de Genève, a hallmark that certifies the exceptional quality, craftsmanship, and origin of each component.

The timepiece is paired with a grey alligator leather strap featuring tone-on-tone stitching, secured by an 18-carat ethical white gold pin buckle. The watch is limited to just 25 pieces and is priced at EUR 36,200, approximately AED 154,000.

For more information, visit Chopard’s official website.