Chopard presents a unique timepiece in the Alpine Eagle collection: the Alpine Eagle 41 XP Time For Art. Crafted from Chopard’s Lucent Steel, this watch features a straw marquetry dial, a first for the brand. It is the latest watch to emerge from the partnership with TimeForArt, an initiative that supports contemporary art. With this watch, Chopard also demonstrates the technical capabilities of its L.U.C movements.
The case of the Alpine Eagle 41 XP Time For Art is made of Lucent Steel, an exclusive steel alloy developed by Chopard. This material is not only robust but also anti-allergenic and environmentally friendly, as it is produced using 80% recycled steel. The dimensions of the case are generous, with a diameter of 41 mm and a slim profile of 8 mm. Despite these slender measurements, the water resistance of the watch is guaranteed up to 100 meters. Design features such as the beveled screws on the bezel and the compass rose on the crown give the watch an elegant yet functional appearance. Moreover, the sapphire crystal on both the front and back is treated with an anti-reflective coating, ensuring optimal visibility. The transparent case back allows for a view of the intricate mechanics inside.
The dial of the Alpine Eagle 41 XP Time For Art is a true work of art, handcrafted using the centuries-old technique of straw marquetry. Each strand of rye straw from Burgundy, France is meticulously processed and arranged to create a composition reminiscent of the New York skyline seen from an eagle’s perspective. This technique is being used by Chopard for the first time in one of its timepieces, highlighting the brand’s commitment to artisanal traditions. The delicate nature of the straw requires 60 hours of work, after which the hour markers and inner bezel ring are applied by hand. Complementing the natural materials are the white gold hour and minute hands, as well as the rhodium-plated hour markers, all enhanced with Super-LumiNova Grade X1 for optimal readability in low light conditions.
Housed within the Alpine Eagle 41 XP Time For Art is the self-winding L.U.C Calibre 96.17-L movement. With a thickness of just 3.30 mm, this movement is particularly slim, made possible by the off-center micro-rotor in 22-carat gold. The high inertia of the rotor ensures efficient winding of the dual barrels, which provide a power reserve of 65 hours. The movement operates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz) and features 29 jewels. Decorative elements such as the Côtes de Genève finish on the bridges add an extra touch of elegance. The balance wheel with variable inertia further enhances the reliability and precision of the movement.
The Alpine Eagle 41 XP Time For Art comes with bracelet made of Lucent Steel. The bracelet features wide links with satin-brushed sides and a polished central link, giving it a luxurious appearance. The triple folding clasp with safety pushers ensures secure closure and ease of use.
The Chopard Alpine Eagle 41 XP Time For Art is a unique piece and will therefore not be available for purchase. It will be auctioned at a TimeForArt event in New York, with proceeds going to support contemporary artists. Interested collectors should contact their nearest Chopard boutique for more information.
