Nearly 30 years after its launch, the LUC not only features an excellent in-house movement, but also boasts a larger, more sophisticated package—a move that many watch enthusiasts would agree with. The acquisition of dial manufacturer Metalem has notably expanded the variety of dial expressions available, making it a must-see. It's only natural that a company like Chopard would showcase its creativity and signature craftsmanship in niche, rare limited editions. This is evident in the limited edition models that Co-President Karl-Friedrich Scheufele calls "Japanese-inspired."
Photograph by Yu Mitamura
Masamasa Hirota (this magazine): Interview and writing
Text by Masayuki Hirota (Chronos-Japan)
Edited by Yukiya Suzuki (Chronos-Japan)
[Article published in the July 2026 issue of Kronos Japan]
"Models with a Japanese motif won't be accepted unless the finish is perfect."
Co-President of Chopard. Born in Germany in 1958. Moved to Switzerland at the age of 15 and enrolled at HEC Lausanne. Joined Chopard after graduating. In 88, launched the Mille Miglia collection, which continues to this day. In 96, established a workshop in Fleurier, located in the Swiss Jura Mountains, and began production of the company's own in-house movement, LUC. In 2015, established a new watch brand, Chronométrie Ferdinand Berthoud.
"Last year we made a model exclusive to China, but personally I wanted to make a limited edition model inspired by Japan. I love Japan, and many tourists visit there. But it took a long time because I had to wait until the plan was ready. The number of units produced is limited to eight or 25. The reason for the small number is that I wanted it to be aimed at collectors."
What's interesting is that not only have they combined Japanese and Swiss techniques, but they have also carefully considered the motifs. For example, the forged dial models are made using techniques that Fleurier's artisans learned in Japan. The one-of-a-kind "LUC Full Strike Spirit of the Warrior" is not only meticulously engraved all over, but also seamlessly incorporates traditional motifs such as guardian lion dogs and swallowtail butterflies. This perfection is truly typical of Chopard today.
"There are manufacturers that only recreate themes on the surface, but we dig deep into the details right from the manufacturing stage. And if the theme is Japan, the finish has to be perfect to be accepted (laughs). With this model, we've engraved everything that's possible."
This is one of a trilogy of Jumping Hours watches, released to commemorate the 25th anniversary of Chopard Manufacture, that incorporate a Japanese motif. The brushstrokes are expressed in platinum, an unprecedented attempt. A perfect model, perfectly executed in every direction, that is characteristic of Chopard today. Manually wound (Cal. LUC 98.06-L). 42 jewels. 28,800 vph. Power reserve of approximately 8 days. 18K ethical white gold case (diameter 40.00 mm, thickness 10.30 mm). 50m. Limited to 8 pieces worldwide. 935 million yen (tax included).
What caught my eye were the three limited editions of the LUC Quattro Spirit collection: Enso, Samurai Last Stand, and Meditating Bodhidharma. These are made with Grand Feu enamel and feature brushstrokes further recreated with platinum or gold.
"I chose the Jumping Hour as the base to preserve the brushstrokes. However, it is difficult to reproduce brushstrokes in enamel, although many miniature paintings do. And on this model, even the logo is enamel, to create thickness and shadows," Scheufele said casually, but he had never seen any other examples of rough brushstrokes being reproduced in platinum or gold. In response, he said, "Technology is meaningless unless it is done in a new way."
Chopard is not only known for its regular models, but also for its extremely limited edition models, which are produced in extremely small quantities. Their ability to put together a package without getting bogged down in the details is now considered extraordinary.
"Well, we've been working on the LUC collection for nearly 30 years."
