Everything has a name, and each name has a meaning and a reason for being named. So, what is the origin of the name of that famous watch? In this column, we will explore the secrets behind the names of watches and introduce them along with their anecdotes.
This time, we will explore the origin of the name "LUC" of Chopard, which celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2021 since Chopard's then-Vice President Karl-Friedrich Scheufele founded "Chopard Manufacture" in Fleurier, Switzerland in 1996 and began in-house development and manufacturing there.
This early "LUC 1860" is equipped with Chopard's first in-house developed movement, the Cal. LUC 1.96, completed in 1996. It features blunt lugs and a rounded bezel, giving it a classic and authentic impression. The movement has been awarded the Poinçon de Genève. First released in 1996. Automatic (Cal. LUC 1.96). 32 jewels. 28,800 vph. Power reserve approximately 65 hours. 18K yellow gold case (36.5mm diameter). Water resistant to 30m. Limited to 1860 pieces worldwide. Private collection.
Photographs by Masanori Yoshie
(Article published on October 9, 2021)
Chopard "LUC"
2021 marks the 25th anniversary of the founding of Chopard Manufacture in 1996, which is solely responsible for the production of Chopard's in-house movements and the "LUC" collection that houses them. "LUC" is Chopard's flagship collection today. "LUC" stands for the initials of Chopard's founder, Louis-Ulysse Chopard. This collection is notable for returning to Chopard's origins as a manufacture, developing and equipping its watches with in-house movements.
Chopard began as a watch workshop in the Jura region of Switzerland in 1860. From the very beginning, the company specialized in the production of luxury pocket watches and high-precision movements, and quickly expanded overseas, winning over wealthy customers including the Russian emperor.
Chopard then opened a branch in La Chaux-de-Fonds and moved its headquarters to Geneva, achieving further prosperity. However, World War II caused financial difficulties. Furthermore, with no successor in sight, Chopard was considering selling the company when it met Karl Scheufele of Eszech, a German jewellery manufacturer that was looking for a supplier of watch movements. In 1963, Karl Scheufele took over the management of Chopard.
This meeting of the two companies ushered in a new era for Chopard, which gained worldwide renown for its elegant jewelry watches, combining Chopard's watchmaking with Eszeha's jewelry-making expertise.
Another special charm of Chopard is that it has remained a family business. In the 1980s, Karl Scheufele's children, siblings Karl-Friedrich and Caroline, joined the company. Since 2001, Karl-Friedrich and Caroline have been co-presidents, with Karl Scheufele serving as chairman.
In other words, all Chopard products are based on the Scheufele family's aesthetic. And as far as I know, Karl-Friedrich has the most exquisite aesthetics in the watch industry. His grooming, taste in wine, and taste in cars are all top-notch.
By the way, when I interview people, I always ask, "What was your first watch?" and Karl-Friedrich's answer was particularly memorable.
When Karl-Friedrich was in junior high school, he was made to accompany his father on a business trip. Apparently, the business deal took him around Europe. At the end of the long journey, his father praised him for a job well done and bought him a Heuer model for the yachting competition he was into at the time. That was his first watch.
In other words, from a young age he was able to experience the business of Chopard, a world-famous luxury brand, up close. Karl-Friedrich was a man who literally learned the art of being an emperor.
"LUC" was developed under the direction of Karl Friedrich, and as such, it was created from start to finish in accordance with Karl Friedrich's aesthetics.
