Russell Sheldrake
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Chopard has been on a mega run recently when combining traditional and modern, and the new L.U.C XPS Forest Green is another great example of this. While the initial appearance of its sector dial, dauphine hands, and dress watch case give entirely classical vibes, the use of the brand's Lucent Steel and this deep green is entirely modern.The caseWhen Chopard makes a dress watch, there is real attention paid to making it elegant in every aspect of its form, to allow it to perform its role in more formal settings, and the case here is no different. Measuring 40mm across, yet just 7.2mm thin, that height is played down even further by the flanks of the case having a brushed finish.While the svelte silhouette of this piece is fantastic, the real point of note here is the material. Lucent Steel has been used by Chopard for a number of years now, and it is made up of at least 80% recycled steel. In the grander scheme of things, these small, slim cases aren't going to make a huge difference to the planet's current climate condition, it is these changes that show the brand's willingness to embrace modernity, and modern tastes, while still staying true to its core values and design principles.The dialThis is by no means the first time Chopard has explored green dials, but the use of a far more structured sector layout brings a sense of formality to this piece which helps balance out the elegance that the L.U.C line is known for. I'm a fan of this sector dial paired with the Art Deco hands, they play nicely off each other's angularity, giving a sense of rigidity to the overall design of this wonderfully delicate watch.The movementTo help achieve the elegant dimensions of this piece, Chopard has reached for its micro-rotor L.U.C 96.12-L calibre that measures just 3.30mm thick. With two main springs, the small 22k gold rotor can charge up to 65 hours’ worth of power. The variety of movement finishes gives a classical look here, clearly showing why Chopard has utilised this calibre so widely in its L.U.C range.The verdictYou have a lot of choices when it comes to choosing a dress watch in today's market. But if you want a true combination of classical styling, with modern tastes, and the ever pleasing look of a micro-rotor movement, this new addition from Chopard seems to be a pretty clear choice. Adding in a sense of sustainability is never a bad thing either.Chopard L.U.C XPS Forest Green pricing and availabilityThe Chopard L.U.C. XPS Forest Green doesn’t have information yet on its availability, but it will be priced at US$11,800.BrandChopardModelL.U.C XPS Forest GreenCase Dimensions40mm (D) x 7.2mm (T)Case MaterialLucent SteelWater Resistance30 metresCrystal(s)Sapphire front and backDialGreen sectorBraceletTan leather, Lucent Steel claspMovementL.U.C 96.12-L, in-house, micro-rotor automaticPower Reserve65 hoursFunctionsHours, minutes, small secondsAvailabilityNowPriceUS$11,800
08.04.24