Unveiling the Ultimate Lightweight Timepiece: Chopard's Zagato Lab One Concept
Weighing in at an astonishing 36.5 grams without a strap, Chopard's latest creation has shattered the 40-gram barrier, joining an elite group of ultralight watches. But here's where it gets controversial: this watch challenges traditional design norms, stripping away familiar features like dials and fully formed cases. Instead, it's all about maximizing power and horological excellence.
The new Chopard Zagato Lab One Concept showcases its movement mainplate as the dial, finished with a sleek rhodium coating and adorned with the iconic Zagato "Z" motif. This innovative design choice showcases the intricate mechanics, including the fuel-gauge-inspired power reserve indicator, hours, minutes, and a mesmerizing 60-second tourbillon housed in an aluminum carriage.
Part of Chopard's Mille Miglia collection, this watch celebrates the deep connection between the watchmaking maison and the Italian coachbuilding design studio, Zagato. While not their first collaboration, this piece truly embodies the shared spirit of pushing boundaries in both watch and car design, especially with concept cars.
The watch's architecture is a masterpiece in itself, featuring tubular elements from the hinged lugs (rotating to 45º) to the case. The ceramicized titanium structure, created through electroplasma oxidation, boasts a hardness of 1000 Vickers, offering exceptional shock and scratch resistance comparable to ceramic. With dimensions of 42mm by 11.5mm, it may not be the thinnest, but its weight of 36.5 grams (without a strap) is truly impressive.
The L.U.C 04.04-L movement, dating back to 2010, is a testament to the fusion of automotive design and advanced horology. COSC-certified and offering 60 hours of power reserve, this movement features a stop-balance and a Variner® balance with a hairspring Phillips terminal curve. While not fully skeletonized, the tourbillon cage provides a captivating view of the intricate mechanics.
Limited to just 19 pieces, the price remains a mystery, but one thing is certain: this collaboration is a bold statement. While it may not be the most traditional Chopard design, it perfectly aligns with the partnership's spirit. And this is the part most people miss: even though it's not the lightest watch on the market, it's more affordable than the Richard Mille RM 27-05, which weighs less but costs a fortune. It's also significantly lighter than Chopard's own Alpine Eagle, which impressed many.
So, is this a cool, niche release, or does it miss the mark? What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments and let's spark a discussion!
