CHOPARD
Founded over 150 years ago by Louis-ulysse Chopard, Chopard was bought by Karl Scheufele and his wife, Karin, in 1963, after which the firm experienced a revival that has made it one of today’s most iconic brands. The Chopard and Scheufele families grew out of Switzerland’s watch industry, with Louis-ulysse starting his own manufactory in 1860 when he was just 24. The first Karl Scheufele started out making pendants and medals, and in 1904 moved on to watches. Two generations later, Chopard was bought by the second Karl Scheufele who, along with his children KarlFriedrich and Caroline, shaped it into the brand it is today.
A goldsmith and watchmaker, Karl-friedrich is responsible for Chopard Manufacture, the men’s watch division based in Fleurier. Caroline, a gemmologist, is in charge of design for the Haute Joaillerie division, boutique organisation and management, along with fragrances and accessories.
Keeping the brand independent is their driving ambition. The first own-name boutique opened in 1983 in Hong Kong and Chopard now has independent boutiques in cities including London, Tokyo, Geneva, Shanghai and Singapore.