FACE TO FACE
Chopard’s L.U.C All-inOne returns, packing a full suite of astronomical indications just like the original from 2010.
Chopard’s L.U.C All-in- One returns, packing a full suite of astronomical indications just like the original from 2010.
WHAT IT IS: If its name isn’t enough of a hint, the L.U.C All-in- One is Chopard’s supercomplication, with 14 indications spread out over two faces, front and back. Among its salient complications are a perpetual calendar with big date, equation of time, sunrise/ sunset times (set to Geneva’s), orbital moonphase and power reserve, all topped off with a tourbillon regulator. Technically, this watch isn’t new; the L.U.C All-in- One was first launched to mark Chopard’s 150th anniversary in 2010, and this year’s references are two extensions in platinum and rose gold, limited to 10 pieces each. HOW IT LOOKS: Like most L.U.C timepieces, the All-in- One is resolutely masculine, beginning with its colour schemes – the reference in platinum is dominated by a deep, rich greyishblue dial, while the pink gold version has what Chopard calls a verdigris (a metal patina) dial. Adding to the masculine feel are the watch’s thick bezel and lugs, as well as the bold sunburst guilloche on the dial and the baton-shaped hands. With the sheer number of indications, achieving a balanced look was bound to be a challenge. While the subdials on the front dial feel a tad too crowded towards the centre, elements such as the brand signature and appliqued indexes provide balance by reducing the perception of empty space on the outer parts of the dial. HOW IT WEARS: At 46mm across and 18.5mm high, the L.U.C All-in- One’s dimensions preclude many wrists from wearing it comfortably, especially given its proportionately sized lugs. The choice of gold or platinum for the case material – steel does seem too pedestrian for a watch such as this – contributes much to the feeling of heft as well. One is unlikely to wear this timepiece as a daily beater, though, so perhaps the issue of comfort and ergonomics is moot.