First launched in 2009, the Chopard L.U.C Lunar Big Date now gets a whole new glow by adopting the full design codes of the new L.U.C aesthetic.
On the 18-carat white gold L.U.C Lunar Big Date the moon phase is so accurate that the difference between the true lunar cycle and the indication given by the timepiece amounts to just one day every 122 years. What could be more inspiring than to stay in permanent touch with the Moon? With its portion of the night sky visible on the dial, the L.U.C Lunar Big Date is a vivid reminder of the enduring ties between our time and the sky above us. The moon phase is associated here with the central hour and minute hands, a large date display at 12 o’clock and a small second’s indication between 4 and 5 o’clock. The Fleurier Manufacture’s self-winding L.U.C Calibre 96.20-L is housed in a generous 42 mm-diameter case in polished 18-carat white gold with a satin-brushed case-band. A silver-toned sunburst satin-brushed dial, elegantly studded with Roman numerals and swept over by Dauphine hands featuring the L.U.C design, sets the perfect finishing touch to this pleasingly balanced visual effect.
The vision of the Moon seen from Earth changes in time with its rotation: its visible side may be completely lit up by the Sun (full Moon), entirely plunged into darkness (new Moon) or only partially illuminated (various moon phases). The interval between two identical moon phases – called a month or a synodical revolution – is equivalent to 29 days, 12 hours, 44 minutes and 2.8 seconds.
Achieving such accuracy in a wristwatch is an extremely complex feat to which Chopard Manufacture has risen with significant talent. The L.U.C Lunar Big Date is endowed with an extremely precise device in which the wheel driving the moon-bearing disc comprises 135 teeth. The indication is so precise that the discrepancy between the mechanism and the real lunar cycle amounts to just one day in 122 years. The various moon phases are visible for both Northern and Southern hemispheres through a particularly large aperture ensuring easy readability. In addition, the Northern part of the disc features the Big Dipper constellation, while the Southern part displays the Southern Cross.
Two stacked co-axial barrels ensures a 65-hour supply of energy to the movement with its balance oscillating at a rate of 28,800 vibrations per hour. Chronometer-certified by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC), the movement is visible through the exhibition case-back. Fitted with a black hand-sewn alligator leather strap secured by a pin buckle, the L.U.C Lunar Big Date is an exceptional watch in terms of both precision and elegance.
Chopard once more have produced an exceptional timepiece.