The Chopard Imperiale collection has long been a celebrated ode to grand imperial eras, seamlessly blending artistic mastery with exceptional watchmaking. Recently, the Maison unveiled two captivating additions to this esteemed collection, further solidifying its dedication to artistic heritage and horological innovation.
In 2010, amidst the enchanting canals of Venice, Chopard Co-President and Artistic Director, Caroline Scheufele, presented the world with the Imperiale collection. Inspired by the city’s rich history and imperial aesthetic codes, the timepieces featured in-house movements and became instant collector’s favorites, with some boasting intricate moon phases or tourbillons.
The two new Imperiale models uphold the Maison’s unwavering commitment to its in-house expertise. From crafting the cases to meticulously assembling the movements, a multitude of skilled artisans contribute to the creation of these exceptional timepieces. Watchmakers, gemsetters, enamellers, and mother-of-pearl artists work hand-in-hand to ensure each Imperiale embodies the pinnacle of artistry. This dedication extends beyond creating breathtaking watches; it also involves preserving and passing down these time-honored techniques to future generations.
These two new 36mm creations, crafted in ethical 18-carat rose or white gold, radiate imperial grandeur. Diamonds adorn the bezels, lug covers, cabochons, and crowns, while the collection’s signature design elements – dagger-type hands, lotus-flower crown, and column-shaped lugs – are meticulously reproduced. However, it is the captivating dials that truly steal the show.
The rose gold model boasts a mesmerizing dial entirely adorned with delicate blue mother-of-pearl. A raised rose gold decorative fillet outlines the collection’s emblematic arabesque motif, subtly forming a floral pattern. This exquisite canvas is further embellished with alternating padparadscha sapphires and delicate flowers featuring pink mother-of-pearl petals and diamond hearts.
The white gold model presents a contrasting yet equally captivating masterpiece. A magnificent deep blue-green enamel sets the stage, rimmed by a raised white gold decorative fillet forming graceful arabesques filled with white enamel. Padparadscha sapphires and pink mother-of-pearl flowers complete this enchanting tableau.
The captivating beauty of these Imperiale watches is complemented by their reliable functionality. Each timepiece is powered by the Chopard 96.17-C movement, entirely designed and developed within the Manufacture’s workshops. This impressive caliber boasts Chopard Twin technology with a double barrel, ensuring a remarkable 65-hour power reserve. Remarkably thin at just 3.3mm, the 167-component movement perfectly complements the exquisite femininity of the Imperiale collection.
The new Chopard Imperiale watches are a testament to the Maison’s dedication to artistic heritage and horological innovation. Each timepiece is a captivating fusion of artistry, adorned with mother-of-pearl and enamel marquetry, and powered by a reliable, in-house movement. These exquisite creations are a true embodiment of imperial majesty, destined to grace the wrists of discerning collectors for generations to come.
