A minute-repeating masterpiece of haute horlogerie.

Like numerous other Swiss watchmakers, Chopard launched a traditional model dedicated to the Chinese New Year at the end of last year: the L.U.C XP Urushi Year of the Dragon. The brand unveiled the Chinese zodiac tribute as a mark of respect for their Asian clients but didn't stop there.

They launched a series of seven new dragon novelties in the middle of summer. The mythological creatures are brought to life using various artisan crafts combined with watch complications. One of the most interesting novelties is the L.U.C Full Strike "Year of the Dragon" Ref. 161947-5005. 

A year later, the jury of the GPHG recognized Chopard's effort to cement its position on the haute horlogerie scene by awarding the L.U.C Full Strike the "Aiguille d'Or" prize for best in show.

Fast-forward seven years to now, and another minute repeater with sapphire gongs and repeater activation integrated into the winding crown has been given a Grand Feu enamel dial, made within the walls of the manufacture.

As a result of multiple firings, the dragon on the dial comes to life in tones that transition from gray to ochre and beige. The swirling monster leaves enough room for openworked gongs and an indication to keep track of the 60-hour power reserve of the L.U.C Caliber 08.01-L. 

The movement comprising 533 components took 17,000 hours to develop, which gave the engineers enough time to fine-tune the components. Reactivating the striking mechanism while it's chiming is simply impossible. A separate barrel is provided to power the musical complication.

The exquisite depiction of the dragon with colored scales is framed by a bezel encrusted with 60 baguette-cut diamonds that weigh a total of 2.74 carats. The bezel is paired with a white-gold case (Chopard's typical ethical gold) measuring 42.50 mm in diameter and 11.55 mm in height.