Chopard has long stood among the elite when it comes to chiming complications, and its L.U.C collection remains one of the most respected arenas for high horology. Now, the brand has pushed its expertise further than ever with the introduction of the L.U.C Grand Strike, a creation that blends a grande sonnerie, petite sonnerie, minute repeater, and a 60-second tourbillon inside a brand-new movement boasting dual certifications.

A Case That Echoes Familiarity and Evolution

The Grand Strike arrives in a sculpted 43mm case crafted from 18k ethical white gold, a silhouette reminiscent of previous Full Strike models but elevated with new functional elements. While the integrated crown pusher remains the activation point for the minute repeater, a new caseband switch allows effortless selection between passive chiming modes:

• Grande Sonnerie – chimes every quarter and hour

• Petite Sonnerie – chimes only on the hour

• Silence – complete quiet when desired

These modes run independently of the minute repeater, which can be activated on command through the crown pusher at any time.

A Dial That Doesn’t Hide the Marvel Beneath

Calling it a dial feels almost misleading. The Grand Strike showcases the full depth of the new manually wound caliber L.U.C 08.03-L, a 686-component architectural masterpiece built to be admired. Warm German-silver bridges, beautifully arranged gears, and carefully layered components reveal the full complexity of a chiming mechanism operating on multiple layers.

Despite its mechanical density, legibility remains clear. Beneath twelve o’clock, a small aperture displays the active sonnerie mode (P, G, or S), while to the right sit two independent power reserve indicators one for the timekeeping barrel, the other for the chiming barrel. The movement runs for 70 hours, with the grande sonnerie guaranteed for at least 12 hours of chiming.

At six o’clock, a hacking tourbillon completes a 60-second rotation. Rare among tourbillon watches, the stop-seconds mechanism halts the rotating cage when setting the time, enabling exact synchronization.

Sapphire Gongs: Chopard’s Acoustic Signature

One of the defining features of Chopard’s chiming watches is the use of sapphire gongs. Instead of traditional steel, the gongs are carved from sapphire and integrated directly into the crystal. This monobloc construction lets sound travel unobstructed, producing a clearer, louder, and more resonant chime than conventional designs.

Visible hammers strike at the 10 o’clock position, giving a direct view of the musical mechanics in motion. The sapphire crystal itself carries an engraved minute track another subtle nod to craft and coherence.

A Movement Built on Innovation

The L.U.C Grand Strike introduces five new patents and utilizes five more drawn from earlier breakthroughs. These innovations enhance user safety and performance, ensuring the chiming system cannot be damaged through incorrect operation. Other improvements reduce energy consumption and prevent interrupted chimes.

In addition to its mechanical achievements, the watch carries two prestigious seals:

• Poinçon de Genève certification

• COSC chronometer certification (tested in petite sonnerie mode)

A Showcase of Chopard’s Highest Watchmaking Ideals

The L.U.C Grand Strike feels like a culmination of Chopard’s entire chiming journey from the early Strike One to the various Full Strike editions. By removing the dial and revealing the full complexity of the caliber, Chopard emphasizes the evolution of its acoustic engineering and celebrates the craft behind each component.

Among modern grande sonnerie watches, the Grand Strike stands out not only for its technical brilliance but for its distinct identity. The combination of sapphire-based acoustics, manual-wound architecture, refined case design, and dual certification creates a piece that is both bold and deeply traditional. For a collector exploring the top tier of chiming horology, the Grand Strike will undeniably be a compelling choice.

Specifications

Brand: Chopard

Model: L.U.C Grand Strike

Reference: 161994-1001

Diameter: 43mm
Thickness: 14.08mm
Case Material: 18k Ethical White Gold
Dial: Open-worked / No dial
Indexes: Engraved
Lume: None
Strap: Quick-change grey alligator or dark blue alligator

Movement  L.U.C 08.03-L

• Functions: Hours, minutes, small seconds, tourbillon, grande & petite sonnerie, minute repeater, chiming mode display, dual power reserves, stop-seconds

• Caliber Diameter: 37.2mm

• Caliber Thickness: 10.14mm

• Power Reserve: 70 hours (time) / approx. 12 hours (chiming)

• Winding: Manual

• Frequency: 4 Hz

• Jewels: 67

• Certifications: COSC & Poinçon de Genève