Chopard L.U.C Quattro Watch Review
The Chopard L.U.C Quattro is housed in an 18-carat white gold case. Equipped with ‘L.U.C Quattro Technology’, comprising two sets of two stacked barrels, the watch proffers a prodigious power-reserve of approximately 216 hours. It is also chronometer-certified (COSC) and bears the Poinçon de Genève, a symbol of no-compromise quality. Angus Davies reviews this shining example of high-end watchmaking.
Power and seduction
Power can be an appealing characteristic. No man craves an asthmatic, underpowered car. The majority of red-blooded men seek high-performance motoring, preferably accompanied by a throaty engine note. On the other hand, power has the capacity to corrupt the most mild-mannered individuals. Indeed, the halls of power are lined with politicians who have set aside principles in the pursuit of professional advancement.
But here is a watch, the Chopard L.U.C Quattro, which is powerful courtesy of two sets of two stacked barrels, yet has a clean dial, free of impurities. It’s a virtuous composition. But can a timepiece which has much integrity also be seductive? Definitely.
The seductive power of the Chopard L.U.C Quattro becomes apparent within the first few moments of association. I have contemplated purchasing the rose gold Quattro in the past for my own collection, only to succumb to some other beauty en route to acquisition. However, the Quattro remains a model on my wish list.
The rose gold model has an obvious beauty, whereas the white gold model is more restrained, almost shy by comparison and, at first glance, it’s the less obvious choice. However, like the quieter sibling of a vivacious stunner, it slowly snares your heart leading to a long-term relationship. Indeed, the white gold Chopard L.U.C Quattro is marriage material. But why has this variant of the Quattro crept under the radar and stealthily seduced me with its sinuous form? Allow me to elaborate.
Chopard L.U.C Quattro – dial
The silver-toned Dauphine fusée-type hour and minute hands have a delightfully detailed profile. Near the fulcrum of the dial, they have substance, but exquisitely step downwards and then taper to a point. Their charming construction appears to be the result of protracted contemplation. The hands brim with style and grace, attributes that are much in evidence with the Quattro.
The hour track sits lower than the adjacent central dial area and is marked with silver-toned hour Roman numerals. The applied hour markers provide superb contrast with the adjacent dial canvas and their notable depth wonderfully engages with ambient light. At noon, a crescent-shaped power-reserve indicator shows the amount of energy housed in the barrels, expressed in days.
A subdial resides at 6 o’clock and combines two functions, a date indication and a small seconds display. However, despite the close proximity of the two functions, and the presence of two hands, the legibility and ease of interpretation are beyond reproach. Encircling the dial area is a minute track marked with simple, unfussy strokes. The design is judged to perfection. Nothing is unduly fussy.
Chopard L.U.C Quattro – case
Measuring 43 mm in diameter, the Quattro is larger than some Chopard L.U.C models such as the exquisite L.U.C XPS. However, whilst this model is larger in diameter, it still retains the elegance as other watches bearing the L.U.C name. The Chopard L.U.C Quattro is relatively slim with a case height of only 8.87 mm, despite having the capacity to store 9 days of power (approximately 216 hours). Whilst the watch does not purport to be ultra-thin, its torso is slender and has an unassuming character. Indeed, this model does not crassly boast but quietly and tastefully nuzzles the wearer’s wrist.
The case band is vertically satin-brushed while the other surfaces are polished to a brilliant sheen. The caseback is secured with eight screws and features a sapphire crystal, revealing a jaw-droppingly gorgeous movement, the L.U.C 98.01-L.
Chopard L.U.C Calibre 98.01-L
The hand-wound L.U.C Calibre 98.01-L has a diameter of 28.60 mm and occupies a significant proportion of the case. I applaud Chopard. Several brands release watches with exhibition casebacks that expose an undernourished movement, too small for the case it resides within. No allegations of this nature can be directed at Chopard, the scale of the L.U.C 98.01-L perfectly suits its housing.
The four barrels are arranged in two sets of two, stacked and series-coupled. The Quattro was launched in 2011 and, at the time, the L.U.C Calibre 98.01-L (formerly L.U.C 1.98) was said to be the only movement to have four stacked and series-coupled barrels. Chopard prudently patented much of the know-how and I suspect the aforementioned claim may well stand. However, to focus on this element alone would be a shame because, in my opinion, it is the finissage that distinguishes this movement as extraordinary. The inventory of details includes, Côtes de Genève motif, perlage, bevelled bridges and polished jewel and screw sinks.
Another sight which does warm my heart is the gleaming swan-neck regulator. The Poinçon de Genève, an independently audited quality hallmark, vindicates my profuse use of complimentary superlatives. Once again, Chopard has produced a L.U.C movement that is crafted to a matchless standard.
Chopard L.U.C Quattro – closing remarks
On several occasions, I have come close to purchasing a Chopard L.U.C Quattro in rose gold, but I have yet to realise this dream. Perhaps this was fate as I could have easily overlooked the white gold model in preference for its flame-haired sibling. The white gold option has shown me there is an alternative path to horological pleasure. Its pale skin, quiet voice and demure demeanour are delightful.
Nevertheless, irrespective of which Chopard L.U.C Quattro you opt for, they both make a compelling case for selection. Indeed, both models are blessed with a plethora of talents and an elegant mien. However, prior to purchasing the seemingly obvious belle of the ball, take a moment and contemplate the appeal of the fair-skinned beauty with a kind smile, for she is the partner who will hold your attention for a very long time indeed.
Further information
Technical specification
- Model: Chopard L.U.C Quattro
- Reference: 161926-1001
- Case: 18-carat white gold, diameter 43 mm, height 8.87 mm, sapphire crystal to front and case-back; water resistant to 5 atm (50 metres)
- Functions: hours, minutes, small seconds, pointer date, power-reserve indicator
- Movement: L.U.C Calibre 98.01-L, hand-wound movement, frequency 28,800 vph (4 Hz), 39 jewels, power reserve approximately 216 hours
- Strap: black alligator leather strap (matt square plate) with hand-sewn matching tones. Brown alligator lining. Fitted with an 18-carat white gold pin buckle.
- Price: £25,600.00 (RRP as of 2.8.2023)