Introduction
The L.U.C 1937 was introduced in 2010 as part of Chopard's 150th-anniversary celebrations, its name recalling a pivotal moment in the manufacture's history. It was in 1937 that Paul-André Chopard, grandson of founder Louis-Ulysse Chopard, moved the company from the Swiss Jura to Geneva, establishing the geographical foundation for the Chopard that followed. The anniversary watch translated that history into a deliberately traditional three-hand design, while the subsequent L.U.C 1937 Classic retained the concept in a clean, contemporary 42mm stainless steel case.
This example features the particularly crisp white lacquered dial, its porcelain-like surface contrasting strongly with oversized black Roman numerals and the railway-style minute track. Despite the historical inspiration, the watch is thoroughly modern mechanically. Visible through the sapphire case back is the automatic L.U.C calibre 01.01-L, part of Chopard Manufacture's vertically integrated movement production and COSC-certified as a chronometer. Offering approximately 60 hours of power reserve, it combines the straightforward functionality of hours, minutes, centre seconds and date with the high level of movement finishing expected from the L.U.C collection.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
M 9
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Box and instructions
Est. value range
$2,000 – $3,000
The Details
Brand
Chopard
Dimensions
42mm
Model
L.U.C 1937 Classic
Movement
Automatic L.U.C calibre 01.01-L
Reference
168558-3001
Bracelet
Leather strap
Year
Circa 2012
Condition
Near mint
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Box and instructions
Dial Color
White
THE DIAL
The white lacquered dial is intentionally restrained, with large glossy black Roman numerals and a traditional railway minute track creating strong contrast against its smooth surface. Black Dauphine-style hour and minute hands incorporate luminous material, while a slender central seconds hand and discreet date aperture at six o'clock preserve the clarity of the design.
THE CONSTRUCTION
The stainless steel case measures 42mm and combines polished surfaces with vertically satin-brushed case flanks, giving an otherwise straightforward round case greater definition. Curving lugs lead into the leather strap, while a screw-down crown contributes to 50 metres of water resistance. A sapphire display back provides an uninterrupted view of the L.U.C movement.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT
This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
Condition
Watch is in overall near-mint condition. The steel case shows light signs of careful wear. The white dial and hands are in near-mint condition. It is fitted with a leather strap and steel pin buckle, both in near-mint condition. Comes with box and instruction booklet.
Please Note: Due to CITES considerations, if the watch is to be shipped outside of the USA, the exotic skin strap will have to be removed.
Our Perspective
The appeal of the L.U.C 1937 Classic lies in how little it needs to shout about what is underneath. Its white dial and Roman numerals give it the appearance of a straightforward traditional dress watch, but the manufacture calibre visible from the back tells a rather different story. COSC certification, a 60-hour reserve and genuine in-house movement construction make this an interesting expression of Chopard's serious watchmaking credentials without the complexity or pricing associated with the more elaborate L.U.C pieces.
Justin Gruenberg
Co-founder
