Introduction
Founded in 1860 and beginning life as a watchmaker specialising in chronometers and other precision timepieces that the brand focused on throughout its history. Eventually, in 1963 the brand was sold to the Scheufele family who decided to expand the watchmaker into the realm of true luxury though elaborate jewellery-inspired designs, much like the ref. 5038 that we have here. Boast an elaborate18kt yellow gold construction, this timepiece features a 42mm-wide sideways oval case with an intricate 18kt yellow gold mesh bracelet and a stunning opal stone dial that shines with a blend of blues and greens. Launched in the early 1970s and powered by a manual-wind movement, it is timepieces like this that allowed Chopard to tackle the world of high-end luxury in the fashion that they did, and continue to do, and thus create the brand today as we know it.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
V 8
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$3,000 – $5,000
The Details
Brand
Chopard
Dimensions
42mm-wide
Model
Oval Watch
Movement
Manual-wind
Reference
5038-1
Bracelet
18kt yellow gold bracelet
Year
Circa 1970
Condition
Very good
Material
18kt yellow gold
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Green (Opal)
THE DIAL
Made of opal, the semi-precious gemstone, this example's blue and green dial is perhaps the rarest dial variant to be found in vintage Chopard's timepieces, and also one of the most beautiful.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Featuring an elaborate 18kt yellow gold sideways oval-shaped case and an intricate 18kt yellow gold mesh bracelet, this example's construction is incredibly striking, especially when paired with its opal dial.
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
case size: 26.2mm L x 41.8mm W
The watch is in overall very good condition. The yellow gold case has a patterned bezel that remains well defined, and the case profile is generally strong. The case back has well-defined engravings and a still legible hallmark. The watch features an LUC-signed winding crown in excellent condition. The opal dial is in very good condition with no cracks, though there is some damage to the “Chopard Genève” text. The yellow gold hands are very clean. The watch is fitted with a yellow gold mesh-style integrated bracelet that shows some damage on the right side near the watch head. The bracelet fits an approximately 6 3/4” wrist. Please note that the watch ticks at time of cataloging, but timekeeping is poor and a service is recommended.
Our Perspective
Showcasing how vibrant design and incredible craftsmanship can combine to create a wonderfully unique watch, this ref. 5038 is a great reminder of how Chopard has been able to merge their watchmaking and jewelery-making talents to create some truly special timepieces.
Justin Gruenberg
Co-founder
