Dedicated to the most prestigious classic racing competition, the Grand Prix de Monaco Historique collection by Chopard welcomes two new limited-series chronographs. These driver’s instruments are powerful, sport and sophisticated watches paying tribute to the tenth edition of the Grand Prix de Monaco Historique, the ultimate classic event that Chopard has been partnering and serving as official timekeeper since 2002. Bodywork inspired by historical cars, an ‘engine’ chronometer-certified by the COSC, and bright orange or blue accents: these chronographs crafted in editions of 500 in titanium and stainless steel and 100 in 18-carat rose gold is the epitome of mechanical refinement, precision, and vintage design. They embody the passion for classic racing and the high horological standards nurtured by Chopard.
A partnership fuelled by passion:
The Grand Prix de Monaco Historique, held every two years since 1997, is to be run on May 14th and 15th 2016 on the legendary Monte-Carlo circuit. This prestigious competition brings together racing cars dating from the Pre-War period through to the 1970s. Chopard has been its sponsor and official timekeeper since 2002. The Grand Prix de Monaco Historique watch collection, born from the personal passion for classic cars of Chopard co-president Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, is composed of sporty watches featuring refined details inspired by this exceptional universe.
The rendezvous for passionate devotees of fine mechanics:
A key highlight in the classic racing calendar, the Grand Prix de Monaco Historique is an authentic speed trial run on the Principality’s legendary circuit. Organized by the Automobile Club de Monaco, this biennial rendezvous for passionate devotees of old-timer mechanics turns the spotlight on a wide variety of cars from the world’s finest manufacturers, divided into seven categories. Offering a stunning retrospective of models, the competition takes place along the route of the Formula 1 Grand Prix de Monaco, which is held a fortnight later. For this 10th edition of the prestigious event, two new exclusive chronographs are encapsulating the daring spirit of this intense and much sought-after race.
A driver’s ideal partner:
Designed to support the competitors taking part in the competition, the new Grand Prix de Monaco Historique 2016 Race Edition is an indispensable instrument for racing drivers as well as in various other sports activities. Accurate, rugged and perfectly readable, it comes in two versions: shot-blasted titanium and stainless steel, or 18-carat rose gold, respectively issued in 500-piece and 100-piece editions. Inspired by the design codes of classic cars, its daring and virile aesthetic together with its high-precision mechanics admirably match the adventurous mindset of participants in this speed trial.
Fitted with pushers shaped like engine pistons and a grey bezel with a tachymetric scale that is ideal for calculating average speeds during the race, the 44.5 mm-diameter case features a back engraved with the Automobile Club de Monaco logo and is secured by screws reminiscent of automobile bolts. Water-resistant to 100 metres, it is powered by a high-precision horological ‘engine’, chronometer-certified by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC). This self-winding chronograph movement, endowed with a 46-hour power reserve, offers hours, minutes, seconds, chronograph and date functions.
Two interchangeable straps set the perfect finishing touch to the sporting nature of these new timepieces: the Barenia calfskin strap with orange or blue stitching, for the vintage elegance typical of gentlemen drivers; or the grey NATO strap bearing orange or blue racing stripes for a relaxed sporty style.
That is how Chopard sees racing: performance combining mechanical excellence and impeccable ergonomics, along with the elegance inseparably bound up with the world of drivers.