Chronoswiss presents the Q-Repeater Scream and Q-Repeater Blue Note, two extraordinary Quarter Repeater timepieces that merge the sonic beauty of timekeeping with cutting-edge mechanical architecture. The watchmakers from Lucerne have created a bold reinvention of sound, design, and independent watchmaking deeply rooted in Chronoswiss history.
Housed in a Grade 5 titanium case, these 42mm skeletonized masterpieces reveal the intricate mechanisms behind their chiming complication. Every press of the 10 o’clock pusher activates the mesmerizing quarter repeater function, where hammers strike to audibly indicate the hours and quarter-hours, making time a true sensory experience.
At its core lies a legacy movement, rooted in the vision of Chronoswiss founder Gerd-Rüdiger Lang. First introduced in the 1990s and exclusively produced for Chronoswiss, this legacy caliber has been taken from our archives, meticulously restored, refined, and reborn in the Atelier Lucerne, making these two timepieces an extraordinary link between the past and the future.
What the watchmakers of Lucerne have achieved here is the ultimate evolution—the heart beats with the legacy of the past, carrying its passion and memories, while the body is Modern Mechanical, engineered for the next century and beyond.
Q-Repeater Scream – A Chiming Rebel
This is not your grandfather’s repeater. The Q-Repeater Scream is a wild, untamed spectacle—combining bold design and mechanical precision unlike anything in watchmaking. The multi-level dial is a skeletonized stage and at the same time part of the movement, where CVD-coated bridges in electric blue, orange, and purple hold the Paraiba green minute ring, the floating hour, as well as the small seconds rings. At 1 o’clock, the heart of this spectacle is fully visible: the striking hammers, set to release a mechanical rock concert at the press of a button.
As you can tell by the name already, it’s not just about what you see. It’s about what you hear. Every chime is a scream of innovation, breaking free from the traditions of classical repeater watches. Even the legacy movement itself becomes part of the gig, holding the Super-LumiNova blocks and hand-guilloché bridges—one of which moves when the mechanism is activated, adding to the dynamic energy of the dial. The watchmakers of Lucerne refer to the glowing ceramic blocks as “chicken heads”, a nod to the iconic amplifier knobs found on rock concert stages—designed to crank up the sound and electrify the crowd.
Caged in 42mm of titanium, the Q-Repeater Scream is limited to just 25 pieces. As only very few of the legacy movements exist this might be the final tour of the band. Each piece is a testament to mechanical defiance and unfiltered artistry. A Quarter Repeater like no other— built for collectors who dare to embrace the wild side of watchmaking.
Q-Repeater Blue Note – The Sound of Elegance
For those who seek a symphony rather than rock n roll, the Q-Repeater Blue Note takes a more refined yet equally innovative approach. Inspired by the expressive power of jazz and blues, the navy blue CVD-coated skeletonized dial and bridges which are part of the movement, play on contrasts with a silver hour ring and luminous white Super-LumiNova markers, creating a harmonious composition of mechanics and design.
In music, a blue note is an altered pitch—intentionally deviating from the standard, creating a sound that is richer, deeper, and full of soul. One could say – the Chronoswiss way of making watches – and music. The Q-Repeater Blue Note embodies this philosophy, blending traditional watchmaking with a contemporary edge, offering a timeless yet unconventional melody of time.
Like the Scream, the Blue Note features the multi-level regulator dial, a fully visible quarter repeater mechanism, and a restored historical movement, revised and refined by the watchmakers in Lucerne. It is a timepiece that doesn’t just mark time—it composes it.
Time Reimagined, Sound Reinvented
The Q-Repeater Scream and Q-Repeater Blue Note stand as testaments to Chronoswiss’ relentless drive to push boundaries. With only 25 pieces per model, these Quarter Repeaters are more than just rare; they are audible declarations of mechanical mastery.
This is not just a watch. It is an experience. A fusion of sound and time, crafted for those who appreciate the extraordinary.
Chronoswiss has never followed the expected path. The future of independent watchmaking starts here—with a chime.
Modell Q-Repeater
ReferenceCH-1663T-COL (Scream) / CH-1663T-BLSI (Blue Note)
Display: Decentral hour at 12 o’clock, central minute, small second at 6 o’clock. Quarter repeater function, where hammers strike to audibly indicate the hours and quarter-hours.
Case: Titanium Grade 5, ground and polished, polished bezel with fluted decorative ring, double anti-reflective sapphire crystal glass boxed; screwed and satin-finished case back with sapphire crystal, onion crown, water-resistant to 3 bar, screwed strap links. Skeletonized titanium movement holder CVD-coated. Quarter Repeater Pusher at 10 o’clock
Measurements: Ø 42mm, Height 16,2 mm, Lug to Lug 50mm, Lug Width 22mm
Movement: Chronoswiss legacy caliber C.126 automatic, repeater on two gongs, all or nothing safety, small second, dial side repeater mechanism
Diameter: Ø 28 mm
Jewels: 42
Balance Wheel: Glucydur, three sided
Balance spring: Nivarox 1, flat balance spring
Fine regulation: By eccentric
Shock protection: Incabloc
Frequency: 3 Hz., 21 600 vibrations per hour (vph)
Power Reserve: 35 hours
Special features: Skeletonized rotor with Côte de Genève polish, ball bearing; polished pallets, palletwheel and screws; circular-grained bottom plate and bridges; gold-plated facet holding ruby; bridges with Côte de Genève polish on the back side; braked and polished edges; front side bridges hand guilloched, CVD- Coated, hand-beveled & hand-polished
Dial: Decentral hour, central minute, small second at 6 o’clock; Movement & movement holder are part of the dial, skeletonized movement holder with ceramic super luminova blocks shape “chicken head” (multicolor-emission for the Scream), hour ring with rectangular ceramic Super-LumiNova blocks, skeletonized dial & bridges CVD-coated, visible Quarter Repeater hammers, gears and bridge hour ring galvanic; small second ring CVD- coated
Hands: Hands shape “Viking”, rhodium plated, horizontal satinage with Super-LumiNova
In celebration of its 160th anniversary, ZENITH proudly unveils an exceptional trio of watches reimagined in monochromatic blue, the Maison’s signature colour. Three of the most emblematic ZENITH chronographs will be offered in blue ceramic specially developed for the occasion: a CHRONOMASTER Sport, a DEFY Skyline Chronograph and a PILOT Chronograph. Available in exclusive limited editions of 160 pieces each, they can be purchased individually or in a special anniversary box set.
Legend has it that the ZENITH name was inspired by a bright, night sky full of stars. This vision came to its founder, Georges Favre-Jacot, as a reference to the highest point reached by a celestial body in the sky, symbolizing the heights of excellence to which he aspired. Since then, the Maison has been driven by a relentless pursuit of perfection in every aspect of the watchmaking art. In line with this vision and reflecting the infinity of the skies, blue has become ZENITH’s signature colour.
Durable, lightweight, soft to the touch, highly scratch-resistant, and biocompatible, ceramic is an exceptional yet demanding material. It can be produced in a vast array of colours and, unlike metals that rely on surface coatings, it is integrally coloured, which contributes to its unique sheen and depth. While producing black and white ceramic is relatively straightforward, creating a new and specific shade, such as the ZENITH’s blue, is a delicate and complex endeavor requiring months of development. Shaping and finishing ceramic components is equally challenging, demanding advanced techniques. Despite these complexities, ZENITH takes pride in finishing its ceramic watches with the same meticulous attention to detail as its gold or steel timepieces.
This new blue ceramic hue is being introduced simultaneously across three of ZENITH’s most emblematic chronographs as part of the Maison’s 160th anniversary. Released in limited editions of 160 pieces each, these watches can be purchased individually or as a set in a special anniversary box—to which the G.F.J can be added.
All three watches are available exclusively through the Maison’s physical and online boutiques, as well as authorized retailers worldwide.
“Blue has always been a defining element of ZENITH’s identity, symbolizing our connection to the sky and the pioneering spirit that has driven us for 160 years. To mark this milestone, we wanted to give our signature color a new dimension through a trilogy of ceramic chronographs. More than a tribute to our heritage, these timepieces embody the spirit of innovation and craftsmanship that continue to shape the future of our Maison. We are proud to celebrate this anniversary with such a bold and meaningful creation.”Benoît de Clerck, CEO of ZENITH WATCHES.
PILOT BIG DATE FLYBACK 160th ANNIVERSARY EDITION
Introduced in 2023, the ZENITH PILOT is the result of the Maison’s enduring fascination with aviation. Georges Favre-Jacot, the Maison’s founder, filed a trademark for the French term “Pilote” as early as 1888 and for the English term “Pilot” in 1904. ZENITH soon became a prominent manufacturer of pilot watches and dashboard instruments, with its timepieces accompanying remarkable individuals who dared to dream big and achieve the impossible, including Louis Blériot, the first person to fly across the English Channel in 1909.
As the Maison celebrates its 160th anniversary, the PILOT Big Date Flyback is unveiled in a striking monochrome blue version, featuring a matching case, dial, and strap. Crafted from micro-blasted ceramic in a new, bright blue shade, the 42.5 mm case is complemented by a titanium crown and rectangular push-pieces. The hands and large Arabic numerals on the corrugated dial are coated with luminescent material, ensuring optimal legibility under all conditions.
Powering the PILOT Big Date Flyback Edition 160th anniversary edition is the El Primero 3652 calibre—an evolution of ZENITH’s legendary high-frequency automatic chronograph. This movement integrates both a big date and a flyback function. The big date display, with two large digits, guarantees exceptional readability, while a patented compliant mechanism enables the date to change in just 0.007 seconds. True to pilot chronograph traditions, the flyback function allows pilots to reset and restart the chronograph with a single push, streamlining calculations during flight by eliminating the need for the conventional three-step start-stop-reset sequence. The movement, visible through the sapphire case back, is adorned with a customized rotor featuring a 160th-anniversary emblem.
This exclusive 160-piece limited edition is delivered with a blue Cordura-effect rubber strap and an additional white Cordura-effect strap, both secured with a steel triple-folding clasp. A user-friendly strap-change system enables quick and tool-free swapping, enhancing versatility and comfort.
Effortlessly bridging heritage and modernity, the DEFY Skyline Chronograph is a contemporary successor to the 1969 DEFY—a robust and daring model distinguished by its architectural case and multi-faceted bezel. Since its introduction in 2024, the collection has been offered in various steel versions. Now, in celebration of the brand’s 160th anniversary, it is reimagined with an even bolder aesthetic. For the first time, it is crafted entirely in ceramic, featuring ZENITH’s signature blue in a shade specifically developed by the brand. The deep hue of the faceted 42 mm case and bracelet is echoed on the dial, adorned with an engraved geometric motif inspired by the brand’s four-pointed star.
At its heart lies the El Primero 3600 calibre, a modern evolution of ZENITH’s legendary high-frequency chronograph, originally introduced in 2019. This movement uniquely displays 1/10th of a second with remarkable clarity, with the chronograph seconds hand completing a full revolution every 10 seconds—six times faster than the standard chronograph. Operating at a frequency of 5 Hz, it ensures precise 1/10th-of-a-second measurements aligned with the chapter ring’s graduations. A stop-seconds mechanism allows for accurate time setting, while the movement, visible through the sapphire case back, features a satin-brushed oscillating weight engraved with a “160th Anniversary” inscription.
Designed for ultimate versatility, the DEFY Skyline Chronograph Edition 160th anniversary edition incorporates a user-friendly quick strap-change system seamlessly integrated into the case. With a simple push of a button, the three-link ceramic bracelet can be effortlessly swapped for the accompanying star-patterned blue rubber strap, secured with a steel folding clasp.
CHRONOMASTER SPORT 160th ANNIVERSARY EDITION
The culmination of a unique legacy of chronographs, the CHRONOMASTER Sport showcases the brand’s mastery of high-frequency timekeeping in a sporty design that is contemporary yet unmistakably ZENITH. For the 160th anniversary of the Maison, the quintessential ZENITH sporty-chic chronograph is made available for the first time in blue ceramic. The lines of the sleek 41 mm case, with pump-style pushers and faceted lugs, are accented by alternating brushed and polished surfaces. Its striking blue hue extends to the lacquered-finished dial, which features the brand’s signature 3-6-9 tricolour overlapping counters. The faceted markers, along with the hour, minute, and second hands, are coated with luminescent material, while the chronograph hands are highlighted with a red tip.
The CHRONOMASTER Sport is powered by the El Primero 3600, the result of 56 years of refining ZENITH’s celebrated high-frequency chronograph. Operating at 36,000 vph, it delivers 1/10th of a second chronograph readings on its bezel as the central chronograph seconds hand completes one full rotation around the dial in just 10 seconds. Its intricate architecture is visible through the sapphire display case back, revealing the column wheel, horizontal clutch, and a special “160th Anniversary” openworked oscillating weight.
The CHRONOMASTER Sport 160th anniversary edition comes with two straps: a blue ceramic bracelet with a ceramic folding clasp and a blue rubber strap with a steel folding clasp.
PILOT BIG DATE FLYBACK 160th ANNIVERSARY EDITION
Reference: 49.4002.3652/51.I009
Key points: Exclusive blue ceramic edition for the 160th Anniversary of the Brand.
Automatic El Primero column-wheel chronograph with flyback function.
Patented Big Date at 6 o’clock.
Instantaneous Big Date jump in 0.007 sec (0.02 for discs jump & stabilization).
Stop-second mechanism.
Interchangeable strap system.
Movement: El Primero 3652 automatic
Frequency: 36,000 VpH (5 Hz)
Power reserve: 60 hours
Functions: Hours and minutes in the center. Small seconds at 9 o’clock
Instantaneous Big Date at 6 o’clock. Flyback Chronograph. 30-minute counter at 3 o’clock.
Finishes: Special “160th Anniversary” oscillating weight with satined finishings.
Price: 15’400 CHF / 16’500 Euros / 15’900 USD
Material: Blue microblasted ceramic.
Water resistance: 10 ATM
Case: 41mm / Thickness: 14.25 mm / Lug to lug: 52 mm
Dial: Blue dial with horizontal grooves.
Hour markers: Applied arabic numerals in SuperLuminova SLN C1.
Hands: Blue & white with SLN C1.
Bracelet & Buckle: Comes with 2 straps: Blue cordura effect rubber strap and a white cordura effect strap. Steel triple folding clasp.
Key points: Exclusive blue ceramic edition for the 160th Anniversary of the Brand.
Automatic El Primero column-wheel chronograph able to measure and display 1/10th of a second.
Date indication. Silicon escape-wheel and lever. Screwed-in crown.
Full Interchangeable strap system. Stop-second mechanism.
Movement: El Primero 3600 automatic
Frequency: 36,000 VpH (5 Hz)
Power reserve: 60 hours
Functions: 1/10th of a second chronograph functions. Hours and minutes in the center.
Small seconds at 9 o’clock.
Central chronograph hand that makes one turn in 10 seconds, 60-minute counter at 6 o’clock,
60-second counter at 3 o’clock. Date indication at 4:30 o’clock.
Finishes: Special “160th Anniversary” oscillating weight with satined finishings
Price: 22’900 CHF / 24’800 Euros / 23’800 USD
Material: Blue Ceramic
Water resistance: 10 ATM
Case: 42mm / Thickness: 12.7 mm / Lug to lug: 47.4 mm
Dial: Blue-toned sunray starry sky pattern
Hour markers: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1
Hands: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1
Bracelet & Buckle: Comes with 2 straps: Blue ceramic bracelet with a double folding clasp and blue rubber strap with steel folding clasp.
CHRONOMASTER SPORT 160th ANNIVERSARY EDITION
Reference: 49.3102.3600/51.M3100
Key points: Exclusive blue ceramic edition for the 160th Anniversary of the Brand.
Automatic El Primero column-wheel chronograph able to measure and display 1/10th of a second.
Power reserve of 60 hours. Date indication at 4:30.
Stop-second mechanism.
Movement: El Primero 3600 automatic
Frequency: 36,000 VpH (5 Hz)
Power reserve: 60 hours
Functions: 1/10th of a second chronograph functions. Hours and minutes in the center.
Small seconds at 9 o’clock.
Central chronograph hand that makes one turn in 10 seconds,
60-minute counter at 6 o’clock, 60-second counter at 3 o’clock.
Date indication at 4:30 o’clock
Finishes: Special “160th Anniversary” oscillating weight with satined finishings
Price: 21’900 CHF / 23’700 Euros / 22’700 USD
Material: Blue ceramic
Water resistance: 10 ATM
Case: 41mm / Thickness: 13.6 mm / Lug to lug: 47 mm
Dial: Blue-tones lacquered with three different-coloured counters
Hour markers: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1
Hands: Rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova SLN C1
Bracelet & Buckle: Comes with 2 straps: Blue ceramic bracelet with ceramic folding clasp and blue rubber strap with steel folding clasp.
From Earth’s treasures to dazzling Haute Joaillerie: a commitment to traceability, bold creativity and masterful craftsmanship
Chopard is unveiling its latest opus of the Insofu Emerald: an extraordinary fusion uniting the forces of nature, the concern for traceable and sustainable luxury, and the Maison’s boundless creativity to give birth to a one-of-a-kind Haute Joaillerie collection that is as mesmerising as it is rich in significance.
For the second time in its history, Chopard has taken the bold step of devising an Haute Joaillerie collection, not from a set of cut and polished gemstones, but instead from a raw stone, full of both promise and uncertainties. Such a scheme is unusual for a jeweller, but to Chopard, it represents a guarantee of traceability, and an opportunity to work in closer collaboration with those at the beginning of the supply chain.
After the Garden of Kalahari Collection – born from a 342-carat rough diamond in 2017 – the story of the Insofu Collection began in 2022 in Paris, when Caroline Scheufele, Chopard’s visionary Co-President and Artistic Director, unveiled an astonishing 6,225-carat rough emerald, unearthed in Zambia a few years prior. Awestruck, the miners named it Insofu, meaning “elephant” in the local Bemba language — a nod to its trunk-like shape and unprecedented colossal size. Captivated in turn by its vivid colour, shifting hues, and unique character, Caroline Scheufele acquired the gem, sure it would yield stones destined to become the centrepiece of extraordinary jewels. Unlike a rough diamond, whose yield in terms of diamond types and carats can be determined by specific tools with scientific precision, a rough emerald is an even bolder undertaking, as the stone only reveals its true potential during the fraught cutting process.
Chopard brought the world’s most skilled gem-cutters from India to its Geneva workshops to meticulously study the gem and propose cuts and facets to reveal its inherent beauty, while preserving its unique soul. This proved to be a lengthy and delicate venture lasting nearly a year, given emeralds are notoriously fragile and demand the utmost expertise. Their internal inclusions, known as “jardin,” require careful handling: cutting too close to them may create fractures that can spread across the gem. Moreover, it is essential to ensure the inclusions’ position does not overshadow the stone’s brilliance. Ultimately, the Insofu gem yielded 850 carats of breathtaking emeralds, each a testament to the artisans’ unparalleled skill and dedication.
The first chapter of the Insofu Collection debuted last year during Oscars week, with the release of a parure composed of a necklace, a pair of earrings and a ring. This capsule collection paired emeralds from Insofu with juicy-red rubellites and touches of sky blue turquoise, offering a glimpse into Chopard’s bold creative vision for this exceptional stone.
This year, Chopard unveils a new chapter with an Haute Joaillerie collection of 15 exquisite pieces — five pairs of earrings, four necklaces, three rings, a bracelet and a jewellery watch. Each jewel reflects a different facet of the Insofu Emerald’s character, drawing influences from the organic and fluid lines of nature, abstract forms, and the rigorous elegance of Art Deco. Their unifying element lies in the embodiment of the joie de vivre so vividly portrayed by Francis Scott Fitzgerald in The Great Gatsby.
A ring in ethical 18-carat white gold set with a 13.04-carat emerald-cut emerald, pear-shaped diamonds (2.33 cts) and brilliants. Ref. 82A501-1001
Ring in ethical 18-carat white gold set with an 11.17-carat heart-shaped emerald and brilliant-cut diamonds (3.70 cts).Ref. 82A515-1001
Ring in ethical 18-carat white gold and platinum set with an 11.43-carat emerald-cut emerald as well as brilliant-cut diamonds (1.80 ct) and emeralds (0.71 ct).
Ref. 82A516-9001
One gem, a multitude of jewels
At the heart of the Collection is an elephant-shaped pendant – a tribute to the name Insofu. This signature piece features emeralds of various shapes and sizes, framed by shimmering diamonds that form the elephant’s tusks. It is suspended from a long chain interspersed with emeralds and diamonds. Notably, the elephant’s trunk is raised upward – a gesture replete with symbolism, representing prosperity and good fortune.
The collection also includes elegant Art Deco-inspired chokers, flowing long necklaces almost grazing the waist, evoking the audacity of the Roaring Twenties, a statement cuff, imposing cocktail rings, and showstopping earrings. The extravagance of the era vividly depicted by Francis Scott Fitzgerald’s masterpiece The Great Gatsby (1925) is expressed through a one-of-a-kind ensemble of four necklaces, forming a singular set — endless possibilities for styling that celebrate personal expression. At its heart is a refined diamond choker, twinkling with a vibrant 2.50-carat square-cut emerald. This is elegantly complemented by a second necklace festooned with pink sapphires and emeralds, holding an extraordinary 15.53-carat octagonal emerald. Bringing an element of fluidity to the set, a long necklace interlaces emeralds, pearls, and diamonds, creating a captivating harmony of textures and colours. A delicate sautoir of pink pearls adds a touch of softness to this remarkable set and perfectly balances out the bolder pieces.
A suite of necklaces comprising :
– A necklace in ethical 18-carat white gold set with a central 6.61-carat emerald-cut emerald as well as pear-shaped (14.08 cts), oval-shaped (9.06 cts), marquise-cut (5.63 cts) and brilliant-cut diamonds.
Ref. 810602-1001
– A tie necklace in ethical 18-carat white gold set with three emerald-cut emeralds (10.86 cts) as well as brilliant-cut, pear-shaped and marquise-cut diamonds totaling 22.41 carats.
Ref. 810603-1001
Pendant in ethical 18-carat white gold and platinum set with pear-shaped (24.97 cts), oval-shaped (21.75 cts) and brilliant-cut (0.46 ct) emeralds, as well as diamond brilliants (2.04 cts).
Ref. 790182-9001
A choker with a central motif in ethical 18-carat white gold set with a 14.08-carat emerald-cut emerald, as well as pear-shaped (4.48 cts), marquise and brilliant-cut diamonds, featured on a velvet ribbon enhanced with pearls.
Ref. 81A501-1001
A suite of necklaces comprising:
– A pearl sautoir.
Ref. 810590-1001
– A necklace in ethical 18-carat white gold featuring pearls, set with emerald- and brilliant-cut emeralds (totaling 2.43 carats) as well as diamond brilliants (4.66 cts).
Ref. 810591-1001
– A necklace in ethical 18-carat white gold set with a central 15.53-carat emerald-cut emerald, brilliant-cut emeralds (1.71 ct), fancy-cut pink sapphires (totaling 15.53 carats) and diamond brilliants (0.73 ct).
Ref. 810592-1001
– A choker in ethical 18-carat white gold set with a central emerald-cut emerald (2.88 cts) and brilliant-cut diamonds (6.88 cts).
Ref. 810593-1001
Against a backdrop of tightly woven pearls, a vertical motif of emerald-studded foliage gracefully weaves through a statement cuff, delicately embracing vibrant emerald-cut tsavorites. The smooth, soft, rounded pearls juxtaposed against the sharp facets of the stones create a refined interplay of textures and forms. The design elegantly unites the sea, embodied by the pearls, and the earth, represented by the verdant leaves. Together, they recall the symbiosis of these two realms of nature.
“In every stone lies a story, and my role is to listen and honour the natural magic they carry as treasures from the Earth,” says Caroline Scheufele. “With the Insofu Collection, it was about respecting this inherent beauty. I chose the finest quality stones from the heart of the emerald, pairing them with diamonds, pink sapphires, and pearls”.
A creative soul with multiple talents, who thinks of women’s beauty holistically, Caroline Scheufele has chosen to accompany this collection with five matching gowns showcasing the craftsmanship of Caroline’s Couture – her collection of couture silhouettes designed as a dialogue between fashion and jewellery. The Insofu Collection thus brings together all the Métiers d’Art preserved by Chopard’s artisans.
Traceability: a sustainable achievement
Convinced that ethics and aesthetics must coexist, Chopard pioneered the use of the Provenance Proof’s Emerald Paternity Test developed by Gübelin Gem Lab. This cutting-edge method involves injecting DNA-based nanoparticles into the gem’s natural fissures which remain intact through cutting and polishing. This marking is permanent, allowing the rough stone to be identified for life. Even decades from now, a simple examination will trace the jewels to their original rough gem, safeguarding an intact link to their exact origin. This innovative technology further elevates Chopard’s sustainability standards, most notably as the Maison has used 100% ethical gold in all its jewellery and watches since July 2018.
“Traceability is more than a technical advancement; it is an ethical achievement,” Caroline Scheufele explains. “The Insofu Collection reflects our belief that true beauty results from a genuine commitment to society and ethical practices.”
Supporting community and conservation projects
Gemfields, the mining company that unearthed Insofu in the Kagem mine in Zambia, has long participated in the development of the communities where its mines operate and championed wildlife conservation projects. At the Kagem Mine, Gemfields funds projects that benefit education, healthcare, and livelihoods, as well as initiatives to protect Zambia’s flora and fauna. Chopard’s collaboration with Gemfields ensures that the Insofu Collection contributes to these meaningful initiatives, aligning with the Maison’s dedication positively impacting society.
Elephant family: a meaningful collaboration
Caroline Scheufele’s decision to unveil this collection in collaboration with the charity Elephant Family is much more than an obvious reference to the name of the gem – (Insofu meaning ‘elephant’). Linking the discovery of this natural marvel with a meaningful cause further underscores Chopard’s genuine dedication to sustainable luxury, as well as Caroline Scheufele long-standing passion for nature and endangered animals. The charitable dimension imbues this collection with profound meaning, perfectly complementing the Maison’s pioneering spirit in innovation, creativity, and the pursuit of sustainable luxury. Part of the profits from each piece sold in the collection will be donated to support Elephant Family and its actions.
Elephant Family exclusively works in partnership with conservation experts on the ground to tackle the challenges facing Asia’s wildlife and the indigenous communities that live alongside them. As human populations expand and natural habitats shrink, people and animals are fighting a battle for food and space. Its efforts focus on mitigating human-elephant conflict, safeguarding migratory corridors, and fostering community engagement to promote a culture of coexistence. Elephant Family is uniquely positioned to support communities to thrive alongside wildlife, and to ensure that Asia’s biodiverse landscapes remain truly wild for generations to come.
“The final reveal of the Insofu Collection is a moment I have long awaited, one that could only be realised by aligning it with a meaningful cause to protect wildlife and nature – passions that have been close to my heart for many years,” says Caroline Scheufele. “I am deeply grateful to everyone involved – from the miners and stone cutters to our jewellery artisans – who contributed to shaping the extraordinary destiny of this unique gem. I also extend my heartfelt thanks to the Elephant Family for this collaboration, which I hope will help shed light on the vital importance of conservation.”
Chopard’s pioneering spirit
Purchasing rough stones is a rarity for jewellery Maisons, yet Chopard demonstrates its pioneering spirit with the acquisition of this remarkable gem, which also incorporates the most advanced technology in traceability— a testament to Chopard’s enduring passion for exceptional gemstones and openness to the future.
In 2017, the Maison unveiled the Garden of Kalahari collection, created exclusively from an extraordinary 342-carat rough diamond, responsibly sourced and cut into several D-flawless diamonds of unmatched brilliance.
Cuff bracelet composed of ten strands of pearls, featuring a floral motif ethical 18-carat white gold set with six emerald-cut emeralds (16.58 cts), brilliant-cut Paraiba tourmalines (2.09 cts) and brilliant-cut diamonds (3.52 cts).
Ref. 850388-1001
Floral earrings in ethical 18-carat white gold, platinum and titanium set with two emerald-cut emeralds (11 cts), pear-shaped emeralds (3.54 cts) and brilliant-cut diamonds.
Ref. 840518-9001
Jewellery watch in ethical 18-carat white gold set with pear-shaped (6.05 cts) and brilliant-cut (1.87 ct) emeralds, as well as pear-shaped (11.80 cts) and brilliant-cut diamonds. Fully diamond-set dial. Grey satin strap.
Ref. 134154-1002
The latest collection, comprising 15 exquisite pieces, stands as a masterpiece born of the collective expertise of over 30 artisans from Chopard’s Haute Joaillerie workshops, as well as specialised gem-cutters from India. With Insofu, Chopard has ensured comprehensive oversight of every step in its journey, from its raw state to the final creation. Furthermore, by overseeing every stage of the jewellery-making process in-house – from cutting gemstones and casting ethical gold to prototyping, gem-setting, and polishing – the workshops uphold an unbroken chain of traceability and are able to guarantee the most exceptional craftsmanship in pursuit of Chopard’s journey to sustainable luxury.
Earrings in ethical 18-carat white gold set with four emerald-cut emeralds (15.91 cts) and two emerald-cut diamonds.
Ref. 840517-1001
Ring in ethical 18-carat white gold set with a 9.44-carat cushion-shaped emerald, pear-shaped diamonds (2.42 cts) and brilliants (3.40 cts).
Ref. 820022-1005
Earrings in ethical 18-carat white gold set with two emerald-cut emeralds (20.95 cts), pear-shaped diamonds (4.48 cts) and brilliants. Ref. 84A501-1001
20 years can seem like a long time. But time is relative, and in the case of the Big Bang, two decades have gone by in a blink. In that time, Hublot has forged itself into the undisputed leader of innovation in materials, design and technicity. Hublot and its Big Bang have gone from one showstopper to another, ceaselessly reinventing the codes and building on a spirit of revolution, audacity and playfulness. With many world-firsts and genre-defying feats, the Big Bang will go down in history as the first truly iconic watch of the 21st century and a beacon of creativity in a field that’s usually confined by history and tradition. A true point of singularity, after which nothing can be the same.
To celebrate the 20th anniversary of the manufacture’s most emblematic collection, Hublot has revisited some of the most significant milestones in the collection’s history in a true act of fusion, combining the original Big Bang’s design with the current Big Bang Unico, resulting in five limited edition
Big Bang models. Each of the five editions combines the most emblematic details from the first Big Bang models and the later Big Bang Unico, making these 20th anniversary pieces commemorative by bridging the past, present and future of the Big Bang.
All five models feature a redesigned case with the distinctive layered construction that recalls the earliest Big Bangs with pinched lugs and a knurled bezel edge, as well as the distinctive Big Bang silhouette. The engraved dials with a carbon fibre-inspired relief motif feature the iconic riveted Arabic
numerals and indexes and, just like the original Big Bangs, but this time filled with Super-LumiNova like the Big Bang Unico models.
The dial features two counters, one for the small seconds at 9 o’clock and one for the minutes of the chronograph at 3 o’clock, though now driven by the Unico automatic manufacture chronograph movement, with a commemorative gold rotor marking the 20th anniversary of this modern icon. The structured rubber strap with a treaded lozenge pattern, reminiscent of the very first Big Bangs, is fastened to the case using the Big Bang Unico’s One Click strap-change mechanism integrated in the case. With these five editions, Hublot sought to highlight a selection of materials that stand out as the
manufacture’s source of pride, which have earned it immense expertise to create truly outstanding pieces.
TITANIUM CERAMIC & KING GOLD CERAMIC
Back to where it all begins, the original fusion. When the Big Bang entered the scene in 2005, it did so with two versions that would set the tone for the collection according to the philosophy of the “Art of fusion”, earning Hublot and the Big Bang world recognition. The combination of steel or gold, fibreglass, rubber and ceramic with a patterned dial recalling the woven look of carbon fibre and just a touch of red is immediately identifiable. For the Big Bang 20th Anniversary editions, limited to 500 pieces in titanium ceramic and 250 pieces in King Gold ceramic, Hublot has optimized every detail. The case features a new 43mm diameter, with slightly curved pinched lugs. The polished bezel brings back the knurled bezel edge that was a prominent feature of the earliest Big Bang models. It also marks the reappearance of the rubber-tipped rectangular pushers found in the first Big Bang references, along with the textured lozenge patterned rubber strap, which is easily swappable thanks the One-Click system integrated in the case.
The carbon-patterned dial has also been redesigned for an even more dramatic three-dimensional visual impact and more pronounced interplay of shadows and textures. Taking cues from the Big Bang Unico, the Arabic numerals and hour markers are filled with Super-LumiNova for optimal legibility in all situations. The red accents on the chronograph indicators further enhance the readability. Powered by the Unico automatic flyback chronograph manufacture calibre, the Big Bang 20th anniversary pieces feature a special gold oscillating weight, and a specially engraved crown with rubber insert features a special Hublot 20th anniversary logo.
RED CERAMIC
Ceramic has always played an integral role in the genesis and evolution of the Big Bang. But what Hublot has done in the past years is truly pushing the envelope by producing ceramic in vivid colours that the world of watchmaking has never seen before. No small feat, coloured ceramic are extremely difficult to master. From selecting the right pigments to applying the right pressures and temperatures to maintain the material’s structural integrity and keep the colour homogenous, a lot of trial and error is required to get it just right as the process has to be adapted for each colour. The first of Hublot’s in-house developed and made coloured ceramics was red ceramic, first unveiled in 2018. To mark this important achievement as the first of many developments in which Hublot stands at the forefront of innovation, the Big Bang 20th Anniversary Red Magic edition of 100 pieces completes the quintet of commemorative pieces. The combination of bright red ceramic with a carbon-patterned dial is as evocative as it is boldly and proudly singular.
ALL BLACK
Few design codes have been as dramatic and game-changing in contemporary watch design as Hublot’s All Black. A daring and unprecedented concept first unveiled in 2006 with the first Big Bang All Black limited edition, the watch broke all the norms that we had come to expect from a luxury timepiece. The focus wasn’t functionality or readability, but to a bold concept of “invisible visibility” whereby stripping away all colours and light offers a mesmerizing and stealthy allure where even the most miniscule details shine under a different light. For the 20th anniversary of the Big Bang, Hublot is once again reinterpreting this defiant concept in the Big Bang 20th Anniversary All Black Edition.
Crafted in matte & polished black ceramic, the 43mm case gives way to a black carbon-pattern dial, marking the first time such a combination has occurred in a Big Bang All Black model. A limited edition of 500 pieces, this commemorative edition is sure to please those who are nostalgic for the early Big Bang years or simply seeking a bold, individual expression.
MAGIC GOLD
One of Hublot’s first forays into the world of advanced materials, Magic Gold truly lives up to its name. Announced in 2011 as the world’s first and only scratch-resistant 18-karat gold alloy, Magic Gold represents all that the Hublot’s R&D department seeks to pursue: New solutions for creativity and alleviating the shortcomings of traditional materials and metals. Magic Gold combines the resilience of ceramic with shine and lustre of gold, resulting in a unique material that exhibits a golden hue with a slight green tent, and a hardness that makes it impervious to scratches and oxidation. Developed at the Hublot manufacture and produced within its own foundry, Magic Gold is the stuff of science-fiction. A limited edition of 100 pieces, the Big Bang 20th Anniversary Magic Gold edition combines the unique 18-karat gold alloy with a carbon-patterned dial and gilt hands and markers for the perfect futuristic contrast of tones and textures.
On the commemorative Big Bang 20th Anniversary editions, Hublot CEO Julien Tornare shared, “The Hublot Big Bang is undoubtedly one of the modern icons of 21st century watchmaking. This year, we’re not only looking back at all that Hublot has achieved through the Big Bang, but also looking towards the future and all the potential it still holds and possibilities it offers. I am immensely proud of what the Big Bang 20th Anniversary capsule collection represents by bridging the nostalgia of 20 years ago with the present and future of what the Hublot manufacture is capable of accomplishing. Here’s to the next 20 years!”
