Chopard L.U.C Lunar One 161927-5001
About This Watch
The Chopard L.U.C Lunar One features one of the most innovative moon phase displays in watchmaking: an orbital representation that shows the moon's position relative to the Earth and Sun, rather than the traditional waxing/waning disc. The large orbital moon phase display at 6 o'clock shows a golden moon that orbits the dial once per lunar cycle, with the illuminated portion changing as it moves — accurately representing the astronomical reality. The perpetual calendar mechanism tracks day, date, month, and leap year with no correction needed until 2100. The caliber L.U.C 96.13-L with Twin barrel technology provides a 65-hour power reserve, and both COSC and Geneva Seal certifications confirm its precision and finishing. The silver guilloché dial with engine-turned texture provides a rich backdrop for the multiple displays. The 43mm rose gold case accommodates the complex dial with excellent legibility. The Lunar One demonstrates Chopard's ability to innovate within the traditionally conservative world of perpetual calendars, offering both mechanical excellence and a genuinely fresh approach to displaying astronomical information.
In-Depth Review
# Chopard L.U.C Lunar One Editorial
Chopard's mastery of complications shines through the L.U.C Lunar One, a perpetual calendar moonphase that represents the house's commitment to mechanical refinement rather than flashy innovation. Introduced in 2013, this 43mm rose gold sport-elegant piece houses the caliber L.U.C 96.13-L, a column-wheel automatic movement delivering an impressive 65-hour power reserve at 28,800 vph. The real sophistication lies in its orbital moon phase complication, which tracks lunar cycles with remarkable accuracy, paired with a perpetual calendar that requires no adjustment until the year 2100. The silver guilloché dial and brown alligator strap create a distinctly understated aesthetic that avoids the decorative excess common at this price point, while the 12mm thickness keeps proportions refined despite the case's substantial diameter.
This watch suits collectors who prioritize horological substance over brand prestige and appreciate complications with genuine practical merit. The ideal owner understands that a perpetual calendar's mathematical complexity justifies its presence, and views the moonphase as more than decoration. At $52,500 MSRP—currently trading around $42,000—this piece targets serious horologyphiles with the patience to appreciate its nuances.
In the ultra-luxury segment, the L.U.C Lunar One competes directly with models like the Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar 5320 and Jaeger-LeCoultre's Master Perpetual Calendar. While the Patek Philippe commands roughly double the price through brand cachet, the Chopard offers comparable movement finishing and arguably superior practicality. Against these alternatives, Chopard's L.U.C line represents compelling value for purists unimpressed by logo equity
Specifications
Movement
| Movement Type | Automatic |
|---|---|
| Caliber | Chopard L.U.C 96.13-L |
| Power Reserve | 65 hours |
| Frequency | 28,800 vph |
| Jewels | 33 |
Case
| Case Diameter | 43.0mm |
|---|---|
| Case Thickness | 12.0mm |
| Case Material | 18k Rose Gold |
| Crystal | Sapphire with anti-reflective coating |
| Bezel | Fixed, polished |
| Dial Color | Silver Guilloché |
| Lug Width | 22mm |
| Lug-to-Lug | 50.0mm |
Features
| Water Resistance | 30m / 98ft |
|---|---|
| Bracelet/Strap | Brown alligator leather strap |
| Clasp | 18k rose gold folding clasp |
| Weight | 92g |
| Complications |