Photo by Andrew Daley
Guy Bove, Chopard Designer described the new hand-shape as 'dauphine fusee'. Since 'dauphine' means 'runner' and 'fusee' means 'rocket', 'rocket runner' actually can be visualised. Each hand has a rocket plume at the base, running to the traditional dauphine runner point.
In an interview by Andrew Daley about the development of the new LUC 1963 Chronograph PuristS' Edition , Mr Bove describes how the dauphine fusee hands reflect most available light whatever the position.
(CLICK the following URL to read report)
Photo by Andrew Daley
“The new hands have been a little controversial. However they are actually based on the traditional dauphine hand design but are superior and something unique to the L.U.C. range. They are very hard to make and so far no one has been able to copy them. The front part is conical and the back part (much to the dismay of the hand maker) is faceted. There is actually only one hand manufacture that is able to achieve this. Going from this height, down to the curve with the facet at the back is next to impossible.
The inspiration for the hands came from old compasses with the pointer coming out of the arm so the design is like a pincer holding a precise point. We talk a lot about precision of our movements (they are all COSC certified) and I wanted to express this on the dial side as well with this pointer hand design. The slender hand coming down to a point hides as little as possible of the counters compared to a traditional dauphine hand.”
Photo by Andrew Daley
Regards,
MTF
L.U.C 1937 On the Wrist Review
L.U.C 1937 On the Wrist Review Several weeks ago I came across an L.U.C 1937 in stainless steel that yearned to be on my wrist. Okay, truth told, it was all our friend Daos’ fault — she made me buy it! (She has these powers — it is true!) Mine, as I said,...
Great review!
Thanks a lot for this comprehensive review and for the pictures. It is a watch I also appreciate even if I'm not 100% convinced by the hands. Thanks Jed! Fx
Thanks Fx. Those hands...
well, I took some time to warm up to them. I had no frame of reference for them. No way to categorize them. But I I have come to really enjoy and appreciate them. They are meticulously crafted, with angles, curves, polishing and inlay of luminous that can...
Thanks Jed, great review on a much undrappreciated
watch. The finishing, blending of old and new elements in such an artistic way, create a style that really appeals to me. It is a great watch to wear and always receives so many interesting comments. I still maintain Chopard is one of the great values on ...
Thanks, Tim.
Really looking forward, now, to the PuristS Edition 1963 Chrono. (And hoping the wait won't be too much longer!) Best, CaliforniaJed
Chopard 'dauphine fusee' watch hands
Photo by Andrew Daley Guy Bove, Chopard Designer described the new hand-shape as 'dauphine fusee'. Since 'dauphine' means 'runner' and 'fusee' means 'rocket', 'rocket runner' actually can be visualised. Each hand has a rocket plume at the base, running to...
Fantastic reply, MTF. (And thanks AndrewD again for the great coverage of your trip!)
"Rocket Runners"! Brilliant. "Dauphine Fusee" is of course elegant, but this is one of those rare instances where I believe the English language does the better job! I must find reason to use "Rocket Runner" at least once a week from now on! Best, Jed
Rocket Ron and Racing Ralph....
Sounds like the tyres on my bicycle. I'm switching from a pair of Schwalbe 'Racing Ralph' to 'Rocket Ron' tyres soon. :-) MTF
Very good but very little exposed model, as always....
Jed, a great report. This one has been ticking in my head. Superb finish and the quality is as always top notch. Would love to handle it in person sometime soon. Very nice watch and review, indeed. Thanks! Ken
Aw, c'mon, Jed - admit it! . . .
. . . Daos only made a suggestion. You were in the driver's seat all along ;-) . . .
You know her evil ways, Art!
I won't say she made me, but she can be very persuasive!! Best, CaliforniaJed
