The Great Race

Darren Elms

“Luxury is man-made,” says Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, patriarch of the Chopard family business.

In Scheufele’s case, you could also say “self-made,” as he is primarily responsible for Chopard’s magnificent global presence. Acquiring the 100-year-old company from Paul-André Chopard in the 1960s, the young German goldsmith and watchmaker modernized the business, making the brand one of the most prestigious luxury names in the world. A completely independent, family-run business, with his two children, Karl-Friedrich and Caroline, as co-presidents, Chopard never ceases to amaze with extraordinary timepieces and exquisite jewelry, all crafted with priceless care and exceptional attention to detail.

In 2008, Chopard sponsored the legendary Mille Miglia vintage car race for the 20th time and celebrated the 20th anniversary of the famous 1000Miglia chronograph collection that has become one of the most successful watch collections of Chopard. First held in 1927, the Mille Miglia takes its competitors over a distance of 1000 miles through magnificent Italian countryside from Brescia to Rome and back again. With a passion for classic cars, co-president Karl-Friedrich has played an active part in the race since 1988. He notes the link between luxury watches and elegant vintage cars: “Lovers of fine automobiles are said to have a passion for precious timekeepers and vice versa. In both domains, extreme precision and sporting elegance play an important role”.

Two stunning metals highlight Chopard’s 2009 entry into the Mille Miglia collection, the 1000 Miglia GT XL Chrono Speed Black. A warm 18-carat rose gold on the bezel, pushers and crown contrast with the DLC (Diamond Like Carbon) blackened steel 44 mm-diameter case, water resistant to a depth of 100 meters. A black dial and black runner strap stamped with the 60’s Dunlop Racing tire-tread motif add to the watch’s rugged elegance.

The watch is Chronometer-certified by the COSC (Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute), and its chronograph movement will appeal to connoisseurs of fine mechanical engineering — whether expressed in watches or cars. Crafted in a special edition of only 500, this exceptional piece is reserved for only a limited group of individuals. Fortunately, the South Bay will feature this timepiece at Morgan’s Jewelers, 50 Peninsula Center in Rolling Hills Estates. A preferred watch and jewelery purveyor for our community, Morgan’s continually showcases remarkable pieces from the finest luxury brands.

Visit them at morgansjewelers.com or call 310-541-2052.