Chopard’s Zagato Lab One watch blends watchmaking expertise with automotive aesthetics, featuring a ceramic-coated titanium case and a tourbillon movement produced in a limited edition of just twenty pieces.
The Chopard Zagato Lab One Concept, in a sense, marries Swiss watchmaking expertise with Italian automotive design. According to Chopard, this watch was born out of a collaboration with the coachbuilder Zagato, with the goal of translating the spirit of concept cars into a product available in stores. The tubular case is somewhat reminiscent of the roll bars often seen in race cars, and it visually blends with the movement’s mainplate.
A road-going concept brought to the wrist
The case, which measures 42 mm in diameter, is made of ceramic-coated titanium—an alloy treated to resist scratches while remaining lightweight. According to the brand’s product specifications, the watch weighs 43.2 g with the strap, placing it among the lightest in its category. However, it’s worth noting that Hodinkee lists a weight of 36.5 g without the strap—which, as you can see, is different. This discrepancy is something to keep in mind if weight is a priority for you. The adjustable lugs are also a plus for comfort, allowing the watch to be adapted to different wrist sizes.
This model is equipped with the L.U.C 04.04-L caliber: hand-wound, with a 60-hour power reserve and a frequency of 4 Hz. In addition, there’s a tourbillon at 6 o’clock, housed in a lightweight aluminum cage to improve dynamics. What’s interesting is that the movement’s mainplate doubles as the dial, and it’s decorated with Zagato’s famous “Z,” as can be seen in several images of the watch. Moreover, sources such as TimeandWatches and LaCôteDesMontres confirm that the bridges and mainplate are also made of ceramic-coated titanium.
Limited Edition and Positioning
Chopard is offering this timepiece in a very limited series: only nineteen pieces. The suggested retail price is around 130,000 CHF
, according to Chopard itself and the specialized press. It’s safe to say that this watch is aimed at a clientele of collectors who appreciate exclusive, conceptual projects and horological excellence. Essentially, it finds its place in a world where art and automobiles intersect.
Reviews have been largely positive regarding the product’s aesthetic and technical aspects. For example, WristReview notes that the visual integration between the case and the movement gives it a conceptual look while remaining elegant. Hodinkee really emphasizes that the watch is ultra-lightweight. And sites like TimeandWatches and LaCôteDesMontres point out that, in terms of materials and Zagato’s design, everything is cohesive. That said, it’s also important to pay attention to the weight figures: with two different sources, it’s best to double-check the exact weight before making a purchase.
This partnership between Chopard and Zagato is part of a series of collaborations already undertaken between the world of fine watchmaking and automotive design. The specialized magazine notes that this watch follows in the footsteps of the “motor-inspired” pieces already offered by Chopard, while taking the idea of a “marketable concept” a step further. For enthusiasts, it’s a beautiful blend of lightness, innovation, and all things automotive. It combines a touch of the racing spirit with the art of watchmaking in a rare and distinctive timepiece.