The Chopard Zagato Lab One Concept combines automotive design and advanced engineering to push the boundaries of watchmaking lightness. The result of a collaboration with Italian coachbuilder Zagato, this timepiece reimagines the architecture of the movement through innovative materials and bold aesthetics, designed to reduce mass to the bare minimum without sacrificing the manufacturer's standards of precision.
A racing aesthetic in ceramic-coated titanium
The 42 mm case is crafted from ceramic-coated titanium, a complex technical process that hardens the metal's surface to optimize its scratch resistance. According to the manufacturer's specifications, this treatment extends to the main plate, bridges, and case middle. The dial, a true extension of the engine, features the movement plate engraved with Zagato's iconic "Z" motif. The whole design is based on a tubular architecture directly inspired by race car chassis.
This structure is not only aesthetic: it supports movement by effectively distributing mechanical stress in the event of an impact. The open tubular lugs, which attach the strap, incorporate a pivoting mechanism limited to 45° to prioritize rigidity and ergonomics, at the cost of increased design complexity.
A high-precision motor
At the heart of this machine lies the L.U.C 04.04-L caliber, a direct evolution of the Engine One Tourbillon. This chronometer-certified movement beats at a frequency of 4 Hz and offers a power reserve of 60 hours. It features a 60-second tourbillon and advanced protection devices, such as elastomer silent blocks and four lever arms housed in the case middle, ensuring optimal stability.
The quest for lightness dictated every technical choice: in addition to the titanium treatment, the tourbillon cage is made of aluminum. These solutions are reminiscent of strategies used in motor racing to optimize the weight/power ratio, giving the piece an impressive technicality.
Exclusivity and ultimate lightness
The result on the scales speaks for itself: the watch weighs in at a featherweight 36.5 grams (43.2 grams with the strap). This feat is accompanied by absolute rarity, with production limited to just 19 pieces. As for the price, information varies between €149,500 and CHF 130,000 depending on the source, reflecting the still-evolving communication surrounding this exceptional launch.
The art of mechanical fusion
The Lab One Concept is part of the "Lab" initiative launched by Chopard with the Mille Miglia Lab One. This exercise in style demonstrates cutting-edge technical expertise and reinforces the natural link between watchmaking and automobiles. While the challenge of balancing robustness, lightness, and automotive inspiration has been met, this project remains a niche product, both technical and symbolic, intended for the most discerning collectors.