Born from a collaboration between the Milanese coachbuilder Zagato and the Swiss watchmaker Chopard, the Lab One Concept watch masterfully brings automotive aesthetics and precision engineering to the wrist. Unveiled at Rétromobile 2026, this high-end timepiece features a tubular architecture inspired by the open chassis of 1950s race cars, combining spectacular mechanics, record-breaking lightness, and exceptional watchmaking expertise.
Design that enhances mechanical performance
Moving away from the traditional closed case, the Lab One Concept adopts a tubular structure reminiscent of racing chassis to offer a full view of its components. This approach reflects Zagato’s long-standing philosophy: reducing weight and integrating engineering into the visual narrative. The L.U.C 04.04-L manual-winding caliber is literally suspended within this architecture, revealed beneath a one-minute tourbillon positioned at six o’clock to create a true showcase of cutting-edge mechanics.
A passion for materials and lightness
Ceramic-coated titanium plays a central role in the design of this timepiece. Through an electro-plasma oxidation process, the metal achieves a hardness comparable to that of ceramic while maintaining a minimal weight. The watch is said to weigh approximately 36.5 grams without the strap, which would potentially make it the lightest titanium watch ever produced by Chopard. While some publications cite a weight of 43.2 grams, attention remains undeniably focused on this deliberate pursuit of exceptional lightness.
Wrist-mounted racing technology
Equipped with the COSC-certified L.U.C 04.04-L movement, the Lab One offers approximately 60 hours of power reserve. Its design pays numerous tributes to the automotive world: a crown reminiscent of a differential gear and a power reserve indicator reminiscent of a fuel gauge. The timepiece also incorporates shock absorbers similar to engine mounts, designed to protect the movement from vibrations and thus celebrate a perfect fusion of watchmaking innovation and motorsport culture.
A unique position in the world of fine watchmaking
Limited to just 19 pieces, this edition pays tribute to Zagato’s founding date: April 19, 1919. This choice underscores the deeply rooted passion for automobiles shared by the two houses, whose historic collaborations have until now centered on the legendary Mille Miglia race. Positioned within the realm of conceptual and experimental haute horlogerie, the Lab One Concept pushes the boundaries of traditional design. Leading publications have praised its technological and aesthetic boldness. Although its official price remains confidential, its rarity and extreme complexity automatically place it at the pinnacle of the prestige watchmaking segment.
Ultimately, this creation exemplifies a perfect synergy: Zagato extends its innovative design philosophy beyond automotive bodywork, while Chopard infuses it with its standards of high precision. It demonstrates how the pursuit of structural integrity can give rise to profoundly sculptural objects. This collaboration serves as a powerful reminder that automotive aesthetics can drive major advancements in watchmaking, fusing performance, craftsmanship, and style into an object of the highest standards where every detail and every gram counts.