Mille Miglia Classic Patina

Chopard unveils a new interpretation of its Mille Miglia Classic Chronograph, characterised by a case deliberately weathered to evoke the patina of historic racing cars. For the first time, the Maison combines Lucent Steel™ – known for its hardness and superior scratch resistance – treated with DLC (diamond like carbon coating) that has undergone a tribofinishing process subtly abrading the surface using vibrating ceramic media. This intentionally controlled finishing gives the timepiece a unique character: delicately scuffed edges designed to evoke the noble patina of a vintage automobile, which will continue to evolve over time according to the lifestyle and wearing habits of each future owner.

This approach celebrates the marks of time rather than concealing them. Indeed, some owners of classic cars choose not to repair certain signs of wear acquired in racing: every scratch tells the story of a machine tested by the harsh conditions of competition. In the same spirit, this timepiece belongs to the world of classic motorsport, a realm with which Chopard has been associated for nearly four decades. A tribute to its longstanding partnership with the Mille Miglia, this new chronograph is issued in an exclusive 100 piece limited edition, honouring both heritage and mechanical passion.

The watch stands out with a copper coloured circular satin finished dial framed by the collection’s emblematic glass box sapphire crystal. Black and copper-coloured chronograph counters and a matching tachymeter scale introduce an immediately legible contrast. Subtle touches of red on the chronograph seconds hand and the official Mille Miglia logo echo the identity of competitive racing. Grade X1 Super LumiNova® coats the baton type black hands and painted hour markers, ensuring contrasts and clarity in all lighting conditions. Ergonomic pushers, robust crown and welded lugs improve usability, while enhancing craftsmanship and the chronograph’s motorsport inspired aesthetics. Completing the design is a black perforated calfskin strap, reminiscent of classic driving gloves. It is fastened with a buckle crafted from DLC treated Lucent Steel™ featuring the same patina as the case.

Behind a smoked sapphire exhibition caseback beats a mechanical self winding chronograph movement designed for precision and reliability. Operating at 4 Hz (28,800 vph), it delivers a 54 hour power reserve and incorporates a stop-seconds mechanism for exact time setting. Its chronometer certification (COSC) attests to its precision, an essential virtue for a timepiece inspired by a legendary endurance race.