The L.U.C XP Esprit de Fleurier Peony is a direct descendant of the L.U.C XPS 35mm Esprit de Fleurier and the L.U.C XP 35mm Esprit de Fleurier Peony models presented in 2015 and 2016 respectively. It picks up the design codes of both models, adopting their light and flowing lines providing ideal scope for expressing artistic crafts.
Its 35 mm diameter case is perfect for the Fleurisanne engraving. Keenly aware of the threat of extinction hovering over this traditional engraving technique, Chopard provides in-house training for the nimble fingers capable of perpetuating it. Giving life to the exquisite motif gracing the L.U.C XP Esprit de Fleurier Peony requires a full month and a half of work devoted to engraving the dial and movement.
Entirely crafted in the workshops of the Manufacture, the double white gold dial is sculpted using a raised rather than a hollowed technique, in order to create a striking contrast with the background. By incising the surrounding material, the artisan forms a prominent surface that can then be engraved. The case is stippled dot by dot to create a finely grained appearance. It provides a frame for the polished peonies standout radiantly on the upper dial. Their pistils are set with diamonds. The dial reveals fascinating glimpses of the movement bridges, engraved using the same Fleurisanne engraving technique, and then gilded. On the dial, just as on the bridges and even the platinum micro-rotor, the volume-effect workmanship is truly extraordinary. The sophistication of the L.U.C XP Esprit de Fleurier Peony extends onto the bezel and case middle that are entirely set with diamonds.
The movement of the L.U.C XP Esprit de Fleurier Peony is equipped with the patented Twin® technology, meaning two stacked coaxial barrels providing a generous 65-hour power reserve. Housing such a sophisticated self-winding movement within an ultra-thin 7.70 mm case is a genuine technical feat.
