The relationship between Luis Figo and Jacob Arabo dates back nearly twenty years. They first met when the 2000 Ballon d’Or winner and 2001 FIFA World Player of the year was on a pre-season tour of the United States. Another famous Jacob & Co. customer, David Beckham, introduced the two. The relationship blossomed as Figo became a loyal customer. “I have the five time zones, some tourbillons, the Epic models and I bought a Ghost model to celebrate my Ballon d’Or in 2000,” he explains.
It has taken less than two months after Luis Figo and Jacob Arabo met at this year’s SIHH to launch the three limited editions in the Epic X chronograph collection that helped to design. The fact that the collection already existed made the personalisation a relatively simple affair, with the former Portuguese international adding his personal touches to the existing design. “We were able to create special elements for the special edition, like the special number 10 and the colours for the case and the straps, which have a personal significance for me,” he says.
In addition to the contrasting red number 10, which is found on the inner rotating bezel operated by a separate crown at 10 o’clock, the limited editions also have Luis Figo’s signature engraved on the smoked sapphire crystal case back. All three models have a black ceramic bezel and pushers but differ in the metal and colours used for the model’s signature “X” design, which includes the lugs and the elements on the sapphire crystal dial: 50 watches are available with a touch of rose gold, 30 in all-black DLC titanium and 30 in natural titanium.
The imposing case measures 47mm in diameter and is fitted with the exclusive Jacob & Co. JCAA05 skeletonised self-winding chronograph movement, which offers 48 hours of power reserve. Thanks to its robust case, the Epic X Chronograph Luis Figo limited editions are water resistant to 200 metres.
“As one of the most celebrated names in football, Luis Figo demonstrates the highest level of mastery in his sport,” says Jacob Arabo. “It’s been a pleasure working with him to create a timepiece that speaks to sophistication, style and technical skill that is synonymous with his name.”
