The planets do not always align by mere chance. In the universe — as in the watchmaking galaxy — invisible bonds exist. Driving forces that bring people together, convictions that unite them.
On October 27, the occasion will finally arise to see these connections revealed in full daylight — a rare and eagerly awaited phenomenon. But here, there will be no telescopes or light-years separating the participants from the event. Quite the opposite: warmth, closeness, and a unique opportunity to be immersed at the very heart of the action.
Watchmaking Friendships
On stage, two main protagonists. On one side, the Chopard manufacture, embodied by Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, its Co-President and the driving force behind its watchmaking destiny. Three generations have watched over this jewel nestled on the slopes of Fleurier. Over the decades, they have transformed it into a fully integrated, 100% family-owned and independent manufacture — one of the most respected and creative names in Swiss Haute Horlogerie.
On the other side, GMT Publishing, founded by Brice Lechevalier in 2000. From its stronghold in Geneva, the publishing house has established itself as the leading source of watchmaking emotion for readers spread across the four corners of the globe. The very first issue of its flagship title, GMT Magazine, was released exactly 25 years ago. And its first interviewee? Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, naturally.
Between these two entrepreneurs, a bond of trust and respect has been woven — built over a quarter-century of rich exchanges. That they should meet once again in 2025 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of GMT Publishing was self-evident. But not a culmination. Quite the opposite — a new beginning.
Engines On, Action!
Today, the watchmaking passions of these two men have evolved. For one, toward sailing; for the other, toward wine and art — among many other pursuits. Yet their driving force remains the same: sharing the emotion of fine watchmaking with as many people as possible. A force that, once again, brings them together. Karl-Friedrich Scheufele is an avid car collector and racer; Brice Lechevalier is the mastermind behind the GMT Watch Safari, an event designed to take a select group of collectors on a journey through the world of watchmaking — visiting manufactures and personally meeting their CEOs. Including, of course… Chopard and Karl-Friedrich Scheufele.
The latest intersection of their paths could only be watchmaking. The concept behind it didn’t need to be sought far: Chopard is the main sponsor of the legendary Mille Miglia. It is, much like the bond between GMT Publishing and Chopard, a story of friendship and loyalty. The Maison has supported the race since 1988 — marking 37 consecutive years of unwavering partnership. A unique case in the world of watchmaking, and quite possibly in the entire realm of sports sponsorship.
The Shortest Mille Miglia Series Ever Produced
At the 2025 GMT Watch Safari, a special edition Chopard Mille Miglia GTS Power Control was unveiled. Only 25 pieces will be made, making it the shortest and most exclusive Mille Miglia limited edition ever created by Chopard — a collector within a collector series.
Each watch will be engraved with the distinction “GMT 25th Anniversary,” complemented by the inscription “BMC,” for Bonmont Motors Club, a car circle of which Mr. Scheufele is himself a member. Participants of the Watch Safari will receive an even more personal touch: 8 of these 25 pieces will be reserved for them in priority and will also bear the engraving “Watch Safari” on the case back — a back and case made from Chopard’s eco-friendly Lucent Steel, 80% recycled.
On the dial, the finishing speaks for itself: a beige sandblasted texture, directly evoking the GMT Watch Safari — another first for a Mille Miglia. The watch, with a 60-hour power reserve displayed in a “Full/Empty” gauge, is powered by a COSC-certified movement. Racing nods continue on the perforated brown calf leather strap with black tire-style rubber lining, and on the screw-down crown engraved with a steering wheel.
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