A men’s Chopard St Moritz sports watch, with a 100hr power reserve automatic movement.
HOW DO WE DATE THIS WATCH?
We know this model number 8379 was launched in Basel in 1998, and have taken a photograph of the article. Without paperwork it is difficult to be certain when this was sold, but circa 2000 seems likely. We have asked Chopard to see if they can be of any further help.
CONDITION
The St Moritz range was Chopard’s answer to the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak, and was first launched in 1980. This later watch has a larger, fully stainless steel case (earlier ones were mainly bi metal, with a frillier bezel – see the picture of this watch next to a 1984 advert) and also features a very interesting movement. Arguably the best go-to movement maker is Frederick Piguet, and his movements grace watches from Blancpain, Audemars Piguet, Breguet, Vacheron Constantin, Gerald Genta, IWC, Ulysse Nardin, Piaget and Breitling among others. In 1988 The Frederick Piguet 11.50 movement was launched, and the only two brands that we can find that use this are Blancpain in their 2100 series and Chopard. This 29 jewel movement is adjusted to five positions, and features two spring barrels to provide a stunning 100hr power reserve when new. This is high end horology.
This example has been worn and the case and bracelet does show signs of this. Some people would have this polished, some prefer it original. So we have left it original and should you wish to have the watch polished then that option is available to you. The worst damage is to the case near 9, where the part of the case that sits proud near the lower bezel screw has been knocked. The dial is crisp and clean, and has applied beveled markers. The date function at 4.30 can be quick set via the signed, screw down crown. The bracelet is full length, but unlike a Royal Oak this can be worn with a leather strap if you prefer. The bracelet is signed on the double folding clasp, and has been ultrasonically cleaned.
The Chopard St Moritz is not an obvious choice, and most watch collectors will go their entire life without seeing one. But if you want high quality with little chance of seeing someone else wearing the same watch then it is a great option for Omega Seamaster money.
This watch will be supplied with a presentation box and our Certificate of Authenticity.
Please see the HD video for more detail.
SIZE
Width with crown 40.1 mm
Width without crown 37.3 mm
Between lugs 19 mm
Lug to lug length 44.9 mm
Case Thickness 9.9 mm
Bracelet maximum length 205 mm
All sizes are approximate.
Included with this watch is a 6 month guarantee and free delivery to UK addresses. If you live outside the UK we can still deliver to most countries via DHL Worldwide, which we subsidise. Please see our Worldwide Shipping information. Payment can be made by most credit or debit cards, bank transfer or PayPal.
