The world of luxury watchmaking and automotive racing collide in the latest release from Chopard, the Mille Miglia Classic Chronograph Raticosa. As the official timekeeper of the iconic Italian endurance rally, Chopard has a long history of drawing inspiration from the race and its legendary roads. The Raticosa Pass, a celebrated stretch of the Mille Miglia route, has been immortalized in this new timepiece, offering a unique blend of vintage aesthetics and modern racing spirit.
A Vintage-Inspired Tribute
The Chopard Mille Miglia Classic Chronograph Raticosa stands out with its warmer, vintage-inspired dial. The matte eggshell finish, beige Super-LumiNova numerals, and black scales create a timeless look reminiscent of classic chronographs. The red-tipped chronograph seconds hand and the iconic Mille Miglia arrow add a pop of color, providing a subtle yet striking contrast. This dial design is a departure from the 2021 Raticosa edition, emphasizing a softer, more nostalgic aesthetic.
A Narrative Caseback
One of the most intriguing features of this watch is its engraved caseback. Instead of a display back, Chopard has opted for a solid titanium caseback depicting a historic racing scene at the Raticosa Pass. The illustration, surrounded by spectators, evokes the spirit of the Mille Miglia and its rich history. This narrative element adds a layer of depth and character to the timepiece, connecting it intimately to the road it celebrates. With a water resistance of 50 meters, the watch is a robust companion for everyday wear, while still maintaining its elegant and classic look.
A Proven Movement
Powering the Raticosa is a COSC-certified automatic chronograph movement based on the ETA A322-11. With a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour and a 54-hour power reserve, this movement is a reliable choice for a watch intended for spirited driving. While it may not be an in-house caliber, it is a robust and proven movement, ensuring accurate timekeeping and a smooth chronograph function.
Comfort and Character
The 40.5mm Lucent Steel case, with its balanced proportions and comfortable fit, is a testament to Chopard's attention to detail. The welded lugs and glass-box sapphire crystal add to the vintage character, while car-inspired references like the knurled pushers and steering-wheel motif crown provide a subtle connection to the world of automotive racing. The brown perforated leather strap completes the look, offering a comfortable and stylish finish.
A Timeless Addition
Priced at EUR 11,100 or USD 11,700, the Chopard Mille Miglia Classic Chronograph Raticosa is a timeless addition to any watch enthusiast's collection. It seamlessly blends the worlds of vintage chronographs and modern racing, offering a unique and character-filled timepiece. With its narrative caseback and vintage-inspired dial, this watch tells a story, inviting wearers to embark on their own journey along the legendary Raticosa Pass.
Final Thoughts
Chopard's latest release is a testament to their expertise in combining luxury watchmaking with automotive passion. The Raticosa Pass, with its rich history and legendary status, serves as the perfect inspiration for this chronograph. By focusing on the road's narrative and its vintage aesthetics, Chopard has created a timepiece that stands out, offering a unique and engaging experience for watch enthusiasts and automotive enthusiasts alike.
