While watches like the Alpine Eagle 41 and L'Heure du Diamant are perhaps what people will first think of when they hear the name Chopard—gloriously delicate dress watches that look right at home whilst on the wrist of any gala dinner atendee—for us car-loving, watch-toting folk, there is one watch from Chopard’s line-up that speaks to us above all others. That watch is, of course, the Mille Miglia.
As the main partner and official timekeeper of the event since 1988, Chopard have released dozens of special edition examples of their Mille Miglia watch, and now they have partnered with Bamford Watch Department to deliver a very exclusive edition of its Mille Miglia GTS Power Control watch. As a way of testing the watch to its limits, George Bamford decided the best way to showcase his latest collaboration was to compete in the Norra 1,000, a gruelling sand adventure which he completed in a Meyers Manx. George describes the idea behind this launch in more detail: “I was so pleased to say that I tried and tested it in the desert, on a desert race and the watch is built to survive on great expeditions and adventures. With this flame orange and tarmac black dial, the combination works in perfect harmony. I loved working on the Mille Miglia watch and when we were coming to create this one, I really wanted to have an alternative to the original Mille Miglia and that’s why we felt the Desert Racer would be the off-road cousin of the Mille Miglia.”
As George mentions, the watch is loaded with touches of orange, grey and black. With its oversized numerals and woven-effect rubber strap, the new watch reflects the passion that unites Chopard with world of motorsport. Limited to just 50 examples, these timepieces are crafted in bead-blasted titanium, known for its reliability and sturdiness.
Just as a driver keeps an eye on fuel levels during the 1,600 km of the Mille Miglia endurance race, wearers of the Mille Miglia GTS Power Control Bamford Edition ‘Desert Racer’ will be able to check the power reserve of their timepiece thanks to the built-in indicator. This display is inspired by the fuel gauges of the cars competing in the races, while the Chopard 01.08-C movement, endowed with chronometer-certified accuracy, ensures not a moment is lost while out on the open road.
We are delighted to welcome this this stunning watch to the CD Shop, but it is limited to just 50 pieces, and isn’t likely to stick around, so grab yours while you can!
Photos by Hagop Kalaidjian
