Well known to watch aficionados are names such as the Nautilus and the Royal Oak, those famed early examples of the “luxury sports watch.”
But there were other such timepieces with integrated bracelets designed in the 1970s and 1980s, of which Chopard’s St. Moritz was one. Recently reimagined in the form of the brand’s Alpine Eagle, the original St. Mortiz was a celebration of the famed Swiss alpine ski resort, based around the principles of utilitarian design and “form follows function.”
This particular St. Moritz is an absolute stunner — full stop.
Housed in a 24.5mm 18K yellow gold case, this Reference 5156/1 features the signature St. Moritz bezel with its four leaf clover-esque silhouette and exposed screws. What makes this piece incredibly special is its factory diamond and rainbow gem setting adorned throughout the case, bracelet, dial and of course, the bezel!
A spectrum of colored gems encircle a pave dial with a matching gold handset. The case hood and flanks are also treated to a factory diamond setting. Arguably the best part of this timepiece is the integrated yellow bracelet with matching stone settings that culminate at a signed hidden deployant clasp. Not only does the bracelet taper beautifully, but each link features an elevated center row for each rainbow gem stone to take center stage.
With the rising trend in design-forward timepieces, some of which border high jewelry, this is the perfect time to explore a corner of horology that has long been forgotten.
Sure you can make the trek out to St. Moritz, but why not bring St. Mortiz everywhere you go with this timepiece!