Launched in 2019, the Chopard Alpine Eagle 33 has fast established itself as one of the brand’s emblems, thanks to its instantly recognisable silhouette. So, it is no wonder the Swiss Manufacture has since enriched the collection with complications, such as a tourbillon and a patented flyback chronograph, as well as a range of case dimensions. Previously available in 36mm, 41mm, and 44mm sizes, the Alpine Eagle has a new 33mm version aimed squarely at dainty wrists.
Ladies enamoured of this luxury sports ticker will be spoilt for choice with six references in three material options – Chopard’s proprietary Lucent Steel A223 that is highly luminous, anti-allergenic, twice as hard as steel, and produced using 70% recycled material; 18K ethical rose gold; and bi-metal. Top of the line is the red carpet-ready rose gold variant with diamonds set into its bezel, with or without diamonds on its dial and central bracelet links. Meanwhile, the steel and bi-metal versions are also available with or without a diamond-set bezel.
Despite the reduction in dimensions, the Chopard Alpine Eagle 33 retained the same design elements that made the collection such a success. Angular yet fluid, its distinctive form is bolstered by its broad bezel with eight visible and functional screws. At the same time, its eagle feather central seconds hand sweeps across its dial adorned with Roman numerals and a sunburst motif evoking an eagle’s eye. More references to the majestic bird can be found on the raised central link of the bracelet that subtly recalls its mountain habitat.
The dial colours of the Chopard Alpine Eagle 33 are likewise inspired by nature. The Aletsch Blue dials of the Lucent Steel A223 versions mimic the bluish shimmer of the largest glacier in the Swiss Alps, while the bi-metal variants are fitted with Bernina Grey dials that evoke the rocks of the mountain chain. On the other hand, the 18K ethical rose gold iteration with diamond-set bezel flaunts a Vals Grey dial that recalls the silvery reflections of quartzite stone, which has been used to build the walls and roofs of traditional houses in the region of the village of Vals. Finally, the 18K ethical rose gold timepiece with diamonds set into the dial, bezel, and bracelet warms with a Pink Dawn dial emulating the sun’s early light as it rises over the mountains.
Not merely a pretty face, the Chopard Alpine Eagle 33 is just as brilliant under the dial. Water-resistant to 50m and equipped with the in-house self-winding Chopard 09.01-C movement, it has a 42-hour power reserve and a sophisticated stop-seconds function for accurate time-setting. Most notably, its 8-ligne movement is one of the smallest to be chronometer-certified by COSC.
The Chopard Alpine Eagle 33 is a charming addition to the family in the most wearable size for ladies. However, we wish there were also an iced-out version like the Alpine Eagle Frozen. That said, given the amount of attention Chopard has lavished on the three-year-old collection, we are fairly sure that is already on the cards.