Diamonds in colours for Chopard's “Elton John” chronograph

New stars have joined Sir Elton John's fight to combat AIDS. They are the new jewelled chronographs in Chopard's “Elton John” collection, each one sparkling with rare natural coloured diamonds. Proceeds from the sale of each timepiece go to support the “Elton John AIDS Foundation”.

Chopard crafted these chronographs at the request of Sir Elton John, who monitored the design closely. The initial collection of sporty and jewel-set models was previewed in June 2001 at “The White Tie and Tiara Ball” hosted by the artist at his manor house in England overlooking Windsor castle. Known as one of the great social events of the year, this ball is attended by the cream of the entertainment and political worlds. During the party, the first timepiece in the collection was auctioned by Kevin Spacey and went to Herbert Black for fifty thousand pounds.

Elton John's style and music are inimitable, and so is his watch collection. This limited edition ranges from a sports steel model produced in a series of 2,000 to jewellery-watch models in 13 variations limited from 50 to 200 depending on the version. Each jewellery model features a different colour combination. The brilliant-cut diamonds are either pink, yellow or white, associated with a stunning mix of black and cognac-coloured diamonds. In some models, the diamonds invade the entire surface of the bezel and attachments, even spreading as far as the dial counters. These vibrant creations are a permanent form of seduction, sending positive messages far and wide: such was indeed Chopard's intention.

The chronograph's functions remind us that these marvellous creations are just as impressive in action as they are in appearance : the various counters display the time measurements, completed by a tachometric scale for measuring speeds. The steel model is fitted with a natural rubber strap featuring a Dunlop tyre tread trade design; while the jewellery watches are worn on a crocodile leather strap in a colour matching the diamonds. Each watch comes with a certificate of authenticity and carries Sir Elton John's signature as well as its individual number engraved on its case-back. An exceptional timekeeper for an equally exceptional cause.

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Source: Chopard press release
June 2002