The Mille Miglia Classic Chronograph Raticosa: A Watch with a Story
Chopard has once again drawn inspiration from the iconic Mille Miglia race, this time focusing on the Raticosa Pass, a legendary road that has challenged racers for decades. The 2026 edition of this watch is a captivating tribute, offering a unique blend of vintage aesthetics and modern craftsmanship.
A Journey Through Time and Place
What makes this timepiece truly special is its ability to transport wearers to a specific moment in racing history. The Raticosa Pass, with its steep inclines and hairpin turns, is a formidable challenge for drivers, and the watch captures this essence. The caseback engraving, a rare feature in modern watches, showcases a vintage racing car ascending the pass, surrounded by spectators. It's a subtle yet powerful narrative touch that adds a layer of storytelling to the timepiece.
Personally, I appreciate how Chopard has evolved the design from the 2021 version. The new caseback engraving provides a more intimate connection to the race's history, almost like a secret shared between the watch and its owner. It's a detail that many enthusiasts will cherish.
Vintage Charm Meets Modern Comfort
The watch's design is a delightful mix of vintage and contemporary elements. The 40.5mm Lucent Steel case, with its brushed and polished finishes, exudes a classic charm. The glass-box sapphire crystal and welded lugs further enhance the vintage appeal. But it's not just about looks; the watch is also incredibly comfortable on the wrist, thanks to its well-proportioned design and the downsizing introduced in 2023.
One thing that immediately stands out is the matte eggshell dial, which takes its cues from vintage chronographs. The beige Super-LumiNova Arabic numerals and black-printed scales create a beautiful contrast, while the red-tipped chronograph seconds hand adds a subtle pop of color. This design is a refreshing departure from the typical modern racing watch aesthetic, offering a more understated and sophisticated look.
Performance and Precision
Under the hood, the watch is powered by a COSC-certified automatic chronograph movement based on the ETA A322-11. While not an in-house caliber, it is a reliable and robust choice, offering a 54-hour power reserve and a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour. This movement is more than capable of keeping up with the demands of motorsport enthusiasts.
The watch's functionality is further enhanced by its tri-compax layout, featuring a small seconds display, 30-minute and 12-hour counters, and a date aperture. These features are not just practical; they contribute to the watch's overall character, making it a versatile timepiece suitable for both racing enthusiasts and those who appreciate classic design.
A Watch for the Ages
With a price tag of EUR 11,100 or USD 11,700, the Mille Miglia Classic Chronograph Raticosa is an investment in both style and history. It's a watch that will undoubtedly appeal to collectors and enthusiasts alike, offering a unique connection to the Mille Miglia race and its rich heritage. The use of Lucent Steel, a proprietary Chopard material, adds a touch of exclusivity, ensuring that this timepiece stands out in any collection.
In my opinion, this watch is a testament to Chopard's ability to blend storytelling, design, and functionality seamlessly. It's not just a timepiece; it's a wearable piece of motorsport history, capturing the essence of a legendary road and the spirit of endurance racing. This is the kind of watch that will spark conversations and inspire admiration, making it a worthy addition to any enthusiast's collection.
