Founded in 1737, Favre Leuba is one of the few names in Swiss watchmaking that carries such a rich vintage sport-chic DNA. The brand is renowned for its robust designs and innovative approach, from iconic dive watches to distinctive cushion-shaped urban timepieces, such as the Chief. Revived in recent years with thoughtful updates, the Chief series bridges 1970s character with contemporary refinement, offering a confident alternative for those who want heritage style with a fresh attitude. This year, following the introduction of the limited edition Chief Tourbillon, Favre Leuba expands the Chief Date family with the new Chief Date Royal Purple. This vivid version embraces the expressive power of colour, specifically, a deep, electrifying purple dial that channels both vintage (royal) flair and modern individuality. Kind of a statement piece, it perfectly showcases Favre Leuba’s approach: time-honoured forms reinterpreted with standout contemporary details.
The Chief Date Royal Purple stays true to the Chief line’s signature silhouette. A versatile, cushion-shaped stainless steel case with recessed flanks measures a comfortable 40mm across. Its balanced 10.81mm thickness makes it elegant enough for daily wear. Finishing alternates between brushed surfaces and polished accents, catching the light. The integrated design of the lugs maintains a sleek and cohesive flow. A screw-down crown ensures reliable water resistance of 100m.
The dial commands attention. Bathed in a rich Royal Purple sunburst finish, it shifts and plays with the light in dynamic ways thanks to the signature high-relief hourglass pattern. Rhodium-plated hands glide smoothly above, treated with Super-LumiNova C1 X1 for excellent legibility day or night. The applied faceted indices are accented with luminescent markers closer to the dial´s periphery. The date window at 3 o’clock is neatly tucked, adding everyday practicality without disrupting the dial’s symmetry.
For movement, the Chief Date Royal Purple relies on the automatic FLD03 calibre, made in collaboration with La Joux-Perret. The movement beats at 28,800 vibrations/hour and provides a good 68-hour power reserve. A sapphire caseback reveals the fine finishing: a custom skeletonised rotor decorated with colimaçonnage and soleil brushing, Geneva stripes across the bridges, and thermally blued screws.
The new Chief Date comes standard with an integrated stainless steel bracelet featuring polished centre links and vertically brushed side links for contrast, a seamless match for the case’s lines and a secure fit thanks to a sturdy folding clasp. For a sportier look, Favre Leuba also offers a matching purple FKM rubber strap, boosting comfort for warm-weather wear or an active lifestyle. The Chief Date Royal Purple is priced CHF 2,375 on a steel bracelet or CHF 2,300 with a rubber strap.
For more details, visit Favre-Leuba.com.
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