Introduced: 1988
Purpose / Inspiration: The Mille Miglia collection was born from Chopard’s official partnership with the Mille Miglia—a legendary Italian endurance race for classic cars. The watches are meant to evoke the dashboard instruments of vintage racers, blending retro charm with rugged functionality. It’s the gentleman driver’s daily chronograph.
Designer: Created under Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, a vintage car enthusiast and Mille Miglia participant himself; the watch line became a bridge between Chopard’s sporting and luxury sides
Case size: Typically 39mm to 44mm depending on the model (Classic, GTS, Chrono, Racing)
Case options: Stainless steel, titanium, two-tone, and 18k gold; limited editions often feature PVD coatings or racing livery details
Powered by:
- ETA 2894-2, Valjoux 7750 base chronographs
- COSC-certified automatic movements across the line
- In-house L.U.C calibers used in high-end Mille Miglia GTS Power Control and Chrono models
Bezel: Fixed bezel with tachymeter scale; some models feature knurled edges for added grip
Dial options: Black, silver, grey, or red with large Arabic numerals, lume-filled hands, and strong vintage-instrument styling; rally-themed date windows with Mille Miglia red arrow logo
Water resistance: 50m to 100m depending on model
Bracelet: Leather rally strap (often rubber-lined), rubber strap molded like 1960s Dunlop tire tread, or steel bracelet
Still in production, with new limited editions released every year to coincide with the Mille Miglia race
Why it matters: This is the heart of Chopard’s automotive identity—equal parts sport and sophistication. It’s a functional chronograph with vintage soul, loved by car collectors and casual fans alike.
Racing Heritage, Certified: COSC movements, vintage dials, rally pedigree
Dashboard to Wrist: Dials inspired by classic speedometers and gauges
Rubber Tread, Racing Thread: Straps styled after real tires and driving gloves
Built by a Car Guy, for Car Guys: Karl-Friedrich doesn’t just build them—he drives the race