ChanelJ12 Superleggera

The Chanel J12 watch is Chanel's most iconic timepiece. Created by Jacques Helleu, it became an iconic timepiece for many more reasons than its initial J Class yachting inspiration. It became a unification of the masculine and feminine and defied gender norms when it came to watchmaking at the time.

Subsequently, the J12 grew, yet was robust and versatile and suitable for so-called called masculine activities, whilst still aesthetically striking. As it grew in popularity, Chanel horologists added more features typically reserved for male designs such as moonphases and chronographs.

The release also marked the successful merging of high fashion and serious horology. When fashion brands tried to tap into the art previously, it had been more about mode than mechanics. With brands like Vacheron having centuries worth of a headstart in the trade, it was hard for other fashion-led brands to keep up.

This saw the 20-year-old model win favour, the J12 was ground-breaking within the rules of ceramics and its sheer technical power. The model has been updated and adapted throughout the years and the newest model features the Calibre 12.1 and a new Chanel-exclusive Manufacture self-winding movement. This is a fashion house with some serious watchmaking chops.

This piece, the Superleggera Chronograph, meaning, ‘super light’ is crafted from Chanel's signature high-tech ceramic, which is scratch and bash resistant and given a textured finish. The 41mm case houses a silver dial that features plated hour and minute hands along with a white-tipped central seconds hand.

The bi-colour face has appliqué black Arabic numerals, which are interrupted only by the sub-dials at 3 and 9 o'clock housing the 30-minute and small seconds counter, while the notched steel bezel features a tachymeter.

Ultra reliable, with an impressive 42-hour power reserve, the self-winding manual chronograph is certified by Swiss Official Chronometer Control. The Chanel J12 Superleggera Chronograph is presented on a two piece, thermally neutral, ceramic bracelet ensuring ultimate comfort and fit. 

The Superleggera is an effortlessly cool and wearable piece.

This 2008 Chanel J12 Superleggera H1624 is presented for sale in excellent condition throughout its case, caseback and ceramic bracelet, alongside its box and papers.

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