Chopard Classic Round Quartz Custom Dial with Saudi National Emblem (King Faisal)
Dress Watch · Chopard (Independent, luxury tier)
Period: Quartz Revolution Era (1970s-1980s) / Neo-Vintage
Type
Dress Watch
Brand
Chopard (Independent, luxury tier)
Movement
High-grade Swiss quartz movement, likely ETA-based, jeweled quartz caliber
Dimensions
Case diameter: 33-35 mm, Case thickness: 6-7 mm, Lug-to-lug: 38-40 mm, Lug width: 18 mm
Description
An exceptionally rare and collectible Chopard dress watch featuring a striking deep black dial adorned with the Saudi national emblem and the name Faisal in Arabic script. Known for commissioning special-edition timepieces for royalty, government officials, and diplomatic gifts, Chopard produced these refined ultra-thin dress watches during the late 20th century. With its minimalist gold case, elongated linear indices, and potent political-historical provenance, this timepiece bridges high Swiss horology with Middle Eastern diplomatic history.
Key Features
Ultra-thin profile, glossy black dial, bespoke Saudi national emblem (Palm and Swords), Arabic signature, applied gold stick markers, classic minimalist dress watch aesthetic
Dial Description
Deep black gloss lacquer dial featuring applied stick indices, slender baton hands, the signature Chopard cursive logo, Arabic script reading Faisal, and the Saudi Arabia national emblem (palm tree above two crossed swords) at the 6 o'clock position
Case Material
Yellow gold-plated or solid 18k yellow gas case with polished finish
Crystal Type
Flat mineral glass or synthetic sapphire crystal
Bezel Details
Fixed smooth rounded yellow gold bezel integrated seamlessly into the slim case design
Crown & Pushers
Small unsigned or signed push-pull cabochon-free fluted yellow gold crown at the 3 o'clock position
Bracelet or Strap
Black genuine leather strap with an alligator or lizard grain texture and a standard gold-plated pin buckle
Caseback Details
Solid snap-on or screw-down stainless steel or yellow gold case back, potentially featuring maker's hallmarks and reference numbers
Movement Type
High-grade Swiss quartz movement, likely ETA-based, jeweled quartz caliber
Water Resistance
30 meters (3 ATM) / Splash-resistant only; not suitable for swimming or showering
Origin & Provenance
Swiss Made, manufactured in Geneva, Switzerland, featuring a Swiss quartz movement
Age Estimate
Circa 1980s-1990s
Cultural Significance
Represents a fascinating intersection of elite Swiss watchmaking and Middle Eastern statecraft, highly sought after by collectors specializing in bespoke, royal-provenance, and Middle Eastern dial variations.
Condition Notes
Case shows minimal wear with intact high-polish finish. Dial appears pristine with crisp printing and clean applied indices. Crystal is clear. Leather strap shows standard gentle use. Overall condition is Excellent for its age.
Value Estimate
Estimated secondary market value ranges between $3,000 to $7,000 USD, heavily dependent on documentation, original box, exact precious metal verification, and provenance backing.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid water exposure due to vintage dress watch seals. Replace the silver-oxide battery every 2-3 years to prevent leakage. Store in a dry, temperature-controlled environment.
Similar Watches
Patek Philippe Calatrava with custom dial, Piaget Altiplano, Vacheron Constantin Traditionnelle
Interesting Facts
High-end Swiss watchmakers like Chopard, Rolex, and Patek Philippe frequently produced bespoke dial variations featuring national emblems or the signatures of heads of state (such as King Faisal of Saudi Arabia or Sultan Qaboos of Oman) intended exclusively as official diplomatic gifts.