Supremely refined, understated and impeccably turned out, Dior’s Chiffre Rouge watch collection – just like their tailored suits, is at the sharp edge of cool. In the decade since it was first presented, the Dior Chiffre Rouge has been nurtured and developed. The portfolio thus far has included sports timers, gold editions and a highly acclaimed complex multiple time-zone model, the T01. The collection has however maintained the essence of the minimalist styling of the original models and it is still the epitome of elegance.
The Dior Chiffre Rouge C03 – A Clean-cut Profile
The pure styling which is synonymous with the Chiffre Rouge collection is credited to Hedi Slimane, who in 2004 was the creative director of Dior Homme. He was also responsible for the introduction of the slim silhouette – the bane of slightly portly men all around the world – to the Dior men’s clothing collections, so it is no wonder that the Chiffre Rouge models have a clean-cut profile. Under his direction, the first piece, a chronograph model not only featured the neat styling and slightly atypical case profile which remain to this day, but also quality mechanical movements provided by Zenith, Dior’s LVMH sister-company.
The Dior Chiffre Rouge C03 – The Number Red
Mr Dior loved the colour red, and it has remained a signature feature of every “Chiffre” or “number” model in the form of a date window with a vivid splash of colour, except that is for an “all-gold” yellow gold edition released in 2008, the only anomaly in an otherwise flawless portfolio. The “Designer Watch” genre has come a long way in recent times evolving from mere fashion accessories to bone fide mechanical watch collections which can take their place on the global watch stage with confidence, and the Chiffre Rouge is a splendid example of the successful merging of Horlogerie and Couture.
The Dior Chiffre Rouge C03 – Splendid Aesthetics
The new limited edition Chiffre Rouge C03 brings to the collection a grey metallized mother-of-pearl dial paired with gold-plated appliques and hands. The date window which features the signature red numerals is slipped in between one and two o’clock. A minimalist small seconds at 9 o’clock and an unembellished moon phase indication nestle in close to the centre, allowing an abundance of empty dial space to emphasise the classy starkness of the grey hue. The 38mm steel case features brushed finishing and the diamond-cut crown with its stunning red band completes the aesthetics of this splendid new Chiffre Rouge model.
Inside, the Swiss automatic Zenith Calibre Elite 691 with 27 jewels beats at 28,800 vph and retains a power reserve of 50 hours. A blackened caseback offers a shadowy view through to the mechanics.
The new Dior Chiffre Rouge C03 model comes presented on a black perforated calfskin strap with steel deployant and will be limited to 100 pieces. Price : 7000 euros