Chopard embodies ‘joie de vivre’. Its playful yet bold jewellery designs and sophisticated timepieces have a completely unique style. Here, we explore the story behind the celebrated family brand.

Passed from one generation to the next since the Maison was founded, Chopard’s identity has been built over time, with the contribution of every member of the family who has overseen it. Today, this unique family spirit differentiates Chopard in the world of high jewellery and fine watchmaking. It is evident in every step the Maison takes, along with its hallmarks of emotion and generosity. 

The Story Begins 

Chopard was born in 1860 with Louis-Ulysse Chopard, the founder of the luxury brand. He was the son of a farmer from Sonvilier, and at the age of 24, he became a notable artisan watchmaker. He created works of art with innovative designs, building precise and reliable chronometers and pocket watches. His work was so admired that he exported to illustrious places, such as the court of Tsar Nicholas II of Russia. 

In 1915, his son Paul-Louis took over and 22 years later relocated the company to the international watchmaking centre, Geneva. However, the post-war period proved challenging for the brand as there was no willing next-generation member to take on the family business. Chopard was subsequently acquired by Karl Scheufele, a goldsmith and watchmaker, who helped it flourish into the covetable brand it is today.

Family Spirit

Family is the very heart of Chopard, representing its foundation, history and contemporary embodiment: it is the hero and herald of the Maison – yesterday, today and tomorrow.

Since the 1980s, Karl and Karin’s children, Caroline and Karl-Friedrich, have been pillars of the brand. Caroline and Karl-Friedrich are Chopard’s current Co-Presidents. They each show their independence – Caroline Scheufele takes on the ladies collection, developing the high-end jewellery department alongside her brother Karl-Friedrich, who manages the men’s collections and developed sports watches in the 1980s.

Craftsmanship and Independence

Everything sold by Chopard is produced solely in its own workshops, which see more than 50 artisan skills, including some of the rarest and the most complex. They enable an unrestricted and more innovative creative expression, combined with a constant quest for excellence, thereby guaranteeing the highest quality standards. 

From the dancing diamonds that have become iconic, to the classic watches that pay homage to life in the fast lane, every Chopard creation tells its own story. They combine elegance with a hint of playfulness to create a truly unique spirit. Chopard understands that diamonds can do great things, and the emotions that each piece invokes is unforgettable.

Thank you for taking the time to read about the legacy of Chopard. Follow our latest news on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and Pinterest, or if you have any questions, please pop us an email at [email protected].