Chopard and Bamford Watch Department are back at it again, delivering a stunning timepiece that seamlessly blends precision watchmaking with the spirit of motorsport. Introducing the Mille Miglia GTS Power Control Bamford Edition ‘Desert Racer’ — a bead-blasted titanium masterpiece available in an ultra-limited run of just 50 pieces, priced at £9,380. This exclusive interpretation of Chopard’s iconic Mille Miglia GTS Power Control timepiece brings modern design elements and technical prowess together in perfect harmony.
This latest collaboration between Chopard’s Co-President Karl-Friedrich Scheufele and George Bamford, founder of Bamford Watch Department, is a testament to the shared passion for craftsmanship and a relentless pursuit of quality. The Desert Racer edition is characterized by its vibrant orange, grey, and black colour scheme, oversized numerals, and distinctive woven-effect rubber strap—details that vividly reflect Chopard’s connection to motorsport and Bamford’s creative vision. Tested by George Bamford himself during an off-road rally in the Mexican desert, this watch has proven its reliability and precision even in the most demanding conditions.
The Desert Racer features a robust 43mm bead-blasted titanium case—an incredibly light yet sturdy material that gives the watch a sporty and elegant feel. The bezel, topped with a black aluminium graduated inlay, adds a touch of sophistication, while short, streamlined lugs ensure a comfortable fit on the wrist. The woven-effect rubber strap, secured by a folding clasp in DLC bead-blasted steel, further enhances the watch’s refined aesthetic, offering both resilience and a touch of luxury.
Turn the watch over, and the screw-down case back reveals a transparent tinted crystal, surrounded by an orange seal. This unique feature showcases the Chopard 01.08-C movement, complete with intricate finishes and an open-worked oscillating weight. Developed, produced, and assembled entirely in Chopard’s workshops, this mechanical self-winding movement is COSC-certified, ensuring top-notch precision and boasting an impressive 60-hour power reserve.
The dial of the Desert Racer plays with contrasts to create a distinctive style. Its frosted black backdrop is lit up with flame orange accents—a signature Bamford touch. The oversized 6 and 12 numerals, finished with black SuperLuminova®, ensure excellent legibility, a crucial aspect for motorsport-inspired timepieces. Facetted dagger-shaped hands and luminescent hour markers add to the watch’s functionality, while the power reserve indicator, inspired by vintage car fuel gauges, pays homage to the Mille Miglia’s racing heritage.
With only 50 pieces available, the Mille Miglia GTS Power Control Bamford Edition ‘Desert Racer’ is as exclusive as it is captivating. It represents the perfect blend of technical excellence, rugged durability, and motorsport-inspired style, making it an ideal addition to any discerning collector’s lineup. Don’t miss your chance to own a watch that embodies both the thrill of the race and the elegance of Chopard’s craftsmanship.
