Since 2009, a partnership between Chopard and Yamada Heiando has combined haute horlogerie and the art of Japanese lacquer, derived from the sap of the urushi tree.
The dials of the very first L.U.C XP Urushi Collection were graced by the phoenix, kylin, tiger, genbu and blue-horn dragon. The ongoing collaboration in 2025 takes on another mythical creature for the Thailand-exclusive L.U.C XPS Urushi Naga.
A national symbol since 2022, the serpent-like naga appears in Thai arts and culture and is honoured in traditions such as Bung Fai Phya Nak (Naga Fireballs) and Lai Ruea Fai (Procession of Illuminated Boats) along the Mekong River held at the end of the Buddhist Lent in October.
“In Thai culture, the naga is revered as a divine and protective force. Therefore, it is important for us to convey its various attributes by commissioning a local artist for the imagery,” said Tanaporn Jiramaneekul, general manager of S.T. Diamond — the Chopard retailer in Thailand.
The Swiss watchmaker engaged Chiang Rai-based Warunyoo Somboon, whose signature style is inspired by traditional Thai paintings. The rising young artist portrays the naga emerging from the Mekong River, surrounded by traditional motifs symbolising protection, prosperity and spiritual guardianship.
“Warunyoo translated our vision of the L.U.C XPS Urushi Naga timepiece in great details. His work has been reproduced as a miniature on the dial, with the mythical creature exquisitely captured in urushi lacquer,” said Tanaporn.
The Tokyo-based Yamada Heiando has been crafting lacquerware since 1919, and the exceptional quality earned the Royal Warrant from the Japanese emperor.
Today, its master artisans include Minori Koizumi, who took over 20 hours to complete each dial of the L.U.C XPS Urushi Naga, with the mixture of Japanese lacquer and natural pigments, enriched by gold dust, and his craftsmanship making it a work of art.
The 39.5mm case shines in ethical 18-carat rose gold, with its slim profile accommodating an ultra-thin automatic movement developed in-house at the Chopard Manufacture in Fleurier.
Limited to 10 pieces, the L.U.C XPS Urushi Naga is available exclusively at the Chopard boutique, on Siam Paragon’s M Floor.