Chopard co-president, Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, is a renowned fan of classic car racing, and an advocate of the shared passion for the elegance and performance of both fine automobiles and precious timepieces. As timekeeping partner for the prestigious Mille Miglia classic car race since 1988, Chopard creates an annual commemorative watch designed to time races, featuring a high-precision mechanism and sporty design – a tribute to the golden age of motor racing. This year, Chopard worked with George Bamford of Bamford Watch Department to customise a special edition of the Mille Miglia Classic Chronograph. BWD’s makeover delivers a contemporary sporty look, with its 42mm case in bead-blasted scratchproof Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) stainless steel. The 33 numbered watches in the edition have an elegant dark grey dial with ‘flame’ orange detailing, completed by a comfortable cordura-effect black rubber strap with orange stitching, lined in orange calf leather.

George Bamford is also passionate about the legendary race: ‘I have always loved the Mille Miglia watch for its wonderful connection with one of the most amazing car rallies in the world – the most memorable rally I have experienced in my life,’ he says. ‘When designing this watch with Chopard, I wanted to reminisce on the racing connection but also give it a different aspect. The colour combination of dark grey and one of our signature colours, flame orange, is almost a juxtaposition to the traditional red and white colours of the Mille Miglia.’ The orange accents, explains Bamford, ensure the dial is popping and eye-catching, making the time and speed very legible. ‘It has a beautiful chic feeling to it and I just love its connection with the automotive world. It is a great watch for any vintage or modern car enthusiast.’

£6,950, chopard.com; bamfordwatchdepartment.com