Chopard Tank Black Onyx Dial 18K Yellow Gold Jumbo Oversize Ref. 2012/2 from 1980s

Chopard Tank 18K Yellow Gold Onyx Dial Ref. 2012/2 – 1980s

A striking and increasingly rare expression of Chopard’s high watchmaking heritage, the Chopard Tank Ref. 2012/2 from the 1980s represents the Maison at its most refined and architectural. Produced during a period when Chopard was quietly crafting some of the most elegant shaped watches in Switzerland, this model stands today as a connoisseur’s piece—discreet, luxurious, and deeply rooted in Geneva watchmaking tradition.

Defined by its bold onyx dial, solid gold construction, and classical Tank proportions, this reference embodies understated power and timeless design.

Onyx Dial – Pure Minimalism & Depth

The mirror-finish black onyx dial is the defining feature of this watch. Devoid of numerals or superfluous text, it relies entirely on material quality and proportion for its impact. The result is a dial of pure graphic strength—deep black, reflective, and incredibly elegant.

Onyx dials are notoriously difficult to produce and prone to cracking over time, making surviving examples increasingly rare. The dial on this piece shows light, honest signs of age consistent with its era, adding character without detracting from its striking visual presence.

Paired with polished gold hands, the contrast is dramatic yet perfectly balanced—classic black-and-gold at its finest.

Tank Case – 18K Yellow Gold Authority

The classic Tank case is crafted in solid 18K yellow gold, with sharp lines, strong brancards, and beautifully preserved proportions. Measuring approximately 25 x 33 mm, it sits firmly in the “man’s-size” category for vintage Tanks, offering a confident wrist presence without excess.

The case contains roughly 16 grams of solid gold, underscoring the tangible value and seriousness of the piece. Its geometry is crisp and architectural, reflecting the design language that made the Tank one of the most enduring shapes in watchmaking history.

Completing the case is a matching onyx cabochon crown, an elegant and highly desirable detail that echoes the dial material and reinforces the watch’s cohesive design.

L.U.C. Heritage – Geneva Craftsmanship

This reference belongs to Chopard’s L.U.C. lineage, named after the brand’s founder Louis-Ulysse Chopard. The L.U.C. designation represents Chopard’s highest tier of watchmaking—fully developed, finished, and assembled in Geneva.

During the 1980s, L.U.C.-associated pieces like this Tank were produced in small numbers and aimed at a discreet, knowledgeable clientele. Today, they stand as important markers of Chopard’s serious horological identity beyond jewelry-focused creations.

Mechanical Movement – Classic & Reliable

Powering the watch is a hand-wound mechanical movement with 17 jewels, beautifully decorated and emblematic of traditional Swiss craftsmanship. The movement has been freshly serviced and is running excellently, keeping strong and reliable time.

This is a true mechanical dress watch—thin, elegant, and designed for longevity rather than complication.

Finishing Touches & Condition

The watch is fitted with a handmade leather strap from Belgium under our brand, chosen to complement the warmth of the yellow gold case. It is secured with a rare Chopard L.U.C. marker 18K pin buckle, an exceptional and collectible detail rarely found intact.

The sapphire crystal is spotless and like new, offering clear views of the striking onyx dial.

Key Details

• Brand: Chopard

• Model: Tank

• Reference: 2012/2

• Era: 1980s

• Case Material: Solid 18K Yellow Gold (~16g gold content)

• Case Size: 25 x 33 mm

• Dial: Original black onyx dial (mirror finish)

• Crown: Onyx cabochon

• Movement: Hand-wound mechanical, 17 jewels

• Service Status: Freshly serviced, excellent timekeeping

• Crystal: Sapphire, perfect condition

• Strap: Handmade leather strap (Belgium)

• Buckle: Rare Chopard L.U.C. 18K gold pin buckle

• Condition: Excellent overall; dial shows light age-consistent marks

Why This Watch?

The Chopard Tank Ref. 2012/2 is a watch for collectors who value discretion, material quality, and genuine Geneva watchmaking pedigree. Far rarer than comparable Cartier Tanks, and produced in significantly lower numbers, it offers a unique alternative with equal—if not greater—horological seriousness.

With its onyx dial, solid gold construction, L.U.C. heritage, and classical Tank form, this is a quietly powerful dress watch—timeless, refined, and unmistakably for those who know.