Chopard Onyx - Integrated Laykin & Co Stamped Retailer Signature Dial
A Masterclass In Eighties Opulence
The 1970s and 80s were a playground for Chopard, a period where they moved away from traditional watchmaking constraints to focus on high-concept jewelry pieces that happened to tell time. This Ref. 2036 1 is a heavy hitter from that era. It features a deep, bottomless onyx dial housed in a yellow gold case, but the real draw is the "Retailer Signature" with Laykin & Co. Retailer stamps like this are historical fingerprints; Laykin & Co. was the premier luxury destination at the Fairmont Hotel in Los Angeles, catering to the Hollywood elite. Seeing their name alongside Chopard on a dial like this anchors the watch to a very specific, high-society West Coast history.
Bamboo Gold And Deep Onyx
The design language here is unapologetically bold. The integrated 14K yellow gold bracelet is finished in a "bamboo" style, a texture that was incredibly popular for high-end jewelry-watches during this period because of how it catches the light without looking like a standard flat link. The contrast between the organic, textured gold and the stark, sterile black of the onyx dial creates a balance that feels sophisticated rather than loud. It is a configuration that captures the exact energy of 1980s luxury.
Condition And Reality
The watch is in good, honest condition. The 18K yellow gold case and bezel have maintained their definition, and the integrated bracelet remains structurally sound with a total weight of nearly 100 grams, giving it a significant, high-quality presence on the wrist. The onyx dial is clean, showing no cracks or chips which is the primary concern with stone dials from this era. Mechanically, the movement is running strong after passing our test bench.
Why It Works
This is a piece for the collector who wants something that feels like an artifact. It sits in that perfect pocket of being a serious horological item due to the Chopard pedigree and Laykin & Co. stamp, while functioning primarily as a piece of sculptural jewelry. It works because it doesn't try to be an everyday tool; it is a specialized, era-defining statement that remains wearable today because of its refined proportions and classic color palette. It’s a distinct choice for someone who values provenance and style in equal measure.
At Danny's Vintage Watches, we rigorously authenticate and inspect every watch to guarantee both its authenticity and exceptional quality. Your complete satisfaction is our utmost priority. We are dedicated to guiding you to the ideal timepiece that meets your desires. Should you have any inquiries, our team is ready to provide swift and comprehensive assistance.
Our Guarantee:
- Each timepiece is thoroughly evaluated, authenticated, and approved by our expert team before it is offered for sale.
- We guarantee the period-correctness of all components unless otherwise stated.
- The authenticity of each watch is guaranteed in perpetuity.
To get in contact directly with the team send us a text for the quickest response! 917-887-1584
If you are interested in trading or selling your watch please click here, and fill the form
Payments
We are committed to providing a secure and seamless payment experience. Our site features a built-in payment processor that accepts most major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express). U.S. residents also have the option to pay via Zelle. If you prefer to pay via bank wire, which will be slightly cheaper, please send a text to 917-887-1584 so we can reserve the item you wish to purchase.
Shipping
We ship via FedEx, USPS, UPS, and DHL, depending on the item's value and your location. All domestic shipments are fully insured.
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What Our Clients Say About Us
I knew I was gonna like Danny, based on his name, but nothing could’ve prepared me for how great of an experience this was. He had the most beautiful 70s Seamaster Cosmic on his website and I was set to be married 2 days later - I arranged to buy it but before leaving we both realized it needed to be serviced. I panicked, because I was literally buying this for my wedding, and Danny being the legend he is, loaned me a nearly identical Seamaster to make sure I could get through the event Never have I had someone go so above and beyond for me, especially while purchasing one of the lesser priced items in their inventory. He serviced my watch and exchanged it with me after the wedding on a super fast turnaround timeline. I would sincerely recommend you visit this guy, you will not be disappointed Edit: adding a pic of the loaner (two tone) and the owner (crosshair)
Great service and shop. Danny and his team were incredibly accommodating, professional, and kind. Great selection of vintage watches. Their store is the hidden gem in the diamond district.
This was my first real luxury watch purchase, a Rolex 15200 Date 34mm, I own Tissots and a Laco, but those are entry level luxury watches. I found Danny’s Vintage Watches online, and had great feedback both on Google, Chrono24 and the Reddit watch community. So decided to give him a shot as buying online can be a crap shoot. Ordered Monday night, was at my doorstep Friday morning. Despite the watch being over 30 years old, serial number says it’s from 91, the watch looked new. Didn’t come with box or papers, and was shipped in a plastic sleeve wrapped in bubble wrap. Danny was always available to answer questions. I’ll be buying from Danny again for the next purchase…saw a couple of Speedmasters on his site I liked….
Can't recommend Danny's vintage watches enough!!! My first Omega ever and im in love have been wearing every day since I purchased it. Danny's shop is a must visit if you are in NYC looking for a watch!!!