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High Jewelry & Watches

Chopard Happy Diamonds at 50: The Dancing Diamonds That Changed Jewelry

In 1976 Chopard set diamonds free between two sapphire crystals. Fifty years later, the Maison celebrates with Heritage re-editions and a New York party.

What if diamonds could move? In 1976, Chopard answered that question with a watch that let diamonds dance freely between two sapphire crystals. Fifty years later, Happy Diamonds is one of the most recognizable ideas in jewelry, and Chopard is celebrating.

At a glance

  • Anniversary: 50 years of Happy Diamonds (1976–2026).
  • New watches: Happy Diamonds Heritage in 34 mm (CHF 40,000) and 24 mm (CHF 19,800).
  • Also: Happy Sport The First, seven re-editions of the 1993 model, CHF 5,500–37,000.
  • Launch: September 15, 2026, celebrated in New York with Bella Hadid and Liu Wen.

How did Happy Diamonds begin?

The idea is credited to Chopard designer Ronald Kurowski, who was inspired by a waterfall and imagined diamonds tumbling like drops of light. The first Happy Diamonds watches of 1976 came in cushion-shaped cases with black dials, their loose diamonds rolling with every movement of the wrist. In 1985, Caroline Scheufele took the concept into jewelry with the Happy Clown pendant, and Happy Diamonds became a family of watches and jewels.

What are the 2026 Happy Diamonds Heritage watches?

  • 34 mm: 18k ethical yellow gold, black onyx dial, 21 dancing diamonds, hand-wound Chopard 10.01-C movement with a 45-hour power reserve. CHF 40,000.
  • 24 mm: 18k ethical yellow gold, black onyx dial, 9 dancing diamonds, quartz. CHF 19,800.

Diamonds set free: the simplest idea, and the hardest to copy.

Frequently asked questions

When were Chopard Happy Diamonds created?

In 1976.

How much is the Happy Diamonds Heritage watch?

CHF 40,000 for the 34 mm and CHF 19,800 for the 24 mm.

Sources: Watchonista · WWD


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Editor’s note: This story is for general information and is not financial, investment or appraisal advice. Prices, estimates and availability can change; please confirm with the brand, retailer or auction house. Some links may be affiliate links. Spot an error? Request a correction.


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