Under the roof, the 20-year-old Alcaraz subjected the unfortunate Chardy to a high-profile pummelling, firing down ferocious serves and rasping forehands with frightening power.
Chardy, the former world number 25 who reached the fourth round here in 2014 and boasts a win over Federer, finally got on the scoreboard with a service hold greeted by warm applause.
Tougher tests will come for Alcaraz with the likes of Germany's Alexander Zverev and Alex de Minaur lurking in his section of the draw.
He has that game style and consistency and then he's also the showman," the Australian told the BBC.
"He's got a bit of Novak, he's got a bit of me and a bit of Rafa.
Persons:
Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz, France’s Jeremy Chardy, Andrew Couldridge, Carlos Alcaraz, Jeremy Chardy, Roger Federer, Alcaraz, Chardy, Germany's Alexander Zverev, Alex de Minaur, Nick Kyrgios, He's, he's, Novak, Rafa, It's, Martyn Herman, Ed Osmond
Organizations:
Lawn Tennis, Croquet Club, Spaniard, Federer, BBC, Thomson
Locations:
London, Britain