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Vacheron Constantin Surpasses Its Own Record At Watches & Wonders 2024
As we continue our recap of the exciting new models unveiled at Watches & Wonders Geneva 2024, we turn our attention now to Vacheron Constantin. This year, the venerable Swiss Maison has unveiled a collection that seamlessly blends timeless elegance with groundbreaking complexity. The Overseas collection, known for its sporty sophistication, introduces new models that enhance its reputation for versatility and style. Meanwhile, the Patrimony line, a testament to classic watchmaking, showcases refined designs that pay homage to the brand’s storied heritage. The Égérie collection, designed with a feminine touch, offers exquisite pieces that are both contemporary and elegant. And, in undoubtedly the boldest display yet of Vacheron Constantin’s sublime mastery of both the technical and aesthetic aspects of watchmaking, the Maison debuted the Les Cabinotiers – The Berkley Grand Complication. A masterpiece in every sense of the word, this specially commissioned pocket watch boasts 63 complications, making it the most complicated timepiece ever. Read on for all the fascinating details.
Les Cabinotiers – The Berkley Grand Complication
The Berkley Grand Complication may not be for sale – it was after all specially commissioned by American collector William R. Berkley – but that doesn’t mean we can’t still marvel at its fantastical complexity. Encapsulating an unprecedented 63 complications and 2,877 components, it surpasses Vacheron Constantin’s previous record-holder – the Reference 57260 – to take the mantle of world’s most complicated watch.
One of the standout features of the Berkley Grand Complication is the inclusion of the world’s first Chinese perpetual calendar. This calendar accounts for the complexities and irregularities of the Chinese lunar and solar cycles, displaying the date of the Chinese New Year and other key dates up to the year 2200. It also includes a traditional Gregorian perpetual calendar, a sky chart, a triple-axis tourbillon, and a grande sonnerie with a Westminster carillon chiming the tune sounded by the bells of Big Ben.
The Berkley Grand Complication is presented in a polished 18k white gold case, measuring an impressive 98mm in diameter and 50.55mm thick, and weighs nearly one kilogram. Its dual-face design showcases various astronomical indications on both sides, with intricate details such as the phases of the moon and a sky chart of the constellations visible from Shanghai. Bringing the project to fruition required eleven years of development by a dedicated team of master watchmakers, including one full year dedicated to assembly. A well-known and very passionate collector, Mr Berkely will no doubt be delighted with the outcome of his most ambitious commission yet.
Overseas Collection
Outside of the Berkley Grand Complication, Vacheron Constantin introduced a number of updates across several collections, including new variations of the Overseas Chronograph, Overseas Dual Time, and Overseas Self-Winding, all elegantly crafted in pink gold with striking green dials. Boasting sunburst finishes that play beautifully with the light, these models exude a fresh, luxurious aesthetic, combining the warmth of pink gold with the vibrancy of green. The pink gold cases are complemented by matching bracelets, which can be easily swapped with the included green leather and rubber straps, allowing collectors to customize their look.
The Overseas Chronograph (42.5mm), powered by the Calibre 5200, offers a sporty yet refined appeal, boasting a 52-hour power reserve and precise chronograph functionality. The Overseas Dual Time (41mm), equipped with the Calibre 5110 DT/2, enables wearers to keep track of two time zones simultaneously, making it an ideal companion for the modern traveller. Lastly, the Overseas Self-Winding (41mm), featuring the Calibre 5100, provides an understated elegance with its minimalist design and reliable automatic movement. All models in this collection come with a transparent sapphire case back, offering a glimpse into the meticulous craftsmanship of the in-house movements. Water-resistant to 150 meters, these watches are as functional as they are beautiful, embodying the spirit of adventure and elegance that defines the Overseas Collection.
Patrimony Collection
For the Patrimony collection, the story this year is all about Vacheron Constantin’s new old-silver-toned dials, which were debuted on both the Patrimony Moon Phase and the Patrimony Self-Winding. The Patrimony Moon Phase stands out with its refined moon phase and date display, powered by the Calibre 2460 R31L/2. This movement ensures precision and reliability, with a moon phase accurate to within one day every 122 years. The watch’s minimalist design includes slender hour markers and dauphine hands, which complement the subtlety of the silver-toned dial. The 42.5mm case, available in 18k white gold, provides a classic yet contemporary look, appealing to collectors who value understated elegance.
Even more understated, the Patrimony Self-Winding, driven by the Calibre 2450 Q6/3, maintains the collection’s tradition of timeless design with a focus on functionality. The old-silver-toned dial, adorned with simple baton markers and a date window at 6 o’clock, exudes a sense of purity and balance. The automatic movement offers a 40-hour power reserve and is visible through the sapphire case back, showcasing Vacheron Constantin’s meticulous craftsmanship. Available again in 18k white gold, this 39mm model is versatile and sophisticated, making it a suitable choice for both formal and casual occasions. These new additions to the Patrimony Collection embody the Maison’s dedication to classical watchmaking, appealing to collectors who appreciate the fusion of tradition and innovation.
Égérie Collection
For its feminine Égérie collection, Vacheron Constantin has crafted something truly exquisite, in collaboration with famed designer Yiqing Yin: the limited edition Égérie Moon Phase. Presented in a 37mm round case crafted from 18K 5N pink gold, it captivates with its lilac mother-of-pearl dial with a pleated motif reminiscent of haute couture fabric. The moon phase display is surrounded by 36 round-cut diamonds, while the bezel is adorned with 58 brilliant-cut diamonds and the crown is set with a moonstone. The watch comes with three interchangeable straps: alligator, grained calfskin, and satin-effect calfskin, offering versatile elegance for various occasions.
If you can bring yourself to tear your eyes away from the dial and turn the watch over, you will be greeted by the sight of the in-house Calibre 1088 L, visible in all its glory through a sapphire caseback. In recognition of her contribution, Yiqing Yin’s name is engraved in full on the back, along with the number of this highly-exclusive 100-piece limited edition.
Available At Watches of Switzerland
As a long-time Brand partner of Vacheron Constantin here in Australia, Watches of Switzerland is pleased to be able to offer our esteemed clientele a selection of the most alluring pieces revealed so far. Available throughout the latter part of this year, please contact us to arrange private viewings.
