Vacheron Constantin Unveils the Grand Lady Kalla: A Tribute to Timeless Elegance and Innovation
Since its founding in 1755, Vacheron Constantin has nurtured a profound bond with women, reflected in the Maison’s commitment to combining elegance with exceptional craftsmanship in Haute Joaillerie. The Grand Lady Kalla, a stunning addition to this legacy, showcases over 46 carats of exclusively emerald-cut diamonds in a design that pays homage to the iconic Kalla introduced in 1980 and its predecessor, the Kallista, from 1979. This new masterpiece exemplifies Vacheron Constantin’s creative freedom and expertise.
A Tribute to History
In 1979, Vacheron Constantin made history with the Kallista, a watch boasting 130 carats of diamonds and a design by Raymond Morretti. Crafted from a solid gold ingot, the Kallista was the world’s most expensive watch creation at the time. Its successor, the Kalla, introduced in 1980, continued this tradition of opulence with 108 emerald-cut diamonds totaling around 30 carats. The Kalla became an icon, inspiring a collection of singular creations that have garnered unanimous acclaim, including the white gold Lady Kalla, which won the Jewellery Watch award at the first Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève in 2001, and the Lady Kalla Flamme, introduced in 2010.
In 2024, the Grand Lady Kalla continues this legacy, named after the Greek word kallista, meaning “the most beautiful.” From the initial sketch to the final polish, the Grand Lady Kalla is a testament to Vacheron Constantin’s dedication to excellence. The piece features 57-facet emerald-cut diamonds, meticulously set to highlight their crystal-clear clarity. The dial, slightly slimmed to reflect contemporary tastes, showcases the master gem-setter’s meticulous work, with prongs modernized to emphasize the stones. The sautoir necklace, adorned with onyx and diamonds, and Akoya pearl tassels, creates a dialogue between Art Deco and the 21st century.
A Jewel on the Wrist
The Grand Lady Kalla, a Haute Joaillerie masterpiece, embodies the Maison’s commitment to excellence. The emerald-cut diamonds, chosen for their pure crystalline material, are paired beautifully, with 131 diamonds selected for their color, clarity, and luminosity. The precision of the setting allows the diamonds to express their true nature, creating a captivating sparkle. The sautoir necklace, featuring a mobile ornament paved with 15 diamonds and a GIA-certified center stone over 2 carats, is a transformable piece that can be worn on both the necklace and the bracelet.
Four Original Ways to Wear
The Grand Lady Kalla offers a quartet of wearability options, allowing it to transition from wrist to neckline seamlessly. This versatile design echoes Vacheron Constantin’s long history of creativity and innovation. Inspired by ladies’ pendant watches from the early 20th century, such as the 1924 model that transformed from a pendant to a brooch, the Grand Lady Kalla can be easily converted without tools. The watch can be removed from the bracelet and attached to the sautoir necklace, which in turn can accommodate the watch, reviving the elegant gestures of the past.
Conclusion
The Grand Lady Kalla is more than a timepiece; it is a tribute to Vacheron Constantin’s enduring legacy of elegance, creativity, and masterful craftsmanship. This dazzling creation, with its versatile wearability and exquisite design, continues to honor the powerful bond between the Maison and women, celebrating over two and a half centuries of exceptional watchmaking and jewellery artistry.
For more information, please visit Vacheron-Constantin.com.
