Carefully chosen by specialists in the Maison’s heritage departments for their patience and talent, vintage watches spanning the entire 20th century now form an integral part of the appropriately named “Les Collectionneurs” collection. This collection continues to evolve over time and is regularly presented for sale to dedicated brand enthusiasts at events held in Vacheron Constantin boutiques worldwide. Each Les Collectionneurs model is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity and a two-year guarantee, an unparalleled offer in the world of watchmaking. Since 2008, Vacheron Constantin has made vintage watchmaking its specialty through the Les Collectionneurs range, providing a glimpse into the Maison’s 20th-century world.
Comprising continuously updated selections of vintage timepieces, this collection is now accessible on the Maison’s website. Interested customers can explore the unique features of the newly discovered watches curated by Vacheron Constantin’s experts and inquire about the specifics of this particular offer and its presentation. Visitors also have the option to express interest in other vintage timepieces for which Maison Experts can provide guidance. Although these vintage models are showcased online, they are exclusively available for purchase in Vacheron Constantin boutiques. This presents an opportunity for collectors to indicate their interest by registering on the site and scheduling appointments at forthcoming boutiques in the United States, Shanghai, and Dubai.
Historical and technical expertise
Maison’s Heritage experts are tasked with acquiring these watches from their extensive network. Serving as a reference, Vacheron Constantin’s exceptional archives cover three centuries of history, beginning with the first document recorded in 1711—the apprenticeship contract signed by Jean-Marc Vacheron. These archives, comprising approximately 420 linear meters of sales and production registers, correspondence, and other iconographic documents, are complemented by 1,600 horological items from the 18th century to the present day. This wealth of documentation enables the Maison’s experts to ensure the traceability of all timepieces produced since 1775.
Upon acquiring a vintage timepiece, the first step involves recording the serial numbers of the case and movement, stored in the Vacheron Constantin archives for authentication purposes. Subsequently, a technical diagnosis determines whether the model requires simple cleaning, repair for malfunction, or more fundamental interventions such as the replacement or supply of faulty or missing components. Challenges like a corroded dial, missing hands, blunt-toothed gears, or a pitted barrel spring are expertly addressed within the Maison’s three workshops, each handling models according to their age. Watchmakers can restore any watch produced by the Maison since its inception, always respecting the work of previous artisans to maintain the integrity of the timepiece.
To carry out these tasks, watchmakers have stocks of period components and a fleet of historical machines to recreate specific movement components if necessary. Major operations performed on a timepiece are comprehensively documented in a booklet provided to the client, explaining each stage of the restoration process. Upon completion of these historical authentication and maintenance techniques, the watches are delivered with a certificate of authenticity, a two-year warranty, and a blockchain-based Digital Passport, ensuring trust and transparency throughout the timepiece’s future lifetime.
For more information, please visit Vacheron-Constantin.com.