The unique timepieces within the newly introduced Les Cabinotiers – Récits de Voyages collection reflect Vacheron Constantin’s expansive geographical presence. Since its early history, the Maison has engaged with emerging markets around the Mediterranean, establishing trade connections with Turkey in 1817 and subsequently with Egypt in 1865. The Maison’s roots in New York since 1832, a city soon to be adorned with Art Deco skyscrapers, inspired the creation of the Les Cabinotiers Minute Repeater Tourbillon – Tribute to Art Deco style and Tribute to Arabesque watches. Both timepieces are driven by the in-house Calibre 2755 TMR, featuring the tourbillon and minute repeater complications.
Les Cabinotiers Minute Repeater Tourbillon – Tribute to Arabesque
Vacheron Constantin’s connection with the Middle East traces back to 1817 with Turkey and later to Egypt from 1865. The historical depth of these trade relations, particularly with influential figures and ruling families, has resulted in exceptional timepieces that are part of watchmaking history. The Les Cabinotiers Minute Repeater Tourbillon – Tribute to Arabesque watch pays homage to the architectural richness of the Muslim world, drawing inspiration from the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi. The intricate engravings on the watch reflect the pointed arches, domes, and mashrabiyas, taking three months of meticulous work for tenth-of-a-millimeter precision.
The motifs, inspired by the mosque’s arabesque and floral patterns, are replicated using line engraving on various case parts. The dial, resembling mashrabiyas, features an openworked and engraved white gold “lattice-work cover” on a black background. The detailed craftsmanship, taking a month to complete, showcases a rare feat of dexterity. The watch, bearing the Hallmark of Geneva, is presented in an 18K white gold case with a diameter of 44 mm and thickness of 13.5 mm, complemented by an alligator leather strap secured by a white gold folding clasp engraved with arabesques.
Les Cabinotiers Minute Repeater Tourbillon – Tribute to Art Deco Style
In the Americas, the Maison expanded its trade from the 1810s, notably with the United States. By the early 20th century, Vacheron Constantin had established a strong presence in America, catering to eminent families such as the Rockefellers and the Packards. The rise of Art Deco skyscrapers in Manhattan, including the iconic Chrysler Building, inspired the creation of the Les Cabinotiers Minute Repeater Tourbillon – Tribute to Art Deco Style watch. The dial, a fusion of wood marquetry and champlevé, draws on the artistic elements of the Art Deco period, reflecting the interior decorations typical of that era. The watch features meticulous engraving on its 18K 5N pink gold case, enhancing its allure. This model, bearing the Hallmark of Geneva, comes in a case with a diameter of 44 mm and thickness of 13.5 mm, accompanied by an alligator leather strap secured by a folding clasp engraved with geometrical motifs.
A Complex Mechanism: In-house Calibre 2755 TMR
The manual-winding 2755 TMR movement combines the melodic charm of a minute repeater with the precision of a Maltese cross-shaped tourbillon regulator. The 2.5 Hz (18,000 vibrations per hour) frequency allows for a full appreciation of its complexity, with the tourbillon being the only mechanical element visible from the front. The mechanism compensates for the Earth’s gravity and features a 58-hour power reserve displayed on the back. The Les Cabinotiers Récits de Voyages series exemplifies Vacheron Constantin’s commitment to perfecting watchmaking in Geneva while embracing global influences. The series, serving as a watchmaking odyssey, pays tribute to the Maison’s founders, Jacques-Barthélémi Vacheron and François Constantin, who laid the groundwork for the brand’s global journey. Through craftsmanship and mechanical art, Vacheron Constantin continues to express its values and heritage in this nearly 270-year history.
For more information, please visit Vacheron-Constantin.com.