Vacheron Constantin Unveils Métiers d’Art—Tribute to the Quest of Time

Celebrating its 270th anniversary, Vacheron Constantin has unveiled one of its most ambitious and poetic creations to date, the Métiers d’Art – Tribute to the Quest of Time. This double-sided wristwatch embodies both technical mastery and artistic refinement, offering collectors and horological enthusiasts a piece that is as much an artistic tableau as it is a feat of mechanical innovation.

Presented in an 18K white gold case and produced in a strictly limited edition of 20 numbered examples, this creation pays homage to the maison’s enduring pursuit of excellence since its founding in 1755.

At the heart of this masterpiece lies the new Calibre 3670, a manually wound movement developed entirely in-house. It required three years of research and development and incorporates 512 components, including 55 jewels.

The calibre is notable not only for its mechanical complexity but also for its forward-looking achievements, evidenced by four patent applications. Beating at a high frequency of 5 Hertz, or 36,000 vibrations per hour, it delivers an impressive 144 hours of power reserve. Measuring 34 mm across and 7.8 mm in thickness, the movement represents a remarkable feat of miniaturisation.

The front dial presents time as a living tableau. A meticulously crafted three-dimensional titanium figure, given a golden patina finish, serves as the hands of the watch, with its arms indicating the hours and minutes through a double-retrograde display. This system is innovative in offering two modes of viewing: continuous or on-demand, allowing the wearer to interact with time either as a constant presence or a discreet revelation.

The background features the Geneva sky as it appeared on September 17, 1755, the day of the maison’s founding, grounding the piece in both heritage and astronomy. A three-dimensional titanium moon, hand-engraved and treated with PVD finishing, enhances the scene with a precision moon phase and indication of the age of the moon. A double retrograde power reserve display completes the poetic front.

The reverse side continues the astronomical journey with a celestial chart that maps the constellations in real time. This complication is engineered with extraordinary accuracy, remaining correct to within a single day over the course of 9,130 years.

It also displays the sidereal day, reinforcing the scientific depth of the watch. Surrounding the display are two arc-shaped appliqués in 18K gold with opaline finish, alongside 27 applied hour markers in 18K 3N yellow gold, creating a refined celestial stage.

The case, measuring 43 mm in diameter and 13.58 mm in thickness, is crafted in 18K white gold and offers water resistance to 3 bar. Protecting the artistry are sapphire crystals on both sides, ensuring clarity and durability.

The watch is secured by a dark blue alligator leather strap with an alligator lining, hand-stitched using gold thread, and fastened with an 18K white gold folding clasp. Certified with the prestigious Poinçon de Genève, the Métiers d’Art – Tribute to the Quest of Time is available exclusively through Vacheron Constantin boutiques.

By translating the grandeur of the historical La Quête du Temps astronomical clock into a wearable format, Vacheron Constantin has created a bridge between monumental horology and personal expression.

The Métiers d’Art – Tribute to the Quest of Time embodies the maison’s 270-year journey, defined by artistry, innovation, and a profound respect for time itself. Destined to become a treasure in the world of haute horology, it captures both the tangible precision of mechanics and the intangible poetry of the stars.