Vacheron Constantin is pursuing its dialogue with collectors and devotees of Haute Horlogerie by enriching its Métiers d’Art legend of the Chinese zodiac with the sign of the rooster. The latter will take over from that of the monkey at the Chinese New Year on January 28th 2017. Bearing the Hallmark of Geneva, these two new creations, realized in twelve models each, combine the technical excellence of the calibre 2460 G4 with the beauty of artistic crafts.
China is a nation with which the watch manufacturer has been cultivating its ties since 1845.
The foliage motif appearing on the dial and based on classic Chinese iconography is etched directly in the metal. The pattern remains semi-embedded and stands out from its gold bas by a subtle stage-setting of variously accentuating reliefs creating a depth effect. This makes the vegetation appear to be floating over the dial.
The enamel is applied on the surface in successive layers which enhances the intensity of the blue or bronze-toned dial. Achieving the necessary mastery of colour and of reactions to firing at temperatures between 800 and 900 degrees Celsisus calls for expertise that only can be acquired through years of experience.
The rooster, made of platinum or pink gold, is hand engraved and applied to the dial centre.
The cases are made of platinum or pink gold and measure 40 mm in diameter while being water-resistant up to 3 bar.
Inside the Métiers d’Art The Legend of the Chines zodiac – Year of the rooster works the calibre 2460 G4, a mechanical, self-winding in-house movement. It shows hours, minutes, days and dates completely hands-free but through apertures. These indications – the first two of the dragging variety and the last two of the jumping type – embody the longstanding savoir-faire of the Maison in designing and developing original displays.
Visible through the sapphire crystal back, the oscillating weight is adorned with a recurrent Maltese cross pattern. All movement components are indeed finely finished in accordance with the criteria of the Hallmark of Geneva.
The Métiers d’Art The Legend of the Chines zodiac – Year of the rooster watches are equipped with a dark blue or brown, hand-stitched leather bracelets. Both models are limited to 12 pieces per reference.
