La Quête draws inspiration from the exploits of mythological and historical figures from diverse cultures and eras, embodying courage, perseverance, and ingenuity. Each timepiece conveys a human adventure, where determination and boldness chart the path to achievement and discovery.
SAVE YOUR EYES, PRESS PLAY TO LISTEN
Mechanics and art, a narrative alliance
Rather than a single calibre, the collection relies on a family of mechanisms chosen for what they express. Astronomical indications mark cycles we live with ; satellite or wandering hours suggest travel ; minute repeaters lend time a human voice. Dual sided constructions are used where separation clarifies complex stories. Power, regulation and tone are refined at the bench so the image can breathe. Technique and Métiers d’Art move together to tell each chapter with clarity.
Métiers d’Art at the heart of creation
Taille douce engraving draws the grain of a mane, the line of a shield and the edge of a landscape. Grand feu enamelling builds colour in thin layers, fired and cooled until the tone settles. White gold micro sculpture sets a quiet relief that catches light without glare. Gem-setting is used with restraint so stones serve the rhythm of the scene. Metals, stones and pigments are chosen for how they hold memory over time. Each surface is finished by hand, bevelled and polished where needed, so the image and the indications live together.
From metal to movement
In the workshops, components are machined from precious metals and steel to tolerances measured in hundredths of a millimetre. Bridges are milled, wheels cut and pinions turned, then each surface is dressed by hand with deburring, bevels, straight graining and black polish. Jewels are set to control end shake, springs are formed and adjusted, and repeater gongs are profiled then tuned for a clear, even note. Parts are assembled and taken down several times until the train runs freely and the escapement breathes. This quiet groundwork does not seek attention, yet it holds the whole narrative together: the scene on the dial is carried by the precision inside.
MORE INFO
Vacheron Constantin celebrates its 270th anniversary and its enduring quest for excellence with a new series of Les Cabinotiers watches entitled 'La Quête', which pays tribute to astronomy and the odysseys of ancient times. Representing significant technical and aesthetic challenges, these watches highlight Vacheron Constantin's expertise in the creation of grand complication watches enhanced by the artistic crafts. The Les Cabinotiers Armillary Tourbillon – Myth of the Pleiades watch refers to the 'Seven Sisters' of Greek mythology, which were transformed into stars in the constellation of Taurus and served as a vital navigation point for sailors in ancient times. These themes are represented by intricate hand-engraving on the case sides. The watch is equipped with Calibre 1990, a manufacture movement protected by four patents and incorporating a bi-axial tourbillon and bi-retrograde time indications.
RELATED POSTS
Social Plugin