In 2011, Vacheron Constantin issued a unique piece inspired by the work of Dutch artist Maurits Cornelis Escher. This watch, dubbed Dove, was offered for Only Watch 2011 charity auction. Now only a couple of months later, one of oldest watch manufactures in the world extends the Métiers d’Art collection with introduction of three exceptional pieces inspired by the art of Escher. Each of the models features a subtle and refined blend of graphic art and most demanding decorative techniques of haute horlogerie.
Métiers d’Art – Les Univers Infinis is inspired by the technique mostly used by Maurits Cornelis Escher – tessellation. Tessellation is a technique that uses repetitive geometric shapes, molten together with no overlaps and gaps, to create two-dimensional planes. The effect is a pattern of shapes that perfectly fit together, often resulting in astonishing visual paradoxes, or optical illusions.
The technique of tessellation is a perfect example of visualization of mathematical principles and dexterous play with Euclidean and non-Euclidean geometries. Métiers d’Art – Les Univers Infinis collection combines principles of mathematics and aesthetic expression through enamelling, gemsetting, engraving and guilloché work. Each of the models from Les Univers Infinis is offered in a limited edition of 20 exemplars. The whole range is a boutique exclusive, available only through the Vacheron Constantin Internal Boutiques.
Vacheron Constantin Les Univers Infinis Dove Watch
The Dove Watch, made after the unique piece for Only Watch, features a depiction of doves in flight. The work on the dial begins when the master engraver draws the outline of the doves on a yellow gold dial base. The cavities are then filled with vitreous enamel and fired until the enamel melts. When this is complete, the gemsetter highlights one of the doves, by arranging sparkling white diamonds on its surface. The final touch is done by gulliocher who accentuates the depth effect of the dial using the mastery of relief.
Vacheron Constantin Les Univers Infinis Fish Watch
The Fish Watch combines the shades of blue and grey to create a pattern of intertwining fishes. The pattern is cut out from a base made of white gold and the motifs are marked out using the technique of cloisonné enameling where fine golden wire is used to separate different enamel colors. The eyes of the fish are engraved while tenth-of-a-millimeter symmetrical motifs create vividness and depth of the composition.
Vacheron Constantin Les Univers Infinis Shell Watch
The Shell Watch is a maritime composition formed by arranging the shapes of shells and starfishes and molten together using engraving and champlevé enamelling techniques. The traces of shapes are first made on the dial using a drypoint, only to be filled with vitreous enamel and fried at a temperature of 800° to 850°C. The surface of the starfishes is then carefully engraved to make it even more delicate and realistic.
References for Métiers d’Art Les Univers Infinis watches are 86222/000G-9689, 86222/000G-9685, and 86222/000G-9726. Each of these watches utilizes mechanical self-winding 2460 SC movement, developed and manufactured by Vacheron Constantin. The watches apply to the new rules for Hallmark of Geneva, bearing the seal on the movement. The movement offers approximately 40 hours of power reserve and provides indications for hours, minutes and center seconds.
Metiers d Art
Author: Marina Milojević
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