The house of Vacheron Constantin unveils its latest Métiers d’Art creation, a series of three models inspired by aerial views of the world’s most beautiful cities: the Villes Lumières.
champlevé enameling and hollowing out the gold dial according to the outlines of the streets, gardens, and rivers. The enameller then applied successive layers of translucent colored enamels and, between each coating, fried the dial at the extremely high temperature of 850°C to recreate a night-time atmosphere.
The artist Yoko Imai enlivened the enamel of the watch by creating a fascinating chiaroscuro effect, an optical technique that relies on tonal contrasts between light and dark to recreate three-dimensional forms. The technique of applying precious powders is similar to the one of the art of calligraphy. Using a thin stylus, the powder particles are individually affixed to the surface of the dial. We don’t know how this bonding phase is exactly performed, because the artist uses a secret technique. What we do know is that each of the powder specs is chosen according to its size and shimmer, and positioned in its own predetermined place, without any room for randomness or anything superfluous. The flecks of precious powder interact both amongst themselves and with the dark shades of the Grand Feu enameled background, intense in the dial center and gradually softening towards the edge of the dial.
The timepieces of the Métiers d’Art Villes Lumières collection are certified by the Hallmark of Geneva. They’re presented in 18-karat white gold cases measuring 40mm in diameter. The transparent sapphire crystal back, bearing the engraving of the name of the city, allows the wearer to admire the in-house calibre 2460 SC. This mechanical, self-winding movement is assembled from 182 components and 27 jewels. Providing indications for Hours, minutes and center seconds, it beats at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour. Each of these watches is mounted on a black Mississippiensis alligator leather strap with gold buckle, and water resistant to 30 meters of depth.
Vacheron Constantin Métiers d’Art Villes Lumières collection debuts with three models dedicated to the nocturnal wonders of Geneva, Paris, and New York. Each of these dials is completely unique, and it was hand-crafted during more than three months. The watches are delivered in special presentation box, together with a magnifying glass that provides the owner a chance to admire the workmanship all the way down to the tiniest details. The Villes Lumières theme will also continue over other cities, in the months to come.
Vacheron Constantin Métiers d’Art Villes Lumières is available in a numbered limited edition. Only available in Vacheron Constantin Boutiques.
Vacheron Constantin Métiers d’Art Villes Lumières reference numbers:
86222/000G-B101 – Geneva
86222/000G-B104 – Paris
86222/000G-B105 – New York
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