How do you maintain a worldclass brand for the better part of three centuries? Evolve with the times.
Vacheron Constantin has been at the forefront of watchmaking for just shy of 270 years, making it the longest-continually operating timepiece manufacturer, adapting to new styles and technology along the way since 1755.
As the tastes of watch aficionados shift towards quiet luxury, dress watches have started making a comeback. This desire for chic minimalism has knocked the sports and diving watches from their pedestals. From their intended dress purpose to more casual settings, Vacheron Constantin’s dress timepieces are suited to any occasion, with classic designs that defy trends.
For the artisans at Vacheron Constantin, there is a wealth of archival styles from the Maison to build upon, while still looking toward the future. Why not borrow from centuries of know-how?
The Patrimony is one design that has certainly stood the test of time—inspired and informed by the boundary-pushing, ultra-thin designs of the 1950s, today’s Patrimony is powered by the manual-winding Calibre 1440, which boasts a 2.6 mm thickness. First released in 2004, the Maison has quietly evolved the watch over the last 20 years.
The Patrimony and its predecessors are examples of the Maison “achieving extreme understatement, rooting the watch firmly in a spirit of timeless modernity,” said Christian Selmoni, Style & Heritage Director for the Maison.
Now, three new models of The Patrimony have been released with features including a new sunburst antique silver-toned dial, updated strap colours, and a customizable case back for engraving. While minimalism is key to The Patrimony’s design, these watches are far from dull. The new models are available in white and rose gold, with straps in azure blue or olive green for a splash of colour in the otherwise simple design.
Patrimony moon phase retrograde date 42.5mm white gold, Vacheron Constantin, $49,400
Patrimony manual-winding 39mm white gold, Vacheron Constantin, $25,200
Patrimony manual-winding 39mm pink gold, Vacheron Constantin, $25,200
The Traditionnelle tourbillon chronograph watch, which debuted in 2020, is another testament to the Maison’s history of craftsmanship, having combined the two prestigious tourbillon and chronograph complications.
The Traditionnelle has now joined the Collection Excellence Platine with a limited platinum edition. The collection features watches crafted with platinum—a precious metal prized by watchmakers—for their cases, dials and buckles. Even the stitching along the dark blue alligator straps is done with platinum thread.
Traditionnelle tourbillon chronograph Collection Excellence Platine 42.5mm platinum, Vacheron Constantin, Priced upon request
The collection offers “emblematic timepieces in all registers, from three-hand timepieces to the most complicated horological creations,” according to Selmoni. The collection shines a light on designs that the Maison is most proud of.
“The only common denominator was the use of an exceptional, noble and rare metal for exceptional watches,” said Selmoni.
Discover more styles from Vacheron Constantin here.