We’ve taken a lot of trips with watch brands and have experienced some incredible watch experiences that money can’t buy, but nothing will ever compare to the few days we spent in Paris with Vacheron Constantin for the release of the new Metiérs d’Art Tribute to Great Civilizations set of watches. As we embarked on the trip of a lifetime, we were not even sure what Vacheron Constantin had in store for us.
Flying from Dallas to Paris on Air France was very enjoyable, but our stay at the Hôtel de Crillon takes the center stage as this hotel is one of the top three hotels in Paris, and its location at the Place de la Concorde overlooking the Egyptian Luxor Obelisk —gifted by Egypt to the French in the 19th century— could’ve not been a better setting for the special watches that were about to be presented.
The Hôtel de Crillon is a Rosewood Hotel that opened up in 1909 and is nested in a building dating to 1758. Adjacent to the hotel two very important organizations are located. First, the FIA —Federation Internationale de l’Automobile— which is the governing body for world motorsports and the federation of the world's leading motoring organizations, and second, the Automobile Club de France where we had a special lunch on the second day of our trip.
After checking in, we were presented with the new Metiérs d’Art Tribute to Great Civilizations set of watches, followed by a very special lunch in the company of Louis Ferla —CEO of Vacheron Constantin—, Christian Selmoni —Artistic Director of Vacheron Constantin— and other top executives from the brand. A decadent lunch at the Jardin d’Hiver. After lunch, of course, we had to pay a visit to our favorite maroquinier in Paris, Faure Le Page, followed by a top-notch cocktail reception hosted by Vacheron Constantin.
Even though this whole trip was simply epic and out of this world, it wasn’t until the second day in Paris that things got really impressive. We started our day with a private tour at the Louvre Museum where we checked out the pieces of art —the Lion of Darius, the Grand Sphinx of Tanis, the winged Victory of Samothrace, and the Bust of Augustus— that were the inspiration for the new Metiérs d’Art Tribute to Great Civilizations watches. Being inside the Louvre Museum with no one around other than our small group is one of those life experiences that are really hard to describe. And of course, we had to check out the Mona Lisa while we were there and do the obligatory wristshot with the Vacheron Constantin American 1921 in 18K rose gold that was on our wrist.
Afterward, a decadent lunch was served at the Automobile Club de France with one of the most impressive buffets we’ve ever attended. Everything ranging from hand-cut Iberico ham to different seafood options, foie gras paté en croûtre, salads, meats, and spectacular desserts were part of this lunch followed by a visit to the members-only terrace atop of the club.
Then finally, the most amazing part of the trip took place in the evening with a once-in-a-lifetime gala night inside the Louvre Museum. What else in the world can trump this type of experience? Really, nothing.
During our dinner at the museum, we were treated to an incredible four-course meal by renowned chef Frédéric Anton, Meilleur Ouvrier de France, and the recipient of three Michelin stars. He was the chef at Le Pré Catelan and is currently the chef at Le Jules Verne restaurant located in the Eiffel Tower. On the menu, green asparagus with candied lemon, elderflower, and caviar; seabass with fennel salad in marinière sauce with truffle shavings; roasted chicken breast with Roman-style artichokes and for dessert, a honey light mousse in a crunchy sugar sphere with raspberry coulis.
Upon arrival at the museum, we enjoyed signature cocktails that were expressly developed for the occasion and inspired by the four civilizations behind the Metiérs d’Art Tribute to Great Civilizations watches. Decadent hors d'oeuvres and amazing music by a full orchestra and a remarkable soprano. Not to mention that all night we were delighted to endless pours of Louis Roederer Cristal champagne, remarkably balanced and refined with an inimitable finish.
In all, the best watch experience we’ve ever attended and one that will live in our hearts forever. Thank you Vacheron Constantin for having us and congratulations on the release of these gorgeous new Metiérs d’Art watches.
For more info on Vacheron Constantin click here.
