Here at WCL we’ve limited the hands-on reviews of ladies’ watches because as men we don’t feel fully qualified to pass judgment on a watch that is meant to be worn by a woman. However, from time to time we will tap into a lady with exquisite taste to helps us evaluate and judge a watch from her standpoint. The Vacheron Constantin Égérie is the newest collection unveiled by the brand at the beginning of the year and this is the first time that we get to peruse one of their watches in the metal. And Oh boy! what a pleasant experience being able to review such a tasteful ladies’ watch for the very first time.
The Vacheron Constantin Egérie Selfwinding is available in either 18K 5N pink gold or in stainless steel with a 35 mm case size. The 37 mm case is reserved for the Égérie Moon Phase model. This new watch like the new generation of Vacheron Constantin Overseas, benefits from an interchangeable strap system offering versatility and variety. Its off-centered dial layout highlights the position of the crown between 1 and 2 o’clock, and its pleated effect is reminiscent of delicate fabric finishing, brought to life by the art of tapestry.
Things to Know About the Watch
The Vacheron Constantin Égérie Selfwinding reference 4605F/000R-B496 is one of those watches that taps into the rich history of the oldest watch manufacture in the world with a very contemporary interpretation. This new watch doesn’t look like your grandmother’s watch and is perfectly designed to grace the wrist of a woman in her twenties or in her sixties.
With a feminine name for a watch inspired by women, the name comes from the famous nymph Egeria featured in Roman mythology to the contemporary muses who inspire artists, designers, and other creative talents.
The pebble-shaped 35 mm case which happens to be perfectly sized even for slimmer wrists, features a diamond-set bezel that looks like a ‘halo’. Along with the bezel, the texture on the silvered opaline dial with concentric circles and pleats plays with the light in a formidable way. A delicate interplay of textures and intertwined shapes, alternating flat and subtly raised areas; a pleated effect reminiscent of fabric makes this dial simply beautiful.
The 18K pink gold applied Arabic numerals —in an italicized font— are daintily scalloped like lace to adorn the dial and bring further depth to it. Applied over a snailed perimeter, they play with the ‘feuille’ shaped 18K pink gold hands and complement the bezel set with 58 round-cut diamonds.
The gorgeous dial further gets enhanced by a ring with 34 round-cut diamonds. The ring, positioned between 1 and 2 o’clock delicately frames the date aperture that features only odd numerals. In the same position, the winding crown is located on the caseband. near the top right lug. The winding crown is adorned with a cabochon-cut moonstone and it rises in all glory. Yet another interesting and delicate design touch.
The Vacheron Constantin Égérie Selfwinding is supplied with three different straps and an 18K pink gold half-Maltese cross pin buckle. The watch features a clever interchangeable strap system that allows the wearer to switch straps simply by pressing the button located on the back of the strap without the need for any tools. A great addition to this new collection that amplifies versatility and the ability to match the strap to different outfits, especially because the ladies like it that way.
The Movement
Visible via the display case back is the beating hear of the new Vacheron Constantin Égérie. Powered by the Vacheron Constantin in-house calibre 1088, this 144-parts and 26-jewel automatic movement features a 22K gold open-worked oscillating weight with the Maltese cross and that provides a 40-hour power reserve while beating at a frequency of 28,800 vph.
On the Wrist & Price
On the wrist, the Vacheron Constantin Égérie Selfwinding ref. 4605F/000R-B496 wears true to its size and really well thanks to its 35 mm case size which happens to be a good sweet spot in terms of size for most ladies. With impeccable presence, this is a watch that works very well if you decide to go with a casual look or a fully dressed up one. The ability to change straps in a matter of seconds makes the watch extremely versatile. The diamond-set bezel along with the diamond ring on the dial gives the watch the right amount of bling without trying too hard. A fantastic release by Vacheron Constantin will make those pretty wrists look even better.
Sticker Price $28,200 USD in 18K pink gold and $20,200 USD for stainless steel on bracelet. For more info on Vacheron Constantin click here.
