Adding up to the already amazing lineup of the Vacheron Constantin FiftySix collection —first unveiled at the SIHH 2018— comes the new FiftySix Tourbillon ref. 6000E/000R-B488. Not only this is the first major complication in the new FiftySix collection, but this is also an automatic tourbillon powered by an ultra-thin movement with a peripheral oscillating weight that enables an even slimmer construction and unobstructed views of the full movement that often gets somewhat blocked by the use of a solid central oscillating weight. The FiftySix collection is a retro-contemporary new line of timepieces that takes its inspiration from the iconic Vacheron Constantin reference 6073 from 1956, hence the name FiftySix. The collection was initially presented at the beginning of 2018 and we brought you all the details on the first three watches that were released including the FiftySix Self-Winding here, the FiftySix Day-Date Power Reserve here, and the FiftySix Complete Calendar ref. 4000E with moonphase indicator right here.
Just released at London’s famous Abbey Road Studios —from where we are reporting live and bringing you our live pics— Vacheron Constantin is also announcing an exclusive partnership with this legendary location in music history, where English song-artist Benjamin Clementine —one of the faces of the Maison’s new advertising campaign— is giving a private concert to mark this occasion. Luckily for you, we are one of the few media outlets bringing you a wide selection of live pictures of this new watch.
Things to Know About the Watch
Cased in a 41 mm 5N pink gold case that is relatively slim at 10.9 mm in thickness, the new Vacheron Constantin FiftySix Tourbillon ref. 6000E features a very elegant two-tone opaline-sunburst dial following the design cues of this new collection. The dial features applied 18K gold numerals and markers with superluminova, outer and central railway minute tracks and a stunning tourbillon with Maltese cross shape that is positioned at 6 o'clock to complete the symphony of visual timekeeping elements.
The tourbillon alone called for over a dozen hours of chamfering and other hand-crafted finishing operations. Like a metronome, its 2.5 Hz frequency provides a chance to follow its steady beat as it performs a full rotation every 60 seconds.
The style of the FiftySix collection is a direct tribute to reference 6073 created in 1956. The
distinctive design of this iconic model embodies the creativity of the Maison during the 1950s —a period representing the golden age of watchmaking refinement, as well as the heyday of musical creativity. Round, slim and effortlessly elegant with a stepped construction, the reference 6073 was distinguished by its four lugs each representing a branch of the Maltese cross and so are the new watches part of the FiftySix collection.
With its classic dial, daring case and avant-garde technical characteristics reference 6073 was at the time one of the first watches from Vacheron to be equipped with an automatic movement and a water resistant case. , this 1956 watch wove ties between respect for tradition and a taste for innovation.
Honoring the iconic reference 6073 the new Vacheron Constantin FiftySix collection picks up several features of the original model including the lugs respectively forming one portion of the Maltese cross, a box-type crystal and automatic movements.
The new Vacheron Constantin FiftySix Tourbillon is delivered on a chocolate brown square scales alligator leather strap with calf inner shell and tone-on-tone stitching. The strap is secured by a 18K 5N pink gold folding clasp with half Maltese cross shape. As it is the norm with Vacheron, the double folding clasp is designed in a way where when closed, the strap might appear to be secured by a tang buckle.
The Movement
Beautifully slender at less than 6 mm thick and equipped with a 22K gold peripheral rotor, the in-house calibre 2160 is fully visible via the display case back. This 30-jewel automatic movement with tourbillon is composed of 188 parts and it provides a outstanding power reserve of more than three days —80 hours— while beating at frequency of 18,000 vph. The movement is fully visible via the display case back and is exquisitely finished with Côtes de Genève and bevelling on its bridges.
On the Wrist & Pricing
On the wrist, the new FiftySix Tourbillon wears true to its actual size and with impeccable wrist presence. Without a doubt the new FiftySix Tourbillon is the most prestigious composition in the FiftySix collection to date and the first major complication in its lineup. This new watch will be available exclusively at Vacheron Constantin boutiques as of April 2019.
Sticker Price $113,000 USD. For more info on Vacheron Constantin click here.
