Vacheron Constantin is pursuing its dialogue with collectors and passionate devotees of Haute Horlogerie by enriching its Métiers d’Art The legend of the Chinese zodiac with the sign of the rabbit. Symbolizing graciousness, kindness, and benevolence in traditional Chinese culture, the rabbit will take over from the tiger during the Chinese New Year on January 22, 2023. Two new creations, one in platinum and the other in 18K 5N pink gold issued in a limited edition of 9 pieces each, combine the technical excellence of the Vacheron Constantin in-house Calibre 2460 G4 with the beauty of artistic crafts.

China, a nation with which Vacheron Constantin has been cultivating special ties since 1845, first introduce the paper-cutting technique known as Jianzhi, a popular art echoed in Swiss culture through its famous Scherenschnitt paper-cutting. This artistic approach, highlighted in the Métiers d’Art The legend of the Chinese zodiac, has been given a fresh interpretation thanks to the expertise of the master engravers and enamellers.

The two new Vacheron Constantin Métiers d’Art The legend of the Chinese Zodiac Year of the Rabbit are equipped with 40 mm cases in platinum or in 18K 5N pink gold. The platinum version features a dial in hues of blue, while the pink gold reference features a dial in hues of brown.

Executed in Allied artistic crafts, the vegetal motifs appearing on the dial and based on classic Chinese iconography are etched directly in the metal. The pattern remains semi-embedded and stands out from its gold base by a subtle stage-setting of various accentuating reliefs creating a depth effect. This makes the vegetation appear to be floating over the dial. Then comes the stage of Grand Feu enameling, an ancestral technique that remains the preserve of a very few particularly skilled artisans. By applying the enamel in successive layers, the enamel specialist enhances the intensity of the blue or bronze-toned dial. Achieving the necessary mastery of color and reactions to firing at temperatures between 800 and 900 degrees Celsius calls for expertise that can only be acquired over long years of experience. The animal, made of platinum or pink gold, is hand engraved and delicately applied to the dial center.

Powering these two new watches is the Vacheron Constantin in-house calibre 2460 G4 composed of 237 parts and which creates a distinctive and ideal stage setting for the decorative arts, by giving the central dial motif a starring role. The hands-free time display is achieved through four apertures showing the hours, minutes, days, and dates. These indications —the first two of the dragging variety and the last two of the jumping type— proudly embody the longstanding savoir-faire of the Maison in designing and developing original displays. Clearly visible through the sapphire crystal back of the platinum or pink gold case, the 22K oscillating weight features a decor inspired by the Maltese cross emblem. All movement components are indeed finely finished in accordance with the criteria of the Hallmark of Geneva, a quality label of which Vacheron Constantin is the most faithful representative. The movement provides a power reserve of 40 hours.

Sticker Price $131,000 USD for platinum and $108,000 USD for 18K 5N Pink Gold. For more info on Vacheron Constantin click here.