Vacheron Constantin’s green homage to traditional modernism

By Mike Huynh

The world is changing fast, but for a name that has been around since 1755, honouring a rich tradition is the only key to writing one’s future. 

The new Traditionnelle tourbillon watch from Swiss luxury watchmaker Vacheron Constantin is that statement, a truly contemporary take on a classical design finished in a captivating hue of green. Evoking the perfect alliance between the past and present, the timepiece showcases the Maison’s horological expertise through a tourbillon regulator integrated within the in-house ultra-thin Calibre 2160/1. This innovation in fine watchmaking is further paired with a stunning 950 platinum case and sunburst deep green dial to ensure that the wearer’s wrist will always be the centre of attention in any room. 

Green with envy

Green isn’t a colour that’s commonly found on luxury timepieces, but when they are they’re often accomplished to the highest degree of aesthetics. The green here begins with the aforementioned sunburst dial. It’s an original Vacheron Constatin colour obtained by galvanic treatment resulting in a finish which endows the model with depth and intensity. It’s also the perfect contrast to the white gold baton-type hour markers, Dauphine-style hours and minute hands, and the stunning tourbillon at the 6 o’clock mark. A 41mm platinum case encapsulates the ultra-thin calibre and pairs it with deep green Mississippiensis alligator leather strap complete with an alligator leather inner shell. A 30m water resistance rating is also a welcome feature.    

“The Traditionnelle collection embodies the full measure of Vacheron Constantin’s watchmaking legitimacy”, explains Christian Selmoni, Director of Style and Heritage. “It conveys both history and tradition through precise stylistic codes corresponding to an aesthetic that remains timeless however complex the mechanisms. With this new dial colour, Vacheron Constantin is pursuing its contemporary vision of the classical approach to design.”

Traditional at heart

The beating heart of this striking new timepiece is the ultra-thin self-winding in-house Calibre 2160/1 measuring in at only 5.65 mm thick. On the wrist, this means a case that is only 10.4mm thick to satisfy the golden rules of subtle beauty. 

This thinness is also the result of perfect technical mastery, especially through a calibre that incorporates a tourbillon regulator mechanism designed to compensate for the effects of gravity on the isochronism of the balance spring. With its Maltese cross-shaped carriage bearing the small seconds counter-indicated by a blackened screw, the tourbillon continues this same attention to detail. 

The movement affords a substantial power reserve of 80 hours to ensure precision timekeeping is maintained even when off the wrist for long periods of time. A special movement shouldn’t be hidden and that’s why this one is made entirely visible via the watch’s sapphire crystal caseback. 

Visit Vacheron Constantin for more information.

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